The city council finds that trees are a signature of the city and are an important element in promoting the well-being of the citizens of Sacramento. The city council finds that, when proper arboricultural practices are applied, trees enhance the natural scenic beauty of the city; increase oxygen levels; promote ecological balance; provide natural ventilation and air filtration; provide temperature and erosion controls; increase property values; and improve the quality of life. The city council also finds and determines that it is in the public interest to protect and manage tree resources within the city in order to preserve and maintain the benefits that they provide to the community. The purpose of this chapter is to provide for the conservation of existing tree resources; to optimize tree canopy coverage throughout the city while recognizing individual rights to develop and make reasonable use of private property consistent with the general plan; and to provide clear stand-ards for protection, removal, and replacement of city trees and private protected trees. (Ord. 2016-0026 § 4)