Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of this effort?
This effort is simply public outreach, data collection, and sharing of information with nearby property owners. The goal is to engage as many nearby residents as possible with obstructions on their property and have them complete the online questionnaire.
Who will be responsible for overseeing this project in the future?
The project will be overseen by Citrus County, the owner of Inverness Airport, along with assistance from their consultants.
Why is tree removal necessary?
Any airport that accepts FAA funds for improvement projects is bound by Airport Sponsor Grant Assurances. Specifically, Assurance #20 (Hazard Removal and Mitigation) requires the airport to take appropriate action to ensure that the airspace protecting instrument and visual operations “will be adequately cleared and protected by removing, lowering, relocating, marking, or lighting or otherwise mitigating existing airport hazards and by preventing the establishment or creation of future airport hazards.”
What properties will likely be affected by this future project?
All properties shown within the red, orange, and yellow areas on the website graphic may be affected by the future tree removal project. However, the airport’s priority will be to address the red and orange areas first.
When will this tree removal project occur?
The project timeline can vary from 12 months to three years from now, depending upon whether the FAA requires the airport to complete an Environmental Assessment (EA).
Is the airport planning to acquire nearby properties that currently have multiple obstructions?
No, the airport plans to acquire easements only, not properties.
If a tree is cut down completely, is a stump left behind?
No, typically the stump will be ground down or removed such that the ground is level. In some cases, these projects include a replacement tree of a species that is aesthetically pleasing but has limited vertical growth potential.
Will I, the property owner, be compensated for this effort?
The airport may choose to buy easements for some properties that have obstructions.
Why are my trees suddenly a "hazard" if they've been there for years?
Trees grow slowly, and many only recently reached a height that "penetrates" protected airspace. The airport and the FAA recently completed a study that identified various obstructions on and near the Inverness Airport property.
Can you just trim the tops of the trees instead of removing them?
While "topping" is sometimes possible, the FAA generally discourages it because it is not a permanent solution, can damage tree health, and requires expensive recurring maintenance and repeated access to the property. Full removal with a "low-growth" replacement is the preferred long-term safety option.
Do you have the legal right to enter my property?​
If a recorded avigation easement for the subject property does not exist, we are seeking your voluntary permission and may offer compensation for a new easement and/or the loss of the vegetation.
Will removing these trees make it noisier at my property?
Trees generally provide a visual screen rather than a significant acoustic barrier. However, we understand the concern for privacy and can discuss replanting lower-growing species that will provide a visual buffer without interfering with flight paths.
What happens if I refuse to allow the removal?
Obstructions can lead to the cancellation of certain flight procedures or the shortening of usable runway lengths, which impacts airport utility. The county prefers to work collaboratively with property owners to reach an agreement that satisfies both safety needs and property interests. If necessary, eminent domain proceedings can be used to acquire an easement to access properties for tree topping or removal.
Will I have to pay out of pocket for the tree removal or trimming?
No. If an agreement is reached to remove or trim a tree on your property to clear the protected airspace, Citrus County will cover the financial costs.
What exactly is an "avigation easement"?
An avigation easement is a specific type of legal agreement between a property owner and the airport. It grants the airport the right of flight in the airspace above the property and ensures that the airspace remains clear of hazards. While it does not give the airport ownership of your land, the agreement requires that the owner allow access to the property for tree removal. Additionally, the owner is legally restricted from building any structure or adding any tree that may affect approaches to the nearby runway to maintain a safe flight path.
How do I know if my property is in a red, orange, or yellow area?
You can view the project map by visiting www.safeapproachinf.com. The map highlights obstructions in red, orange, and yellow to indicate the priority areas where airspace penetrations have been identified.
How will the project handle environmental concerns, such as trees located in wetlands or those containing protected wildlife?
Before any work begins, the project team will evaluate properties for sensitive features like wetlands or protected wildlife. All tree removal will strictly comply with state and federal environmental regulations to minimize impacts and protect local habitats.
What happens after I complete the online survey?
All survey responses will be compiled into a report that will be submitted to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The FAA will then review this information to determine whether an Environmental Assessment (EA) is required before the project can proceed to the obstruction removal phase.
Will anyone need to physically come onto my property right now?
No. This current phase of the project is strictly focused on public outreach. Our goal right now is to share information, make the community aware of the airspace obstructions, and collect your valuable feedback through the survey.
I want to talk to someone about this. Are there public meetings?
Yes, there are upcoming informational public meetings. Join us in person or online to learn more about the project:
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In-Person Meetings: April 22nd and May 12th Open House from 4:00pm – 7:00pm
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Location: Lakes Region Library, 1511 Druid Road, Inverness, FL 34452
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Virtual Meeting: June 25th from 6:00pm – 7:00pm
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Access: Provided via a Microsoft Teams link available at www.safeapproachinf.com
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Note: Meeting dates and times are subject to change due to severe weather.