Commission recommends forestry code changes requiring bird‑nest surveys before tree removal

The Lehi City Planning Commission voted to recommend amendments to Development Code Chapter 35 that add protections for trees affected by migratory birds and clarify the city's recommended public tree planting list.

Staff outlined the changes as mostly minor wording edits, with a key addition: a paragraph referencing federal and state laws that protect birds and a requirement that an environmental (RIN) survey be provided by an environmental consultant before removal of trees that have current or past migratory nests, at the landowner's expense. Urban Forester Jessica Smith said the change gives staff a local tool to require a survey and to pause tree removal activity near nests. “We are the first defense to shut down development,” Smith said, clarifying the city is not enforcing federal law but is asking for up‑front surveys to avoid disturbing protected birds and to protect developers from state and federal penalties.

Commissioners and staff clarified the amendment is intended to pause tree removal near nests where necessary — not to halt entire projects — and to allow other parts of development to proceed where work is not disruptive to nesting birds. A motion to recommend the code amendments passed unanimously; the recommendation includes addressing Development Review Committee comments during subsequent permitting.