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Kingston tree commission approves multiple removal and pruning permits, requires replacements and DPW permits
Summary
The Tree Commission approved site-specific removals and pruning at several addresses, instructed replacement plantings or city planting where space allows, and reiterated standard conditions including stump grinding, material requirements and DPW permits.
The Kingston Tree Commission approved a series of removal and pruning permits at Tuesday’s meeting, covering at least five properties and several public‑right‑of‑way trees. For tree removals the commission applied its standard conditions — stump grinding to six inches below grade, root removal where they affect the sidewalk, repair in bluestone or concrete and a DPW permit for sidewalk work — and required replacement planting or, in referral cases, city planting if the tree is not treated as an asset.
Highlights included:
- 10 Broom Street: Staff reported the tree had roughly 50 percent dead crown and trunk decay with repeated reports of droppings. The commission moved to require removal with standard conditions and a replacement tree or fund payment; the motion passed unanimously.
- 9496 Greenhill: A large street tree on a narrow right of way had many dead branches. The commission approved removal with standard replacement conditions and discussed potential for the city to plant a replacement if appropriate.
- 193 Green Hill: A pruning permit for limbs near power lines on a honey locust was approved with the commission’s recommendation of utility pruning limited to no more than 30 percent of the living crown and keeping structural integrity.
- Wilbur/Dunning/Abbeel intersection cluster: Two trees (a blue spruce and a Norway maple) were recommended for removal and replanting; a black walnut near utility lines was recommended for targeted pruning limited to utility clearance (no more than 30 percent of the living crown). The commission approved removing two trees and replanting two replacements and pruning the walnut.
- 42 Westbrook Place and related follow-ups: The commission upheld prior approvals for storm‑damaged trees and permitted pruning for urgent damage the homeowner reported after a windstorm.
During discussion, staff and commissioners repeatedly emphasized consideration of underground utilities, possible fire hydrants or driveways that limit planting locations, and the option in some referral cases for the city to undertake replacement plantings. Several motions were moved by Amanda and seconded by Evan; votes recorded were unanimous.
The commission also noted an ongoing issue with unauthorized removals by contractors and reiterated that private companies cannot assume a tree is private without confirming whether a street‑tree permit applies. Staff will follow up on DPW permitting, locate planting sites, and coordinate replacement plantings with property owners or city crews where the commission authorized city planting.
