No person shall abuse, destroy or mutilate any street tree. Topping, severe pruning, or other inappropriate pruning techniques shall be considered mutilation. Directional pruning or other ISA-approved methods of pruning are allowed and do not constitute mutilation. Any such harm to street trees constitutes an immediate hazard to the public health, safety and welfare of the community and a public nuisance. Upon notice by the city, any person who violates the provisions of this section to the extent that the street tree must be removed or replaced, shall remove and replace the tree to the specifications of the street tree plan and the provisions of this chapter at their own expense. At the owner’s request and cost, the city may provide a tree to the property owner who shall be responsible for all planting and associated work.
(Ord. 2017-005, passed 4-11-17)