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Commission debates tree counts, planting locations and substitution rules in draft ordinance
Summary
Staff proposed a sliding scale for single- and two-family properties, required caliper sizes for mitigation credit, and substitution ratios allowing trees to replace shrubs; commissioners pressed for front-yard placement language and clearer substitution limits.
Planning staff presented proposed revisions to tree and planting rules that would change minimums for single- and two-family lots and add substitution ratios between trees and shrubs.
Wes Morrison explained the residential sliding scale: "For lots 5,000 square feet or less, they're required to have 1 tree, in of a 3 inch caliper," and for larger lots additional trees are required. Commissioners raised concerns about the draft dropping a front-yard requirement; Morrison agreed to add explicit front-yard language and to change "ornamental" to "small" to match the approved plant list.
The draft includes substitution language. Morrison summarized ratios in discussion: "1 large tree may take the place of 2 required small trees" and noted small trees may replace shrubs under specified counts. Commissioners emphasized they did not want substitution rules to permit developers to avoid planting trees entirely; the commission requested a site-trigger or per-site limit for the substitution allowance.
Staff also noted that to count toward tree-mitigation calculations, planted trees must meet caliper thresholds tied to the tree preservation ordinance, and commissioners asked staff to research practical nursery availability and installation sizes before the public hearing.
