Agenda Item Wording:
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Review of Ordinance - Review the City of Visalia Oak Tree Ordinance and direction to staff on recommend modifications.
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Deadline for Action: 1/16/2024
Submitting Department: Community Services
Contact Name and Phone Number: Zach Huff, zach.huff@visalia.city Parks and Urban Forestry Supervisor 713-4295 Alvin Dias, alvin.dias@visalia.city Parks and Facilities Manager 713-4564 Kelli Kincaid, kelli.kincaid@visalia.city Community Services Director 713-4042
Department Recommendation:
Objective: The purpose of this presentation is to provide an overview of the current City of Visalia ordinance related to Valley Oak trees and to propose recommended modifications and possible changes to the Oak Tree Ordinance, particularly concerning the management of Oak trees on public and private property, especially when related to safety concerns.
Proposed Modification 1: Modify Section 12.24.030 "Oak tree removal permit required."
Recommendation: Include the following permit exemption:
"No permit is required for public utilities subject to the jurisdiction of the Public Utilities Commission of the state of California to prune or remove a Valley Oak tree as necessary to maintain a safe operation for their facilities." The utilities are already subject to State and Federal regulations that supersede the City's ordinance and including this provision will streamline the process for safety purposes. Staff is recommending to proceed with this ordinance change.
Proposed Modifications 2: Sections 12.24.030 "Oak tree removal permit required" and 12.24.035 "Removal Standards"
Recommendation: Explore possible modifications in the following areas:
1. Policies and Procedures on Property:
* Review and revise language in the aforementioned sections to address Oak tree management on public or private property, emphasizing safety.
* Consider incorporating provisions that encourage responsible tree management practices, including pruning and removal...
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