(A) Removal of trees prohibited. Except as provided for in this chapter, it shall be unlawful for any person to remove, injure or destroy any protected tree in the course of construction in the city unless authorized by the city.
(B) Tree removal permit required for all construction. Permits authorizing the removal of trees, unless an emergency, are mandatory for all construction and shall only be issued by the Building Commissioner after review by the City Arborist according to but not limited to the following conditions and may require a certified arborist's opinion:
(1) The tree is injured, diseased, dying or dead;
(2) The tree is a hazard;
(3) Removal of the tree is consistent with good forestry practices according to the arboricultural specification manual;
(4) Mature trees may only be removed by a professional tree removal service that is licensed, bonded and insured holding a current city business license;
(5) Tree topping is prohibited; and
(6) Reasonable efforts have been undertaken in the architectural layout and design of the proposed development/site to minimize tree loss.
(C) Permit application conditions:
(1) An application for a tree removal permit when construction occurs on the site that requires other city permits shall include the reason for the tree removal, prior approval before issuance of other permits, and compliance with § 152.35 of this Code of Ordinances.
(2) On sites where a demolition will occur the following shall apply:
(a) Reason for tree removal;
(b) Tree survey of site;
(c) Tree preservation plan;
(d) Tree replacement plan;
(e) An established tree bank for city owned trees;
(f) Prior approval by the Building Department before issuance of other permits; and
(g) Items (b), (c) and (d) must be prepared by a certified arborist.
(D) There will be no fee for a tree removal permit.
(Ord. O-16-06, passed 7-18-06) Penalty, see § 157.99