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Commission reviews $10,750 fine for unauthorized removal of city tree at 18 Pine Hill
Summary
Staff described a recent enforcement case in which a city tree was removed without authorization, leading to a $10,750 assessed fine that the homeowner paid; commissioners reviewed the ordinance framework tying fines to tree caliper/DBH and the city’s collection remedies if unpaid.
At its June 2 meeting, the Norwalk City Urban Forestry Commission discussed enforcement procedures after an unauthorized removal of a city tree at 18 Pine Hill.
Chris, a city staff member responsible for enforcement, described the case: the homeowner removed a city tree, was assessed $10,750 and paid that assessed amount the same day the invoice was presented. Chris clarified that an adjacent large tree that had been heavily pruned was private property and therefore not subject to the city’s tree‑removal enforcement.
Commissioners reviewed how fines are calculated under the ordinance. Staff explained the city’s ordinance ties restitution to trunk caliper/diameter (DBH) and that replacement obligations can be met by planting smaller trees to equal the removed tree’s caliper or by paying assessed restitution. Chris said the ordinance allows pursuing up to three times the assessed value in court with appropriate justification and that some of the fine authority aligns with state statute as referenced in the meeting.
The commission discussed enforcement practicality: whether contractors who advise or remove trees without proper permits can also be fined and how code enforcement capacity affects timely investigation. Staff noted contractors have been assessed in past cases when evidence showed they misled homeowners about tree ownership; if homeowners do not pay, the city can place a lien on the property.
Commission members asked staff to consider additional outreach to landscapers and property owners to reduce illegal removals and to clarify permitting and enforcement steps in public materials.
