College Station's Draft Tree Preservation Ordinance
March 10, 2009
On March 26, 2009, the College Station City Council is going to consider a tree preservation ordinance that has been in the works for some time. This ordinance will affect both developers and homeowners, so it is something that all should be aware of.
The ordinance's purpose is stated as: "The purpose and intent of this Section is to promote the preservation of trees and tree stands during construction to facilitate site design and construction that contributes to the long-term viability of existing trees and to develop a process to control the removal of trees. It is further the purpose of this ordinance to prevent the untimely and indiscriminate removal or destruction of trees, maintain and enhance a positive image of the City and to protect trees and promote the ecological environmental and aesthetic values of the City."
The ordinance will require a tree removal permit before removing trees greater than 8+ inches in diameter or before clearing a site containing such trees. It also has special requirements for "protected trees", a term which is defined in the ordinance. In order to remove these trees, there must be replacement trees planted.
The ordinance is very specific and should be evaluated in detail. If you want a copy of the draft, contact the City of College Station.
