(A) The city, believing that trees and the urban forest have a profound effect on the quality of life in the community, deems it necessary and desirable in the interest of public health, safety and the general welfare to enact this chapter for the preservation, planting, care, replacement and safe removal of trees and shrubbery located on city property and rights of way without denying the reasonable use and enjoyment of real property.
(B) It is the purpose of this chapter to promote and regulate the planting of new trees and shrubbery; to vigorously encourage the management and protection of existing trees and shrubbery, including their root systems; to regulate the preservation, replacement and removal of trees and to enhance the quality of life through sustainable urban forest practices and increase the benefits that trees provide, including, but not limited to, the following:
(1) Absorption of carbon dioxide and returning of oxygen;
(2) Enhancement of property values;
(3) Improvement of storm water runoff;
(4) Increase knowledge and job opportunities in the area of urban forestry;
(5) Maintenance and improvement of the city’s appearance;
(6) Prevention of damage to property and person;
(7) Provision of shade for cooling;
(8) Reduction of soil erosion and the increase of rainwater infiltration; and
(9) Screening of noise, dust and glare
(C) This chapter provides full power and authority over all trees, plants and shrubbery located within the city’s right-of-way, and all parks, cemeteries and other public grounds owned by the city; and to trees, plants and shrubs located on private property that constitute a hazard or threat to public property or public welfare.
(Ord. 08116, passed 11-24-2008)