It shall be unlawful, as a normal practice, for any person, firm, or municipal department to top any tree within public right-of-way. Topping is defined as the severe cutting back of limbs to stubs larger than three (3) inches in diameter within the tree's crown to such a degree as to remove the normal canopy and disfigure the tree. 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 exempted from this section at the determination of the Parks & Recreation director or his/her appointed representative. Topping of trees within the public right-of-way shall comply with ANSI A300 pruning standards.
(Amended by Ordinance No. 9690, effective 06-12-2018)