Sonoma Municipal Code Art. IV Exceptions

The provisions of this regulation as provided in SMC 12.08.030 through 12.08.038 shall not apply to the following:

A. The trimming or clearing of any tree’s branches or roots from interfering (a) with the lines of any public utility, city water, sewer and storm drain lines and open storm drain channels and city streets, sidewalks, curbs and gutters when necessary for the proper maintenance of such facilities, or (b) with the maintenance of adequate lines of sight along city streets and entrances to such streets, including lines of sight to traffic control signs and signals; provided, that accepted arboricultural practices are utilized in each instance.

B. A removal or alteration of any tree necessitated by a hazardous or dangerous condition caused by the tree, or a portion thereof, which requires immediate action to protect life or property. Such a tree may be altered or removed by city personnel or a designated city contractor without a permit. Decision-making authority in such situations shall be made by the city manager or the head of any one of the following departments: police, fire, public works, planning or building.

C. The removal of a tree species, of whatever size, that have been specifically identified by the tree committee as not warranting the protections set forth in this chapter. Any such list of exempt trees shall be adopted and amended by the tree committee by resolution. (Ord. 11-2009 § 1(11), 2009; Ord. 09-2003 § 1, 2003; Ord. 96-11, 1996).