(A) A hazard tree is a tree with the structural defects likely to cause failure of all or part of the tree which would strike a target. A target can be a vehicle, building, or a place where people gather such as a park bench, picnic table, street, or backyard.
(B) The city recognizes the following (but not limited to) as seven main types of tree defects: deadwood, cracks, weak branch unions, decay, cankers, root problems, and poor tree architecture. A tree with defects is not hazardous, however, unless some portion of it is within striking distance of a target. The city will authorize immediate action if:
(1) A broken branch or top is lodged in a tree;
(2) A tree is dead;
(3) A branch is dead and of sufficient size to cause injury (this will vary with height and size of branch).
(C) This section refers to street and park trees, and trees on private property if the Park Board feels the hazard may cause damage to a target on public property.
(Ord. 344, passed 2-11-13)