(A) Application for a permit request by this section shall be reviewed by the city that may include a visual inspection of the site. The city shall upon visual inspection of the tree determine whether requested tree(s) meet removal or if relocation is more beneficial than removal, the city may require the property owner to relocate the tree at the owner's expense.
(B) The city shall as a condition of the issuance of a tree removal permit require replacement tree(s) for canopy replacement at the property owner's expense.
(C) The following conditions must be proven to the city to issue a tree removal or relocation permit:
(1) The tree unreasonably restricts the permitted use of the property.
(2) A proposed development cannot be located on the site without tree removal.
(3) The property owner has made every reasonable effort to incorporate existing trees in the development project and to minimize the number of trees removed.
(4) The tree is significantly damaging existing structures and cannot be mitigated through proper arboricultural practices or reasonable modifications to the property.
(5) The tree interferes with utility services and cannot be mitigated through proper arboricultural practices.
(6) The tree creates an on-going safety problem for the existing development and cannot be mitigated through proper arboricultural practices.
(7) The tree is obstructing safe sightlines.
(8) The tree is growing too close in proximity to another more valuable tree(s) to permit normal growth and development of the affected tree(s).
(9) The tree is of poor quality and condition but is not considered a hazardous tree.
(10) It is in the public interest and welfare that the tree be removed for a reason other than set forth herein.
(D) All tree replacements or relocations shall be completed within six months of the permit issuance unless the property owner receives written notification from the city granting an extension.
(Ord. 2021-02, adopted 3-17-21; sought to be reconsidered, Commission passed 4-21-2021)