Bill > HB5357

This bill establishes a process for removing trees on state-owned or leased property, or rights-of-way, that are threatening structures on private property. If a private property owner or lessee sends a written request via certified mail to the relevant state agency, detailing the threatening trees and the potential damage to their structure, the state agency has six months to remove the trees at the state's expense. If the state fails to act within this timeframe, the private property owner can then enter the state property to remove the trees themselves, after providing seven days' written notice to the state agency, without incurring liability to the state. Furthermore, the bill outlines a specific, shortened procedure for private property owners to file claims against the state to recover costs associated with removing these trees, provided certain conditions are met, such as the claim not exceeding $10,000 and the state agency concurring with the claim.

Transportation and Infrastructure

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=5357&year=2026&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill