(a) The Tree Commission and/or Director of Public Service or designee shall develop and maintain a list of appropriate, allowable trees to be planted along streets in three size classes based upon mature height: small (under 15 feet); medium (15 to 40 feet); and large trees (over 40 feet). Efforts shall be made to ensure a sufficient diversity of tree species in each size class. A list of trees not suitable for planting in general or near utility lines will also be created by the Tree Commission and/or Director of Public Service or designee in consultation with arborists and affected entities.
(b) The minimum spacing of street trees will be in accordance with the tree size classes listed in paragraph (a), and no trees may be planted closer together than the following: small trees, 15 feet; medium trees, 25 feet; and large trees 35 feet; except in special plantings approved by the Tree Commission and/or Director of Public Service or designee.
(c) The distance trees may be planted from curbs or curblines and sidewalks will be in accordance with the tree size classes listed in paragraph (a), and no trees may be planted closer than three (3) feet to the road face of any curb or within 2.5 feet of a sidewalk for small trees. Larger trees will require larger spacing as determined by the Director of Public Service or designee. These distance requirements may be extended out up to twenty (20) feet where overhead utility lines are present pursuant to the guidelines of the Tree Commission and/or Director of Public Service or designee.
(d) No street tree shall be planted within thirty-five (35) feet of any street corner, measured from the point of nearest intersecting curbs or curblines. No street tree shall be planted nearer than ten (10) feet to any fire hydrant or water shut-off valve.
(e) No tree shall be planted in the area known as a tree lawn or devil strip that is smaller than five (5) feet in width.
(f) A waiver may be requested from the Director of Public Service regarding (a) through (e) of this Section. The Director will confer with staff professionals and render a decision. (Ord. 165-2018. Passed 7-30-18.)