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West Linn staff propose tree‑code changes to clarify permits, shift future heritage‑tree maintenance to owners
Summary
City staff recommended technical tree‑code amendments that would clarify permit language, update state‑law compliance, and require future heritage trees on private property to be maintained by property owners while grandfathering nine existing designations.
City staff presented technical updates to West Linn’s municipal tree code intended to improve clarity, ensure state‑law compliance and streamline the permit process.
Project lead Megan Bigjohn summarized community outreach and recurring public questions (ownership at property lines, pruning standards, and stump rules). Legal staff said the proposed changes align code language with state requirements and recommended a design that keeps the nine currently designated, privately owned heritage trees grandfathered into city maintenance while shifting maintenance responsibility for trees designated after the effective date to property owners. Kaylee (legal) said staff would prepare a new nomination/consent form and post the revised packet prior to the Sept. 8 adoption vote.
Councilors asked for clarification about overlapping development review rules; consultants and planners said large‑scale land‑use protections sit in the development code and would require a separate, more extensive review. Staff also flagged pest threats: emerald ash borer has been found in nearby Oregon City and staff said future code edits will include disposal and permitted‑removal language to allow timely disease control actions.
The council expressed general support for the approach and staff said they would post an updated draft and related outreach materials before the Monday business meeting for adoption consideration.
