Tree board outlines how dead trees, critical-area mapping and the decision matrix are handled

The Chesapeake Beach Tree Board used part of its May 12 meeting to clarify permit procedures for dead trees, critical-area mapping and the town’s new decision matrix, telling residents how and when to seek town verification versus a board hearing.

The board said dead trees may be removed without a full board hearing if the town’s public works inspector or contracted arborist verifies the tree is dead. Board members and local contractors said verification can often be done from photographs; if the town arborist or inspector confirms the tree is dead, the applicant must still file the permit form but the removal can proceed administratively. “If it’s dead, it doesn’t matter if it’s 50 feet; if it’s dead, we can take it down,” contractor Ryan Billings said during public comment while describing the verification process.

The board also addressed confusion about the town’s critical-area mapping. Several attendees said they received conflicting information when calling Calvert County instead of Chesapeake Beach; town staff explained the town and county maps are intended to be the same but suggested residents use the town’s published link to the Calvert County GIS critical-area map. Board members asked staff to place clearer links to the decision matrix and critical-area map on the town website so residents can find the applicable rules and the tree-permit form in one place.

Town staff noted the decision matrix is new and will be included in the town’s online guidance. The board asked staff to make these materials easier to find and to remind residents that trimming does not require a permit but removal does (unless administratively cleared after verification).