§ 8-7. Same—Criteria for issuance.

After the application is filed with the building department, the tree protection advisor shall consider the following criteria in the approval or denial of a tree permit for the removal, relocation or substantial alteration of a protected tree:

(1)

The condition of the tree or trees proposed to be removed with respect to disease, insect attack, danger of falling, proximity to existing or proposed structures and interference with utility services.

(2)

The necessity of removing the tree or trees in order to construct the proposed improvements or structures to allow reasonable economic use of the property.

(3)

The effect of removal on erosion, soil moisture retention, flow of surface waters and coordination with the drainage system plan of the city.

(4)

The number and density of trees in the area, and the effect of tree removal on property values of the neighborhood and other existing vegetation.

(5)

Whether any tree proposed to be removed is worthy of preservation.

(6)

Impact upon the urban and natural environment, including:

a.

Whether tree removal would substantially alter the water table or affect the stability of ground and surface water.

b.

Whether tree removal would affect water quality and aquifer recharge by reducing the natural assimilation of nutrients, chemical pollutants, heavy metals and other substances from ground and surface waters during the movement of water towards an aquifer or natural stream.

c.

Whether tree removal would have an adverse impact upon existing biological and ecological systems.

d.

Whether tree removal would affect noise pollution by increasing source noise levels to such a degree that a public nuisance or violation of noise control would occur.

e.

Whether tree removal will affect air movement by significantly reducing the ability of existing vegetation to reduce wind velocities.

f.

Whether tree removal will affect quality by significantly affecting the natural cleansing of the atmosphere by vegetation.

g.

Whether tree removal will affect wildlife habitat by significantly reducing the habitat available for wildlife existence and reproduction or causing the emigration of wildlife from adjacent or associated ecosystems.

(7)

The ease with which the applicant can alter or revise the proposed development or improvement to accommodate existing trees.

(8)

The economic hardship that would be imposed upon the applicant were the permit denied.

(9)

The heightened desirability of preserving tree cover in densely developed or densely populated areas.

(10)

The need for visual screening in transitional zones or relief from glare, blight, commercial or industrial ugliness or any other visual affront.

(11)

Whether the continued presence of the tree or trees is likely to cause danger to a person or property.

(12)

Whether the topography of the area in which the tree or trees are located is of such a nature to be damaging or injurious to trees.

(13)

Whether the removal of the trees is for the purpose of thinning a heavily wooded area where some trees will remain.

(Ord. No. 2687, § 1(Exh. A), 7-20-10)