Earlier editions: 2026-09
Title 12 — STREETS, SIDEWALKS AND PUBLIC PLACES›Chapter 12.24 — OAK TREE PRESERVATION
Visalia Municipal Code Art. 1 Purpose and Definitions
Visalia Municipal Code · 2026-10 edition · updated 2026-10-03 · Visalia
Cite as: Visalia Municipal Code Article 1 · Text as of 2026-10-03
12.24.010 Purpose.¶
A. In order to promote the public health, safety and general welfare, to enhance the beauty of Visalia and to complement and strengthen zoning, subdivision and land use standards and regulations, while at the same time recognizing individual rights to develop private property, the city council finds it necessary to establish basic standards, measures and compliance requirements for the preservation and protection of native Valley oak trees and landmark trees.
B. The provisions of this chapter are enacted to:
Enhance natural scenic beauty;
Assist in the overall goal of preservation, maintenance and regeneration of a healthy urban forest and tree cover;
Promote the conservation of energy resources and regulation of temperature through the provision of shade, evaporative cooling and wind break provided by trees;
- Improve the quality of air, water, and soil resources;
- Sustain and enhance property values;
- Promote the well-being of the community;
- Provide for recreational settings, wildlife habitat, and ecological balance;
Provide for safety through responsible and safe standards for the trimming and/or removal of oak trees;
Promote Visalia's unique identity. (Ord. 2007-02 § 2 (part), 2007; Ord. 9907 § 2 (part), 1999)
12.24.020 Definitions.¶
As used in this chapter, the following terms are defined in this section:
“City Manager” means the city manager of the city or his or here designated representative.
"Crown-drip-line" means the outer perimeter of an oak tree's canopy.
"Oak tree" means Valley Oak Tree (Quercus lobata). "Oak tree" may also mean a "landmark tree." "Landmark tree" means any native or non-native tree recognized by city council resolution for its age, size, location, outstanding habitat value, superior beauty, historical, and/or cultural significance.
"Person" means individuals, associations, corporations, public agencies, joint ventures, partnerships, independent contractors, and other agents and employees.
"Pruning standards" means those pruning standards established by the Western Chapter of the International Society of Arboriculture dated 1995, as revised by the Society from time to time, and as amended by this chapter.
(Ord. 2021-03 § 2, 2021; Ord. 2007-02 § 2 (part), 2007; Ord. 2003-07 § 1, 2003; Ord. 9907 § 2 (part), 1999)
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