A. Purpose. Washington City recognizes and attributes substantial economic, environmental and aesthetic value to the trees and other plantings within the community. It is in the best interests of the citizens and public that a plan be developed to standardize the planting and maintenance of trees within easements, in rights-of-way and all other public places within the City.
B. Intent. It is the intent of the Washington City Council that the terms of this chapter shall be construed as to promote:
1. The planning, planting, maintenance, restoration, protection and survival of desirable trees within the City; and,
2. The protection of community residents from personal injury and property damage, and the protection of Washington City from property damage caused or threatened by the improper planting, maintenance, or removal of trees located in and upon public areas and rights-of-way within Washington City.
If any provision or clause of this chapter or application thereof to any person or entity or circumstance is held to be unconstitutional or otherwise invalid by any court of competent jurisdiction, such invalidity shall not affect other sections, provisions, clauses or applications thereof which can be implemented without the invalid provision(s), clause(s) or application(s) hereof, and to this end the provisions and clauses of this chapter are declared to be severable.
This chapter shall take effect immediately upon publication or posting, as required by law. (Ord. 2022-09, 3-9-2022)