(A) The purpose of this subchapter is to regulate the planting, maintenance, and removal of trees (diseased and healthy) on municipally owned public property and rights-of-way within the city and on municipally owned property wherever located. In order to protect and conserve trees on public property and rights-of-way, this subchapter provides for the pruning, treatment, and removal of trees and shrubs as is deemed necessary by the City Council or a person acting under the authority of the City Council. This subchapter is also intended to provide for the trimming or removal of trees on public land when they obscure street lights, interfere with utility lines, or constitute a hazard to pedestrian or vehicular traffic, or otherwise endanger the public health, safety, or welfare.
(B) Another purpose of this subchapter is to encourage the protection of trees and express the city's intent to use trees to create a more natural and amenable human environment. This would include the protection of regulated (historic and heritage) trees. This subchapter is not intended to be punitive nor to cause hardship to any person who uses the utmost care and diligence to protect trees within the city or on city property.
(Ord. 18-30, passed 9-4-18; Am. Ord. 21-26, passed 7-12-21)
Cross-reference:
Damaging trees and plants, see § 82.13