If the director or the body having final authority over a development application grants a tree removal permit, then the director or body shall include a condition that the removed trees be replaced as follows:
A. On-site. For every six inches in DBH removed, a new 15 gallon tree shall be planted on-site. Replacement trees shall be of similar species, unless otherwise approved by the urban forest manager, and shall be placed in areas dedicated for tree plantings. New plantings’ survival shall be ensured for three years after the date of planting and shall be verified by the applicant upon request by the director. If any replacement trees die or fail within the first three years of their planting, then the applicant shall pay an in-lieu fee as established by a fee schedule adopted by the City Council.
B. Off-site. If it is not feasible or desirable to plant replacement trees on-site, payment of an in-lieu fee as established by a fee schedule adopted by the City Council shall be required.
Replacement trees shall not receive credit as satisfying shade or street tree requirements otherwise mandated by this code. Removal of a Heritage Tree that has been so designated by the City Council pursuant to Chapter 16.68, that is removed pursuant to a tree removal permit, shall be exempt from this section.
(Ord. 2402)