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.
Snow Plowing in Elkins: How Does it Work? Please Read These FAQs
While snowfall paints a stellar winter picture in Elkins, we recognize it can also cause anxiety about road conditions and travel. To address your concerns, here is an overview of the City’s snow plowing priorities and timeline. Knowing the plan helps us […]
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Regional Task Force Announces Warming Station Opening, Plans Public Forum on Critical Challenges
Elkins, WV, January 27, 2026 — The Regional Task Force on Homelessness, Addiction, and Mental Health held its first meeting of the year on January 22, 2026. It highlighted urgent winter shelter operations, upcoming community events, and new initiatives aimed at helping […]
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Sanitation & Street Departments Updates, Jan. 26
The following is a Monday morning message from the City of Elkins Operations Manager. Street Department: Crews have been plowing and treating roads since 2 a.m. on Sunday. The initial 10-person crew worked in shifts and operated at full strength Sunday afternoon […]
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City Hall News: Week of January 25, 2026
Elkins, WV, January 24, 2026: A faith-based coalition has opened a warming station at 110 3rd Street in downtown Elkins. For more information, please visit their Facebook page by searching for “Randolph County Warming Station.” For more information on how to volunteer […]
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New Community Coalition to Provide Warming Station Services
As winter temperatures drop and another large snowstorm approaches Elkins, we would like to let residents know about a vital community-led effort to provide temporary warming stations for residents in need during periods of extreme cold. Given the critical need for a safe, warm, and comfortable space for our most vulnerable residents, the Randolph County Warming […]
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Preventing and Addressing Frozen Pipes in Elkins
The extremely cold temperatures we’re experiencing this week can leave you and your loved ones without water and lead to costly property damage from burst pipes. The City of Elkins Water Department encourages all residents to take simple, preventive steps during severe […]
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