FAQ

Packrats are native to this area and part of the natural ecosystem.  They are also destructive and messy, and we don’t want them near our homes!  SMVE HOA’s goal is to remove packrat nests in common areas within 75 feet of homes, guest parking areas, and completely from the north and south recreation areas.  For background on the packrat problem, our packrat control program, and how to report packrat nests in the Commons, see Oh Rats! and other articles in the Landscape section of this website.

Packrat nests found on the Homeowner’s personal property are the Homeowner’s financial responsibility. The Association takes care of the Commons only.  Home owners may contact the chair of the Landscape Committee for further information.

a) No, homeowners may not trim plants in the common area, but Cherry Landscape can do it for you.  Cherry Landscape is the only agent authorized by the Board to trim vegetation in common areas.

b) If you wish to have Cherry Landscape trim the vegetation in the common area, directly behind your rear patio wall, (at homeowners expense), you need first to set up a consultation with a designated member of the Landscape Committee.  See Tree Trimming Procedure and Forms for a description of the procedure and forms to begin.  See Tree Thinning/Trimming in SMVE for details on Board policy on trimming in the common area and for a description of the one limited circumstance under which a homeowner may trim certain vegetation.