§ 23.05.062. Tree Removal Permit Required.

No person shall allow or cause the removal of any tree without first obtaining a tree removal permit, as required by this section:

a.

When required. Plot Plan approval (Section 23.02.030), is required before the removal or replacement of any existing trees except for tree removal under circumstances that are exempt from tree removal permit requirements pursuant to subsection b. of this section, and except for the following types of tree removal, which are instead subject to Minor Use Permit approval:

(1)

Riparian vegetation near any coastal stream or wetland. (See Section 23.07.174 for additional standards);

(2)

Proposed for removal when not accompanied by a land use permit for development;

(3)

Located in any appealable area as defined by Section 23.01.043c;

(4)

Located in any Sensitive Resource Area (where the identified resources are trees) as shown on official combining designation maps (Part III of Land Use Element);

(5)

Where tree cutting will cumulatively remove more than 6,000 square feet of vegetation as measured from the canopy of trees removed.

b.

Exceptions to tree removal permit requirements. A tree removal permit is not required for the removal of trees that are:

(1)

Identified and approved for removal in an approved land use permit or approved subdivision improvement drawings, provided that such removal is subject to the standards of Section 23.05.064 (Tree Removal Standards); or

(2)

In a hazardous condition which presents an immediate danger to health or property as determined by a county inspection, provided that such removal is allowed by letter of the Planning Director and subject to the standards of Section 23.05.064 (Tree Removal Standards); or

(3)

With trunks measuring less than eight inches in diameter at four feet above grade; or

(4)

To be removed in preparation for agricultural cultivation and crop production in an Agriculture land use category.

(5)

To be removed as part of management practice in orchards of commercial agricultural production.

c.

Application content. Land use permit applications that propose tree removal are to include all information specified by Section 23.02.030b (Plot Plan Content) OR 23.02.033 (Minor Use Permit) where applicable, and the following:

(1)

The size, species and condition (e.g., diseased, healthy, etc.) of each tree proposed for removal.

(2)

The purpose of removal.

(3)

The size and species of any trees proposed to replace those intended for removal.

[Amended 2006, Ord. 3082]