Italian Cypress Spacing: HOA Wrong, Trees Fine

You planted 6 Italian cypress in two rows, 3–4 ft apart. HOA demands removal of front row for “space issues,” but guidelines don’t mention spacing. Cypress is approved.

Growth Reality

• Mature: 60 ft tall, 3 ft wide.
• At 3–4 ft spacing, branches may touch in 10–15 years—forming a dense screen, not a problem.
• Width controllable by light shearing if desired.

HOA Response

• Many HOAs lack horticultural knowledge.
• Get a Certified Arborist (ISA) to write a letter supporting your spacing.
• Contact state urban forester for backup.

Resource

Find an arborist: ISA Find an Arborist

Bottom Line

Your spacing is horticulturally sound. HOA is overreaching. Professional documentation usually resolves it.