Dozens of trees have been planted where a proposed Heathrow 3rd runway would sit as an act of environmental defiance against the airport’s expansion plans. The move comes on World Earth Day.
The City of Heathrow requires homeowners and contractors to obtain a permit before tree removal on their property. This article will help you understand the process and regulations of obtaining a tree removal permit.
What Is A Tree Permit?
Work can only be conducted on a city tree or within 50 feet of a city tree after obtaining a tree permit. It includes, but is not limited to, installing sidewalks or driveways, planting trees, pruning, or any construction-related activity.
Applicants must submit a letter of intent concerning the proposed activity, architectural drawings, and site logistics/construction plans with their application. A forester will visit the site to evaluate the tree(s) and the work to determine whether a permit should be issued.
A permit may be denied if the proposed work is determined to be in a critical area of the tree or if the tree is deemed unhealthy, dangerous, or dead. This decision is based on the evaluation and inspection performed by a qualified arborist.
Removing or damaging a city tree without a permit is a misdemeanor. The punishment is a fine of up to $15,000 or a year in jail. Go to this website for more details on obtaining a tree removal permit.
What Is A Hazardous Tree Permit?
A hazardous tree permit allows the removal of a tree or trees considered in an emergency involving imminent danger to life and property. An ISA Certified Arborist or Licensed Tree Expert must complete a hazard assessment. It should include documentation that the tree or trees posing an immediate threat can be removed without impacting adjacent properties or in conflict with construction work.
A community’s ordinances must address how a hazard assessment is conducted and how a property owner can request this service. It is also a good idea to include provisions regarding penalties for violating the ordinance.
It is also a good idea for an ordinance to address requirements concerning planting trees and shrubs on private land. The ordinance can provide minimum specifications on species and spacing, a tree replacement requirement (canopy coverage must be met), and other details to protect our natural resources.
What Is A Tree Removal Permit?
Tree removal permits are required for all city of Gulf Shores properties with a protected or heritage tree on site. It is to ensure that the trees are protected and replaced for the benefit of the community.
There are several reasons that the city may approve an application to remove a tree. Some of these include when the tree is dying and already dead, when a large branch or limb has fallen off it, leaning or uprooted, about to fall over, or when the tree is deemed hazardous.
A homeowner or contractor must submit an application and a Certified Arborist letter for a permit to be issued. The city also requires that a site inspection is conducted to evaluate both the condition of the tree(s) and the “lay of the land” (i.e., the landscape). If a permit is approved, it will be posted on the property, which can easily be seen before the tree removal begins.
What Is A Tree Stump Permit?
A tree stump permit is a requirement for anyone who wants to have their tree stumps removed. It is a great way to get rid of unsightly and obstructive stumps left after a tree has been removed or cut down. Stumps must be recorded with the city before removal and can only be removed after approval by a city arborist.
In New York, residents are not required to obtain public tree permits. However, the city maintains some strict policies regarding private residences and the management of the trees on their property. Residents are only permitted to remove a tree from their property if it is dying or already dead, has a large branch or limb that has fallen off, or is leaning or uprooted and may fall over.
Additionally, residents can only plant trees without a Department of Parks and Recreation permit. It is to ensure that there are enough trees and that all current tree work has been completed.
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