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.
National Police Week May 10-16, 2026 and Peace Officers Memorial Day May 15, 2026 Proclamation
The City of Elkins will join communities across the nation in recognizing National Police Week from May 10–16, 2026, and Peace Officers Memorial Day on May 15, 2026, through a proclamation issued by Mayor Marco honoring the service and sacrifice of law enforcement […]
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Apraxia Awareness Day
Today, the Mayor was joined by the Valentine family to proclaim May 14th as Apraxia Awareness Day in Elkins. Childhood apraxia of speech (CAS) is a very misunderstood and very challenging speech disorder that affects 1-in-1,000 children. Now going into its […]
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Introducing Elkins’ #America250 Mascots: Sammy and Lynyrd
Elkins, WV — May 11, 2026: Lynyrd, a handsome bald eagle, and Sammy, as in Uncle Sam, have already made their mark as Elkins’ #America250 mascots. So far, they’ve visited Davis & Elkins College, Ramps & Rails, Sutton (in honor of Elkins’ City […]
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Grant from City of Elkins Helps Fund Children’s Programs at Elkins-Randolph County Public Library
Elkins, WV — May 11, 2026: On a summer weekday morning inside the Elkins-Randolph County Public Library, a pair of small hands reaches for a picture book during Tot Time. Later that week, a young elementary school student beams as she learns […]
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City Hall News: Week of May 10, 2026
Elkins, WV — May 9, 2026: City Hall offices will be closed Tuesday, May 12, due to the West Virginia Primary Election. There will be no changes to the garbage collection schedule. Sign Up for Emergency Alerts Elkins City Hall asks residents […]
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City Hall Closed May 12 and 25, 2026: Updates on Services
Elkins, WV — May 6, 2026: Elkins City Hall will be closed on two dates this month. Tuesday, May 12: City Hall offices will be closed because of the West Virginia Primary Election. The City’s garbage collection schedule will not be affected. […]
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