URBAN FOREST MASTER PLAN - Laserfiche WebLink

48 | CITY OF PLEASANTON URBAN FOREST MASTER PLAN CONTEXT The Ordinance has been updated a number of times since it was first adopted. In 1995, requirements were added to have pruning of Heritage trees be in accordance with ISA standards, and the penalty for removing a heritage tree without a permit was also modified to include the appraised value of the tree. In February of 1998, the permitted reasons for removal of a heritage tree were broadened and the penalty for unpermitted removal was further refined so that applicants weren’t charged more than the appraised value of the tree, when those trees were appraised at a value less than $5,000 per tree. A month later in March of 1998, the Heritage Tree Board of Appeals was added to the Ordinance so that a staff decision regarding the denial of a tree removal permit could be challenged by the applicant without being required to appeal to City Council. A number of changes to the Ordinance were also made between 2011 and 2021, which are summarized in Table 2-1 below: Table 2-1. Updates to the Pleasanton Tree Preservation Ordinance From 2011 to 2021 Date Contractor Services March 2011 Modified to state only the property owner, or the property owner’s representative, can apply for removal of a heritage tree located on their property. Also provided minor clarifications to appeals process. May 2015 Language changed to protect all heritage trees, not just native tree species, and provided staff some discretion regarding fines for illegal heritage tree removal. August 2017 Clarified that denial of an application to remove a heritage tree can be appealed to the appeal board even when not associated with new development. Clarified tree removal requirements for new developments. Amended the appeal process to clarify rules associated with certified consulting arborists, noticing, mitigation, and penalties. Clarified the pruning guidelines May 2018 Removed the requirement for formal written findings supporting the appeal board’s decisions. Allowed appeals of penalties associated with illegal tree removal/pruning to be heard by the appeal board May 2019 Clarified that leaf drop is not a nuisance and does not justify removal. Updated the appeal board hearing procedure. Provided discretion whether a tree report be required for new developments. Increased the bond amount paid by developers to ensure tree preservation as required by conditions of entitlement. June 2021 Required tree planting somewhere on property when a heritage tree removal application is approved.