a. Trees: Commercial canopy trees shall have a minimum height of eight feet and a

Planning and Zoning Commission · 2026-04-15 · agenda_item

This notice is about a proposed amendment to the city's tree ordinance, currently under review by the Planning and Zoning Commission. The amendment would set new minimum standards for commercial and residential canopy trees, including height and caliper measurements at planting. It also includes specific rules for planting trees near public roadways to prevent root damage, requiring root systems to be encased in containers of a minimum size if planted closer than 12 feet. The ordinance also defines requirements for understory trees, including height, caliper, and crown spread. This item is early in the public process, under review. The work this could set in motion involves landscaping and site preparation, potentially including the installation of specialized tree containers and the planting of new trees. Local contractors, nurseries, and suppliers involved in landscaping and site preparation could benefit from understanding these proposed changes. Reaching out now, before final decisions are made, offers an advantage in preparing for potential future work.

minimum height for commercial canopy trees

8 feet

minimum caliper for commercial canopy trees

2 inches

minimum distance from public works for certain trees

12 feet

minimum interior width for tree root containment

5 feet

minimum interior depth for tree root containment

5 feet

minimum height for residential canopy trees

8 feet

minimum caliper for residential canopy trees

2 inches

minimum height for understory trees

6 feet

minimum caliper for understory trees

1.5 inches

minimum crown spread for understory trees

4 feet

maximum number of main trunks for multi-trunk understory trees

3

combined caliper for multi-trunk understory trees

2.5 inches