City Council amends tree ordinance to expedite removal of hazardous trees

In a recent special meeting of the Natural Resources & Environmental Commission in South Pasadena, California, city officials discussed significant amendments to the tree management ordinance aimed at enhancing public safety and streamlining processes for tree removal and trimming. The proposed changes are designed to exempt the city and its contractors from the requirement to obtain permits for the removal or trimming of hazardous trees, which pose immediate risks to public safety. This exemption is expected to facilitate timely action on trees that could potentially cause harm, as well as to prevent delays in capital improvement projects.

One of the key points raised during the meeting was the capping of replacement fees for illegally removed trees. Currently, the ordinance doubles the replacement requirement for illegal removals, which could lead to excessive penalties. Officials acknowledged the need for clarity on how these caps would apply in such cases, emphasizing that the focus should be on the number of trees rather than the legality of their removal.

The discussion also highlighted the importance of preserving the city’s tree canopy. Officials noted that while the ordinance allows for expedited tree management, the city remains committed to finding alternatives to tree removal whenever possible. For instance, a recent project involved creating a bulb-out design to accommodate a tree's roots while still meeting accessibility requirements for sidewalks.

To further support the revised ordinance, the commission plans to develop a guideline checklist to streamline the permitting process for residents. This checklist will provide clear criteria for tree trimming and removal, helping residents navigate the application process more effectively.

Overall, the meeting underscored the city’s proactive approach to managing its urban forest while balancing public safety and environmental stewardship. As these amendments move forward, the commission aims to ensure that both city contractors and residents understand the new guidelines and their implications for tree management in South Pasadena.