Draft code would allow $200 fee-in-lieu when street trees are not replaced
Summary
The municipal code audit proposes a fee-in-lieu of $200 when a removed street tree cannot be replanted within the right-of-way or the front setback; fee revenue would go to a street tree fund for planting elsewhere in the city and council can set the amount.
Staff told the commission the municipal code audit clarifies triggers for permits and professional standards and proposes a fee-in-lieu when replacement within the right-of-way or front setback is infeasible. "The proposed fee is $200 that that property owner would pay to the city into our street fund as a fee in lie of not planting that tree," staff said, explaining the city would use the fund to plant appropriate street trees elsewhere.
Commissioners raised concerns about the fairness and permanence of the fee, whether it could rise over time, and whether it meets homeowner expectations. Staff noted the code grants council authority to set or change the fee and said the fee is intended to support the street tree fund and targeted plantings where canopy is needed.
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