Title
Heritage Tree Code Amendments OCMC 12.32
Body
RECOMMENDED ACTION (Motion):
Review and discuss.
BACKGROUND:
See attachments. Staff has prepared revisions to the heritage tree code based on input from the NRC. The intent of the revisions is to simplify the process for the voluntary nomination and designation of heritage trees.
This version of the code includes:
- Removal of the requirement to provide a certified arborist report regarding tree condition.
- Owner consent is required in all situations.
- A tree mitigation table indicating the number of replacement trees required if a heritage tree is removed.
- Added sentence that native heritage trees must be replaced with heritage trees.
One thing we need to discuss is whether any protection should be required for newly replaced heritage trees in the event the original tree is removed due to death, disease, or other causes.
The City Commission may at their discretion choose to require an arborist report prior to final designation, however, this would not be a codified requirement.