(a) Any tree or shrub growing on private property which overhangs a public street or sidewalk shall be kept trimmed by the property owner so as to allow a minimum of eight feet clearance where it overhangs the sidewalk and fifteen feet where it overhangs the street.
(b) Any tree growing on private property which projects into the City right of way, which hinders or obstructs the view of motorists or pedestrians using the public right of way, shall be kept trimmed or removed by the property owner to correct such view hindrance or obstruction as determined by the Safety Service Director in accordance with provisions as set forth by the Codified Ordinances of the City of Chillicothe.
(c) Utility companies shall adhere to established guidelines as recommended by the National Arborists Association for line clearance work, and shall conform to the most current standards set forth by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI Z133.1, ANSI A300). These guidelines shall include, but are not limited to, side trimming and crown reduction, tree removal, brushing, and chemical brush control and appropriate precautions. Utility companies shall provide the Safety Service Director a semi-annual tree maintenance work schedule for all tree care activity within the City. Utility companies and the contractors therefor shall conform to all licensing requirements set forth in this Chapter.
(d) It shall be unlawful as a normal proactive for any person, firm or city department to top any street tree, park tree or other tree on public property without prior permission of the City Tree Commission or Safety Service Director. Trees severely damaged by storms or other causes, or certain trees under utility wires or other obstructions where other pruning practices are impractical may be exempt from this ordinance at the determination of the City Tree Commission.
(e) All stumps of street and park trees shall be removed twelve inches below the surface of the ground. Stumps shall be removed or ground at the site. All residual material shall be removed from the site at the time the tree is removed.
(Ord. 123-00. Passed 11-13-00.)