10-2-6: REMOVING PUBLIC TREES:
Before removing a public tree or trees, a private individual must obtain permission from the city to do so. The application for a permit to remove a public tree or trees shall address the following items:
   A.   Whether the tree is harboring injurious pests or diseases to the extent that it is a potential hazard to the Hayden community forest.
   B.   Whether the tree constitutes an irresolvable public safety hazard, including, but not limited to, interfering with overhead utility lines, obstructing the vision of a motor vehicle operator, or potentially breaking or falling and causing injury to humans or property damage.
   C.   Any other factor deemed to be in the public interest.
   D.   Any tree(s) removed without prior permission or for the convenience of the abutting landowner must be replaced by the party responsible for its removal with a tree(s) of equivalent value in a location(s) approved by the city. In the event no appropriate planting location can be identified at time of removal, equivalent replacement value of the tree(s) shall be paid to city and placed in trust to be used for future tree planting. See "Hayden Tree Standards Manual" for methods of determining equivalent value. Additionally, any person responsible for unauthorized removal of a public tree or who receives approval to remove a public tree for the convenience of the abutting landowner shall be financially responsible to the city for the value of the tree removed. Any such funds shall be dedicated to community forest improvement.
The city administrator or the administrator's designee will evaluate the application before issuing a permit. During the evaluation process, advice may be sought from a certified arborist, if necessary. (Ord. 332, 12-16-2002)