12.36 — TREES

Trees are declared to be a beneficial resource. They not only enhance air quality and reduce energy consumption, but they contribute in a major fashion to the aesthetic value of the city. It is the policy of the city to, by this chapter, provide for removal and planting of trees in an organized fashion, and to protect trees from unnecessary or unwarranted destruction whenever possible. It is the intent of the city to protect its existing trees defined in this chapter, and to promote the planting, maintenance, care and cultivation of trees within the city limits. To that end, it shall be unlawful to cut down, damage, poison, or in any other manner, destroy or cause to be destroyed any trees defined in this chapter except in accordance with the provisions set forth herein. (Prior code § 17A.1)

For the purpose of this chapter, the following definitions apply:

Care and Trimming. Care and trimming shall be performed in a reasonably prudent manner, with reasonable care to protect the tree.

"City manager" means the city manager of the city of Susanville, or his or her other designee appointed in writing.

"Registered tree" means a list, maintained by the city, of trees on private property that have been voluntarily registered by the owner of the tree. Registered trees can include trees of special historical interest, specimen trees based on size, age, or unique character, or any tree an owner wishes to receive future protection. A registered tree must be at least four inches in diameter at diameter breast height (d.b.h., which is four and one-half feet) above the ground.

"Species list" means the official list of acceptable trees for new plantings based on trees adapted to grow in the city.

"Street tree" means any tree four inches or greater in diameter at diameter breast height (d.b.h. is four and one-half feet above the ground) that exists within the public right-of-way, excepting alleys.

"Tree" means any woody perennial plant characterized by having one or more stems or trunks.

"Tree commission" means a commission of five members appointed by the mayor, approved by the council. At least two of the members should have technical expertise, such as a nursery or

landscape person. The commission will meet as needed, to review permits and other activities requiring technical expertise. The duties of the commission shall include: review statistics of the permit process, including tree removal and plantings; update species list; recommend permit fee changes; do field inspections when possible to assist city staff; review appeals under this chapter. The mayor, with the council's approval, may designate another existing commission of the city to assume the duties and responsibilities of the tree commission. (Prior code § 17A.2)