Tree removal in Hampton Cove

Hampton Cove fills the coves on the far side of Monte Sano, between Green Mountain and Keel Mountain near the Flint River. It has grown since 1992 into about 2,000 homes across 20 neighborhoods, and it is part of the City of Huntsville.

What Hampton Cove jobs usually look like

• Hillside trees. Lots on the mountain slopes often have big hardwoods above or below the house. Trees on a slope lean downhill and usually have to come down in sections with a climber or a crane, which costs more than a flat-yard job.
• Trees left from the original woods. Many neighborhoods were cut out of forest, and the tall trees kept along lot lines and backyards now catch wind on one side. Watch for new leans, dead tops and roots lifting after heavy rain.
• Trees by the lakes and creeks. Hampton Cove has dozens of small lakes plus Big Cove Creek. Trees on wet banks tend to lean toward the water and can uproot in a storm.
• Backyards against preserve or common land. Homes that back up to the Hays Nature Preserve, a greenway or neighborhood common area often have trees right on the line. Make sure the tree is actually on your lot before anyone cuts it.

Permits and neighborhood rules

Because Hampton Cove is part of Huntsville, the city's rules apply: there is no city permit for removing a tree on your own residential lot, but trees in the public right-of-way go through the city arborist. The bigger question is usually your neighborhood. Check your covenants or ask the Hampton Cove Owners Association whether a large tree needs approval first, and leave trees on common areas or the golf course to the association. See Huntsville tree rules for who to call.

Debris and power lines

• Debris. The City of Huntsville does not pick up debris from a contractor's work, so make sure your quote includes hauling the wood away. For limbs you cut yourself, the city asks for pieces no longer than 5 feet, stacked behind the curb by 7 a.m. on pickup day. Questions go to Sanitation at 256-883-3964.
• Power lines. For a tree touching a line, call Huntsville Utilities first. Crews will not work on it until the line is cleared.

What it costs

Flat-yard removals usually land in the typical Huntsville range of about $280 to $1,230. Hillside trees, trees over the house and jobs that need a crane cost more. See the cost guide.

Common questions

Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Hampton Cove?

Hampton Cove is part of Huntsville, which does not require a permit for a tree on your own residential lot. Check your neighborhood covenants or the Hampton Cove Owners Association first, and leave trees on common areas or the golf course to the association.

Will the City of Huntsville haul away my tree debris?

Not if a tree company cut it. The city does not collect debris from a contractor's work, so make sure your quote includes hauling. For limbs you cut yourself, keep pieces under 5 feet and stack them behind the curb.

Why does removing a tree on a slope cost more?

Trees on a slope lean downhill and usually can't be dropped in one piece, so crews take them down in sections with a climber or a crane. Mention the slope when you ask for a quote.