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AGENDA
TEMECULA PLANNING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
43200 BUSINESS PARK DRIVE
JANUARY 21, 2009 - 6:00 PM
Next in Order:
Resolution: 2009-03
CALL TO ORDER:
Flag Salute: Commissioner Chiniaeff
Roll Call: Carey, Chiniaeff, Guerriero, Harter, and Telesio
PUBLIC COMMENTS
A total of 15 minutes is provided so members of the public may address the Commission
on items that are not listed on the Agenda. Speakers are limited to three minutes each. If
you desire to speak to the Commission about an item not on the Agenda, a salmon
colored "Request to Speak" form should be filled out and filed with the Commission
Secretary.
When you are called to speak, please come forward and state your name for the record.
For all other agenda items a "Request to Speak" form must be filed with the Commission
Secretary prior to the Commission addressing that item. There is a three-minute time
limit for individual speakers.
NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC
All matters listed under Consent Calendar are considered to be routine and all will be
enacted by one roll call vote. There will be no discussion of these items unless Members
of the Planning Commission request specific items be removed from the Consent
Calendar for separate action..
CONSENT CALENDAR
1 Director's Hearing Summary Report
RECOMMENDATION:
1.1 Receive and file the Director's Hearing Summary
PUBLIC HEARING ITEMS
Any person may submit written comments to the Planning Commission before a public
hearing or may appear and be heard in support of or in opposition to the approval of the
project(s) at the time of hearing. If you challenge any of the projects in court, you may be
limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing or
in written correspondences delivered to the Commission Secretary at, or prior to, the
public hearing.
Any person dissatisfied with any decision of the Planning Commission may file an appeal
of the Commission's decision. Said appeal must be filed within 15 calendar days after
service of written notice of the decision, must be filed on the appropriate Planning
Department application and must be accompanied by the appropriate filing fee.
2 Planning Application Number LR08-0019, review the proposed Heritage Tree Ordinance,
RECOMMENDATION:
2.1 Adopt a resolution entitled:
RESOLUTION 09-
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
TEMECULA RECOMMENDING THAT THE CITY COUNCIL ADOPT AN
ORDINANCE ENTITLED "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF TEMECULA,
CALIFORNIA, ADDING NEW CHAPTER 8.48 (TEMECULA HERITAGE TREE
ORDINANCE) TO TITLE 8 (HEALTH AND SAFETY) OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE
OF THE CITY OF TEMECULA"
REPORTS FROM COMMISSIONERS
REPORTS FROM PLANNING DIRECTOR
ADJOURNMENT
Next regular meeting: Planning Commission, Wednesday, February 4, 2009, 6:00 PM. City
Council Chambers, 43200 Business Park Drive, Temecula, California.
The entire agenda packet (including staff reports) will be available for viewing at City Hall's Planning Department Public
Counter located at 43200 Business Park Drive and at the Temecula Library located at 30600 Pauba Road during normal
business hours. The packet will be available for viewing the Friday before the Planning Commission meeting after 4:00
p.m. You may also access the packet the Friday before the meeting after 4:00 p.m. on the City's website at
cityoftemecula.org.
ITEM 1
CITY OF TEMECULA
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
PLANNING DIVISION
MEMORANDUM
TO: Planning Commission
FROM: Debbie Ubnoske, Director of Planning
DATE: January 21, 2009
SUBJECT: Director's Hearing Summary Report
Planning Director's Agenda items for December 2008
Date
Case No.
Proposal
Applicant
Action
December 4, 2008
PA08-0224
A Minor Conditional Use Permit for
John Clement
APPROVED
a Martial Arts studio totaling 4,996
square feet within the Meadows
Village Shopping Center
December 4, 2008
PA08-0225
A Minor Conditional Use Permit for
John Clement
APPROVED
Fitwize for Kids facility totaling
3,023 square feet
December 4, 2008
PA08-0185
A Development Plan to construct a
PfaffI/Richards
APPROVED
secure vehicle storage yard on a
Development
1.21 acare site
Corp.
