Council approves change to tree-trimming rules, exempts homeowners from permit requirement

The Bee Cave City Council on March 10 unanimously approved Ordinance No. 599, revising the city's tree-trimming code to clarify permit requirements and public-health protections against oak wilt.

City staff and the ordinance presenter said the existing code restricts trimming to July 1 through Feb. 1 to reduce spread of oak wilt, a fungal disease transmitted by insects and root contact. Mr. Baker, who introduced the ordinance, told council the proposed change would exempt single-family property owners trimming their own trees from having to obtain a city permit while keeping requirements in place for businesses and landscape contractors that work from property to property, including an annual permit and equipment sanitation practices.

Supporters urged stronger enforcement and penalties. Resident Rick Skadden thanked staff for the clarification and urged council to consider tougher fines and better enforcement after recounting neighborhood complaints that inspectors had told callers they could not enforce violations on private property. A second resident, John Wickens, questioned how violations committed outside the trimming window would be "rectified." City legal counsel said remedies depend on circumstances; in some cases a retroactive permit may be possible while daily fines can accrue until corrective steps (such as wound painting or other remediation specified by code) are taken.

Council members asked whether the ordinance applies only to oaks and whether wound painting is required year-round; staff and the presenter confirmed the ordinance is focused on oak trees due to oak wilt risk and recommended covering wounds year-round. Staff reiterated that landscapers and tree-care businesses still must hold permits and sanitize equipment between properties to limit spread.

Council Member [name on the record as the mover] moved to approve Ordinance No. 599; the motion received a first and second and carried unanimously. The public record in the meeting audio/video notes the ordinance carries "unanimously," but the transcript did not include a roll-call tally.

The ordinance takes effect as specified in the ordinance text. The city said it will include educational outreach (signage, social media and the city's upcoming Earth Day communications) to remind residents about the trimming window, wound care and permit rules for commercial tree services.