Chapter 8.21
STREET TREES
Sections:
8.21.010 Administration.
The mayor or mayor’s designee is authorized to administer this chapter, and to enforce violations. (Ord. 683 § 1, 1993)
8.21.020 Street trees.
Trees or shrubs may be planted on planting strips by the owner of property adjacent to the right-of-way, subject to the following:
A. Type of Tree. The city shall maintain a list of trees and shrubs acceptable for planting in the right-of-way, which do not have aggressive root systems which could cause damage to streets, sidewalks and underground utilities. Selection of the type of tree or shrub to be planted in the right-of-way may be made by the property owner from this list.
B. Maintenance of Tree. All costs of planting, pruning and maintenance of any trees and/or shrubs shall be the responsibility of the abutting property owner. Obstruction of the streets or sidewalks by overhanging vegetation may be abated by the city at the abutting owner’s expense, as provided in Chapter 8.20 CHMC.
C. Location of Tree. Any tree or shrub planted within the right-of-way shall only be planted in those areas approved by the city as allowing a clear line of sight for traffic in intersections and driveways, and an acceptable overhead clearance for utility lines.
D. Public Nuisance. Any street tree or shrub planted in violation of this chapter is declared to be a public nuisance, and may be abated by the city as such under Chapter 8.20 CHMC.
E. Removal, Destruction or Damage to Street Trees. Spiking, damaging, removal or destruction of a street tree is a violation of RCW 64.12.030 and/or RCW 9.91.150. (Ord. 730 § 3, 1995; Ord. 683 § 1, 1993)
8.21.030 Tree board.
The planning commission is designated the city’s tree board, with the responsibility to review and amend the approved list of trees and shrubs for planting in the public right-of-way, and to determine policies for the care of such trees and shrubs, such as planting locations, maintenance and removal. The commission shall also have the responsibility for the development of appropriate methods for preservation of trees or existing plantings in the public right-of-way during construction activities, so that such methods may be incorporated as conditions of permits or any other city approval of such activities. (Ord. 683 § 1, 1993)