December 18, 2008
PA08-0148
A Minor Modification to an
Walt Allen
APPROVED
approved Development to eliminate
Architect
the underground parking lot and
reduce the building height and
square footage of the building
Attachment:
Action Agendas
ACTION AGENDAS
ACTION AGENDA
TEMECULA PLANNING DIRECTOR'S HEARING
REGULAR MEETING
DECEMBER 04, 2008 1:30 p.m.
TEMECULA CITY HALL MAIN CONFERENCE ROOM
43200 Business Park Drive
Temecula, CA 92590
CALL TO ORDER: Debbie Ubnoske, Director of Planning
PUBLIC COMMENTS
A total of 15 minutes is provided so members of the public can address the Planning
Director on items that are not listed on the Agenda. Speakers are limited to three (3)
minutes each. If you desire to speak to the Planning Director about an item not listed on the
Agenda, a white "Request to Speak" form should be filled out and filed with the Planning
Director.
When you are called to speak, please come forward and state your name and address.
Item No. 1 1:30 p.m.
Project Number:
PA08-0224
Project Type:
Minor Conditional Use Permit
Project Title:
Meadows Village Shopping Center
Applicant:
John Clement
Project Description:
A Minor Conditional Use Permit for a Martial Arts studio totaling 4,996
square feet within the Meadows Village Shopping
Location:
Generally located on the southeast corner of Rancho California Road
and Meadows Parkway at 31795 Rancho California Road, Suite
8700
Environmental Action:
Exempt per CEQA Section 15301, Class 1 Existing Facilities
Project Planner:
Eric Jones
ACTION:
APPROVED
Item No. 2
Project Number: PA08-0225
Project Type: Minor Conditional Use Permit
Project Title: Meadows Village Shopping Center
Applicant: John Clement
Project Description: A Minor Conditional Use Permit for Fitwize for Kids facility totaling
3,023 square feet
Location: Generally located on the southeast corner of Rancho California Road
and Meadows Parkway at 31795 Rancho California Road, Suite
B700
Environmental Action: Exempt per CEQA Section 15301, Class 1 Existing Facilities
Project Planner: Eric Jones
ACTION: APPROVED
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Item No.3
Project Number:
Project Type:
Project Title:
Applicant:
Project Description:
Location:
Environmental Action:
Project Planner:
ACTION:
PA08-0185
Development Plan
RTA Parking Lot
Pfaffl/Richards Development Corp
A Development Plan to construct a secure vehicle storage yard on a
1.2 acre site
28071 Diaz Road
Exempt per CEQA Section 15332, Class 32 In-Fill Development
Projects)
Dana Schuma
APPROVED
The agenda packet (including staff reports) will be available for viewing at City Hall's Planning Department Public Counter
located at 43200 Business Park Drive and at the Temecula Library located at 30600 Pauba Road during normal business
hours. The packet will be available for viewing the Friday before the Director's Hearing after 4:00 p.m. You may also
access the packet the Friday before the meeting after 4:00 p.m. on the City's website at www.cityoftemecula.org.
C:Trogram Files\Neevia.Com\Document Converter\temp\902887.doc
4
ACTION AGENDA
TEMECULA PLANNING DIRECTOR'S HEARING
REGULAR MEETING
DECEMBER 18, 2008 1:30 p.m.
TEMECULA CITY HALL MAIN CONFERENCE ROOM
43200 Business Park Drive
Temecula, CA 92590
CALL TO ORDER: Debbie Ubnoske, Director of Planning
PUBLIC COMMENTS
A total of 15 minutes is provided so members of the public can address the Planning
Director on items that are not listed on the Agenda. Speakers are limited to three (3)
minutes each. If you desire to speak to the Planning Director about an item not listed on the
Agenda, a white "Request to Speak" form should be filled out and filed with the Planning
Director.
When you are called to speak, please come forward and state your name and address.
Item No. 1
Project Number:
Project Type:
Project Title:
Applicant:
Project Description:
Location:
Project Planner:
ACTION:
1:30 p.m.
