DIR2007-Tree Plan DIRECTOR'S INTERPRETATION
DATE: November 27, 2007
CODE SECTIONS: 18.790 Tree Removal
TOPIC: How should the statement, "Protection is preferred over removal wherever possible" in section 18.790.030 be
interpreted?
DIRECTOR'S INTERPRETATION:
I. Introduction
A tree plan is required when a development application is filed:
18.790.030 Tree Plan Requirement
A. Tree plan required. A tree plan for the planting, removal and protection of trees prepared by a certified
arborist shall be provided for any lot, parcel or combination of lots or parcels for which a development application
for a subdivision, partition, site development review, planned development or conditional use is filed. Protection
is preferred over removal wherever possible.
Historically, applicants have been required to identify all of the trees on the site, specify which will be removed, and
propose protection methods for those to be retained. Any or all trees could be removed as long as they were
,,-ikppropriated mitigated.
As process does not prioritize protection over removal; a tree plan requirement.
In order to clarify the intent of the," Protection is preferred over removal wherever possible" requirement, a Director's
interpretation is needed.
11. Interpretation:
One of the primary purposes of Chapter 18.790 of the Tigard Development Code is to protect existing trees. It is the
City's goal to uphold this purpose to the greatest extent possible.
Therefore, all land use applicants shall be required to demonstrate that the configuration of their development protects
the maximum amount of existing, high quality trees.
The City recognizes that some existing trees will need to be removed to meet certain planning and/or construction
requirements:
18.790.010 Purpose
C. Recognize need for exceptions. The City recognizes that, notwithstanding these purposes, at the time of
development it may be necessary to remove certain trees in order to accommodate structures, streets utilities,
and other needed or required improvements within the development.
However, if the applicant cannot demonstrate that all possible steps are being taken to maximize protection of existing,
high quality trees wherever possible, their development application may be denied. Such steps shall include, but not
be limited to:
1. Site layout that maximizes tree retention
2. Location of improvements such as driveways, utilities, and walkways to maximize tree retention
3. Use of alternative construction techniques such as tunneling instead of trenching for utilities to maximize tree
retention
DI 8200-7
4. Reduction of parking spaces to maximize tree retention
5. Reduction of the total number of lots to maximize tree retention
6. Utilization of lot size averaging to maximize tree retention
7. Reduction in lot width and/or depth to maximize tree retention
8. Design building footprints to maximize tree retention
,—�Ined:
Tom Coffee
Community Development Director