Any person desiring to destroy or remove a heritage tree on private or public property must first obtain a removal permit by applying writing to the Director for such a permit. Within seven days of receipt of the application, the Director shall inspect the premises whereon the heritage trees are located, and shall issue an intended decision in writing as to whether or not the application will be approved, with or without conditions; provided, however, that failure to render an intended decision within such period shall not be deemed approval. The intended decision of the Director shall be based upon reasonable standards, including, but not limited to, the following:
(A) The condition of the heritage tree with respect to its general health, status as a public nuisance, danger of falling, proximity to existing or proposed structures, interference with utility services and its status as host for plant, pest or disease endangering other species of trees or plants with infection or infestations.
(B) The necessity of the requested action to allow construction of improvements or otherwise allow economic or other reasonable enjoyment of property.
(C) The topography of the land and the effect of the requested action on soil retention, water retention and diversion or increased flow of surface waters.
(D) The number, species, size and location of existing trees in the area and the effect of the requested action on shade areas, air pollution, historic values, scenic beauty and the general welfare of the city as a whole.
(E) Good forestry practices such as, but not limited to, the number of healthy trees the subject parcel of land will support. In the intended decision on an application for a permit, the Director may attach reasonable conditions to insure compliance with the stated purposes of this chapter, such as, but not limited to, a condition requiring up to two replacement trees from 15-gallon containers or larger, in a suitable location as substitutes for the removed tree or trees, at the sole expense of the applicant. Any such intended decision shall include a statement for the reasons for the decision.
(1995 Code, § 8.52.030)