Planning 2017-11-16 - TMC 18.54 TREE REGULATIONS WORK SESSION

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INFORMATIONAL MEMO Page 2 No change is proposed to the size of a significant tree, which is four inches in diameter, measured at breast height (DBH) or the number of trees that can be removed from a single- family lot, which is four (4) in a three-year period as long as the trees are between 4-8" in diameter. Among the code changes recommended by the Advisory Committee are: • A no -fee Tree Inventory Survey for the removal of 1-4 trees on a single-family property improved with a single-family dwelling. This will allow the City to track the number of trees removed each year to gauge whether the Comprehensive Plan goal of maintaining 47% tree canopy in single-family residential is being met. • No tree removal on vacant lots prior to approval of a development proposal. • Removal of more than 4 trees in a 3 -year period would require a permit (fee required) and possibly an arborist's report, and replacement either on-site or payment into the tree fund. This is the same as the current code, except for requiring an arborist report at the Director's discretion. • As part of development such as a short plat or subdivision, tree protection is required for trees that are retained. Trees that are removed must be replaced based on a sliding scale based on the tree canopy lost. • Alterations may be required to the layout of development to preserve trees on-site (this same language is found in the shoreline regulations). • Exceptional trees, those over 18 -inches DBH, cannot be removed without an arborist report and a tree permit. Replacement at the appropriate ratio would be required. • A Heritage Tree program is proposed to recognize trees that are exceptional in size, or have historical significance to the community etc. The property owner must agree to the designation of a Heritage Tree for a tree on their property. • Similar to the landscaping code — the violations section is expanded and penalties are proposed for the removal of trees without a permit • The Tree Replacement Fund is codified and uses of funds specified. RECOMMENDATION This memorandum and the accompanying work session sets the stage for the public hearing that will be held on December 14, 2017 on the proposed revisions. ATTACHMENTS A. Draft revisions to Definitions, TMC 18.06 in strikeout/underline format showing staff proposed changes and Advisory Committee revisions. B. Draft revisions to TMC 18.54, Tree Regulations, in Strikeout/Underline form. This version shows the current Chapter 18.54 with both staff proposed changes and Advisory Committee changes. C. Draft revisions to TMC 18.54, Tree Regulations, with the staff proposed changes accepted, Advisory Committee revisions shown in strikeout/underline. D. Current TMC 18.54. E. Urban Forestry Comprehensive Plan Goals and Policies. CL 11/6/2017 2:28 PM 154t2harepoint\Long Range Planning12016-2017 Landscape & Tree Code Update\Tree Code\Planning Commission PC Info Memo 11-16-17