Trees in the Verge (Road Yard): What Property Owners Need to Know
Here in Elkins, the green strip between the sidewalk and the street is known as the “verge” or road yard (please glance at the photo above in case it isn’t clear). While this land is within the public right-of-way, its day-to-day care is the responsibility of the adjacent property owner—just as is the case with sidewalks in front of residents’ homes.
This means that if you own or live next to a verge, you’re responsible for maintaining the trees, brush, grass, and any other growth in that space—regardless of who originally planted them. It’s especially important to address trees that are dead, leaning dangerously, blocking visibility, or affecting drainage.
Taking care of your property’s verge helps keep our sidewalks clear, our streets and homes safe, and our neighborhoods appealing for all of us. If a tree becomes hazardous and the property owner does not address the problem, the City of Elkins may need to step in to ensure the work is done. This page shares more details on maintaining the verge; for more information on the City’s rules, you can view the city code as well.
By looking after the verge beside your property, you play a key part in maintaining Elkins’ is a safe community for everyone.
City Hall News: Week of March 15, 2026
Elkins, WV – March 14, 2026: The City of Elkins offers residents and business owners free reflective address numbers. Please don’t let severe weather or darkness hide your home or business if first responders have to arrive on the scene in an […]
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An Update on Garbage and Bulk Item Pickup in Elkins: March & April 2026
Elkins residents who use the City’s sanitation services have benefits beyond weekly garbage collection—including a free monthly bulk item pickup. While the Sanitation Department generally follows a consistent schedule, this hard-working crew occasionally has to adjust it with little notice. These changes […]
Read MoreCity Hall News: Week of March 8, 2026
Elkins, WV – March 8, 2026: The City of Elkins now offers residents and business owners free reflective address numbers. Please don’t let snow, fog, or darkness hide your home or business if first responders have to arrive on the scene in […]
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City of Elkins Approves Multi-Year Sewer Rate Increase to Fund Critical Infrastructure Upgrades
Elkins, WV – March 5, 2026: Following a recommendation from the Elkins Sanitary Board, the Elkins City Council has approved a series of sewer rate increases to be phased in over the next three years. The multi-year adjustment will fund a major […]
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Spring Means a New Series of Tree Talks!
The Elkins Tree Board and Kump Education Center will launch a new Tree Talks Lecture Series on Wednesday, March 4, at 7 p.m., inviting the community to learn more about the region’s Appalachian woodlands and the challenges they face. The free, three-part […]
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Elkins Seeks Ideas from the Public for the 250th Anniversary of the United States’ Independence
*Elkins, WV, February 24, 2026: Mayor Jerry Marco announced today that the City of Elkins will begin planning its official celebration of the United States’ 250th anniversary, known as the Semiquincentennial, culminating on July 4, 2026. This historic milestone presents a unique […]
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