Trees and Building a New Home in Southeast Michigan
Why Trees Come Up Early
On a wooded lot, the trees are often the first design decision of all. They settle where the driveway and the utility lines run as well as the home, so we have them looked at early.
We work alongside your architect or designer. They lead the design. We keep you informed at every step and build it with care.
Trees On Your Lot
Protected Woodland
Some lots sit inside mapped woodland, where tree cutting is reviewed, as it is by a board in West Bloomfield. We confirm with the town whether your lot is inside one before the home is placed.
Large And Landmark Trees
A large tree can matter wherever it stands, like the landmark trees in Ann Arbor. We have the trees on your lot looked at early, so your designer knows which ones the plan works around.
Replacing What Comes Down
Where trees that come down are to be replaced, we include the new planting in the plan from the start.
Trees Along The Street
The trees between the sidewalk and the road belong to the town in most places, as in Dexter and Brighton. We plan the driveway and the utility lines to stay clear of them.
Trees During The Build
A tree can be harmed without being cut, by heavy equipment over its roots or materials piled against it. We keep both away from the trees that are staying.
Near Wetlands And Historic Streets
Trees near a wetland or in a historic district come under a second review. We check for both, and our guides to building near water and historic districts tell you more.
General information, not legal advice. Each town, county and state office decides what applies to a property.
Questions About Trees And Building
Can trees be removed to make room for a new home?
That is settled with the town, tree by tree and lot by lot. We check what applies to your property before any tree is touched.
How do I know which trees on a lot are protected?
It depends on the town, and sometimes on the size and kind of tree. We have the trees on the lot looked at early and confirm with the town.
Who looks after the trees along the street?
In most places they belong to the town. We plan the work to stay clear of them.
Will trees be damaged during construction?
Roots are where the harm happens, so we keep equipment and materials away from the trees that are staying.
Should I think about trees before I buy a lot?
Yes, on a wooded lot they shape the whole design. We walk the lot with you first.
General information, not legal advice.
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