QUESTION: Our board is concerned about the uproar when we hint at
removing pines and eucalyptus trees that pose a fire hazard along the perimeter
of a canyon. The trees are on community property and are the responsibility of
the HOA. In the event of a fire, the canyon will act as a chimney engulfing the
trees and spreading to the houses. The fire department has recommended that
we remove this threat.
ANSWER: That's not even a close call. In light of
the loss of over 1,000 homes in Southern California a week ago from fast-moving
wildfires, prudence dictates following the advice of the fire department. People love
trees and will fight the board to prevent them from being removed, until their
homes are destroyed by fire, at which point they will sue the board for not
removing the trees.
ASSISTANCE: Associations needing legal assistance can
contact us.
To stay current with issues affecting community associations, subscribe to the
Davis-Stirling Newsletter.