1177.03 DEFINITIONS.

   For the purposes of this chapter, the following definitions shall apply:

   (a)   "Tree" means a self-supporting woody plant characterized by one main trunk or, for certain species, multiple trunks, with a potential at maturity for a trunk diameter of two (2) inches and potential minimum height of ten (10) feet.

   (b)   “Diameter/Diameter-breast-height" (d.b.h.) means the diameter of any tree trunk, measured at 4-1/2 feet above average grade. For species of trees whose normal growth habit is characterized by multiple stems (e.g. hazelnut, vine maple) diameter shall mean the average diameter of all stems of the tree, measured at a point six inches from the point where the stems digress from the main trunk. In no case shall a branch more than six inches above average grade be considered a stem. For the purposes of enforcement, if a tree has been removed and only the stump remains, the size of the tree shall be the diameter of the top of the stump.

   (c)   "Removal" means removal of a tree(s), through either direct or indirect actions including, but not limited to, clearing, cutting, causing irreversible damage to roots or trunks; poisoning; destroying the structural integrity; and/or filling, excavation, grading, or trenching in the dripline area of a tree which has the potential to cause irreversible damage to the tree, or relocation of an existing tree to a new planting location.

   (d)   “Excessive pruning" means pruning more than six years of branch growth, unless necessary to restore the vigor of the tree or to protect life and property.

   (e)   “Timbering, Logging or Commercial Cutting" means the cutting of trees bearing a trunk diameter of not less than nine inches measured at a distance of fourteen inches above ground level.

   (f)   “Clearcutting" means the removal of trees and other vegetation from a site in preparation of the development of same.

      (Ord. 32-2012. Passed 12-12-12.)

   (g)   Each tree removed in violation of this Chapter shall be considered a separate and independent offense.
(Ord. 2016-7-10. Passed 9-13-16.)