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Design Review Board approves removal of hazardous Coast live oak at 426 West Street
Summary
On Dec. 17, 2024 the Sebastopol Design Review Board voted 3–0 to approve removal of a 26-inch-diameter Coast live oak at 426 West Street after a city arborist found a substantial trunk cavity and structural defect that could threaten adjacent property.
SEBASTOPOL, Calif. — The Sebastopol Design Review Board on Dec. 17 approved removal of a Coast live oak at 426 West Street, citing structural defects and a risk to an adjacent home.
Planning staff told the board the tree measures 26 inches in diameter at breast height and is protected under the Sebastopol Municipal Code, which requires review for trees larger than 10 inches DBH in certain zones. The city’s certified arborist, Ben Anderson, inspected the tree and prepared an arborist report dated Nov. 1, 2024, that described a decay cavity in the lower trunk as a substantial structural defect and “likely point of failure.” Staff recommended removal with the conditions listed in the staff report.
Seth Henley, who identified himself as a property owner at 426 West Street, said the tree has split trunks and internal rot and has been allowed to grow toward a neighboring house. “We don’t like cutting trees down, but in some cases it has to be done and we think this is one of those cases,” Henley said.
Board Member Carrie Bush said she visited the site and reviewed the arborist report and was “inclined to allow the removal” because the defect poses a foreseeable threat to life or property. Board members noted the tree’s poor health and its proximity to the neighboring roof and property.
Members discussed the code requirement for replacement trees or an in-lieu fee. One board member characterized the proposed replacement requirement as “onerous” for what appeared to be a clear case for removal; planning staff noted that the municipal code provides for either replacement plantings or an in-lieu fee.
Bush moved to approve the removal “as submitted” with no additional conditions; the transcript does not record the name of the board member who seconded the motion. The board voted by roll call: Board Member Dietler — Aye; Board Member Bush — Aye; Chair Langberg — Aye. The motion passed 3–0 with two members absent.
A member of the public later offered practical advice about cutting the stump slightly below ground to discourage regrowth; the board acknowledged the comment. Planning staff will process the removal permit consistent with the board’s action and the applicable provisions of the Sebastopol Municipal Code.
The tree removal was the lone regular agenda item at the special meeting.
