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 February 8, 2026
Elkins, WV – February 8, 2026: Given the ongoing winter storms, remember to help our first responders help you. City Hall continues to ask residents and business owners to sign up for emergency text alerts. Anyone using a mobile phone can receive […]
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First Fridays are Back in Downtown Elkins!
First Fridays have returned to the Elkins community, bringing renewed energy and excitement to downtown! Beginning Friday, February 6, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., residents and visitors are invited to gather with friends and family to experience all that downtown Elkins has […]
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National Girls & Women in Sports Day – What It Means To Senator Nation
Today is National Girls & Women in Sports Day (NGWSD). We’d like to commemorate this special day by going directly to the best spokeswomen possible: The proud young women who represent Davis & Elkins College and Senator Nation. We asked what athletics […]
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Mayor Marco Issues CHD Awareness Week Proclamation
Elkins, WV, February 4, 2026: Today, Mayor Jerry Marco issued a proclamation recognizing Congenital Heart Disease Awareness Week, which starts on February 7 and ends on February 14. This week in February, which national organizations including the Children’s Heart Foundation, the Centers […]
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Preventing and Addressing Frozen Pipes in Elkins
Update: As of Monday, February 2, the Water Department has experienced a high volume of calls because of the extremely cold temperatures. The Facebook post is here. Please understand that if your pipes have burst or frozen, know that there will be […]
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Free Monthly Life Skills Classes in Elkins Launch with Income Tax Prep Workshop
This Friday, community advocates and PRSS-certified professionals Samantha Ryan and Markie Jeffries are launching a series of free monthly life skills classes for Elkins residents. The first workshop will focus on income tax preparation basics, offering clear, helpful guidance for anyone who […]
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