Mecklenburg County leaders, advocates push back against tree cutting for billboards

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WBTV) - Community advocates and Mecklenburg County leaders are calling on billboard companies to consult with neighbors before cutting down trees to make their signs more visible.

The push for change follows tree cutting in Plaza Midwood, where an entire line of trees was removed near a billboard. Advocates are warning other neighborhoods could see similar projects.

State Sen. Caleb Theodros said 40 projects by Adams Outdoor and Lamar Advertising have already been approved across Mecklenburg County.

Under a change included in the state budget passed in July, billboard companies can pay $400 to clear up to 500 feet of vegetation.

Previously, the same work could have cost thousands of dollars. The projects require approval from the North Carolina Department of Transportation.

---> Also Read: ‘Incredibly disappointing’: Plaza Midwood tree clearing for billboard sparks outrage

Sustain Charlotte advocates and local leaders raised concerns at a news conference about the environmental impact of tree removal and the lack of community input.

They called on the companies to speak with neighbors before cutting trees in their communities.

Blue markings identify dogwood trees at the Plaza Midwood site. Advocates say those trees have legal protections, while other trees do not necessarily have the same protections.

They said eight dogwoods were marked, but only three are left which could lead to legal issues.

WBTV reached out to Lamar Advertising and Adams Outdoor for comment.

Neither company had responded at the time of reporting.

---> Also Read: South Charlotte neighbors fight to save 100-year-old live oak trees from removal