The San Francisco Urban Forestry Ordinance is enacted to further the following public purposes:
(a) To realize the optimum public benefits of trees on the City's streets and public places, including favorable modification of microclimates, abatement of air and noise pollution, reduction of soil erosion and runoff, enhancement of the visual environment, and promotion of community pride;
(b) To integrate street planting and maintenance with other urban elements and amenities, including but not limited to utilities, vehicular and pedestrian traffic, and enhancement of views and solar access;
(c) To promote efficient, cost effective management of the City's urban forest by coordinating public and private efforts within a comprehensive and professional management system;
(d) To reduce the public hazard, nuisance, and expense occasioned by improper tree selection, planting, and maintenance;
(e) To provide for the creation of an equitable, sustained, and reliable means of funding urban-forest management throughout the City;
(f) To create and maintain a unified urban-forest resource, enhancing the City's overall character and sense of place.
(g) To recognize that trees are an essential part of the City's aesthetic environment and that the removal of important trees should be addressed through appropriate public participation and dialogue, including the California Environmental Quality Act (Public Resources Code Sections 21000 et seq.).
(h) To recognize that green spaces are vital to San Francisco's quality of life as they provide a range of environmental benefits and bring beauty to our neighborhoods and commercial districts.
(i) To ensure that landscaping in sidewalk areas is properly constructed and maintained in order to maximize environmental benefits, protect public safety, and limit conflicts with infrastructure.
(Added by Ord. 165-95, App. 5/19/95; amended by Ord. 17-06, File No. 051458, App. 1/20/2006; Ord. 121-06, File No. 060142, App. 6/14/2006)