PA08-0148
Minor Modification
James Webb Building
Walt Allen Architects
A Minor Modification to an approved Development to eliminate the
underground parking lot and reduce the building height and square
footage of the building.
27423 Ynez Road Tower Plaza
Dana Schuma
APPROVED
The agenda packet (including staff reports) will be available forviewing at City Hall's Planning Department Public Counter
located at 43200 Business Park Drive and atthe Temecula Library located at 30600 Pauba Road during normal business
hours. The packet will be available for viewing the Friday before the Director's Hearing after 4:00 p.m. You may also
access the packet the Friday before the meeting after 4:00 p.m. on the City's website at www.cityoftemecula.org.
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ITEM 2
STAFF REPORT - PLANNING
CITY OF TEMECULA
PLANNING COMMISSION
DATE OF MEETING: January 21, 2009
PREPARED BY: Emery J. Papp, AICP, Senior Planner
PROJECT Planning Application Number LR08-0019, review the proposed
SUMMARY: Heritage Tree Ordinance, adding new Chapter 8.48 to Title 8 of the
Municipal Code, and recommend that the City Council adopt the
Ordinance
CEQA: Categorically Exempt
Section 15061.(b)(3)
BACKGROUND SUMMARY
Protection of trees is a quality of life issue for Temecula residents; however, there are currently
no protections in place to guarantee the preservation of significant trees throughout the City of
Temecula. The proposed Heritage Tree Ordinance, Heritage Tree Preservation and Protection
Manual and its appendices represent the outcome of a City Council Subcommittee spearheaded
by Council Members Ron Roberts and Chuck Washington. The City Council Subcommittee on
Heritage Trees found that it is in the public interest to enact regulations to protect and preserve
heritage trees and encourage the application of management techniques to control the pruning,
trimming, shaping and removal or relocation of these trees within the City.
A draft of the proposed Ordinance was presented to the Planning Commission on April 16,
2008. At the conclusion of this public hearing, the Planning Commission cited several concerns
with the Ordinance and requested a 90-day continuance for staff to revise the Ordinance. To
address these concerns, staff prepared a significantly revised Ordinance largely based on
existing Ordinances created by the City of Thousand Oaks to protect Oak Trees and other
Landmark Trees. The Thousand Oaks' Ordinances have been on the books for decades and
are widely regarded as setting the bar for protection of significant trees.
The revised Ordinance, which was prepared by staff in conjunction with the Council
Subcommittee and the City Attorney, took longer than the requested 90-day continuance and
was continued off-calendar. The delay in returning the item to the Planning Commission was
caused by the extent of changes to the draft Ordinance, additional review by legal counsel, and
several attempts to enter into a contract with a consulting arborist. At the time this report was
prepared, the draft Ordinance had not been reviewed by an arborist, however, staff continues to
negotiate a contract with a certified arborist.
ANALYSIS
The original draft Heritage Tree Ordinance was a broad-brush approach that would have
provided automatic protection to all trees, except Eucalyptus species, once they reached a
certain diameter. This approach could have led to long-term maintenance problems and
potential legal issues, such as impacting solar easements and damage claims.
The most significant change to the revised Ordinance is the change in focus to protection of
native tree species in their native environment. All species of oaks found within naturally
occurring open space areas or designated Open Space areas are protected regardless of their
size. Other native species such as Black Walnut, California Holly and California Sycamore
receive automatic protection in their native environment once they have grown to a specified
diameter.
To ensure long term health and viability of Heritage Trees thoughout the City, staff has worked
with the City Council subcommittee and has prepared a draft Heritage Tree Ordinance and
Preservation and Protection Manual. The contents of each Article within the proposed
Ordinance are summarized below.
Article 1 of the proposed Ordinance contains the purpose for the Ordinance, defines key terms
used throughout the Ordinance and the accompanying Heritage Tree Preservation and
Protection Manual, and the criteria for determining what qualifies as a "Heritage Tree." In
general, native specimen oak tree species, regardless of size, are considered Heritage Trees.
Native specimen California Sycamore, California Bay Laurel, California Black Walnut, and
California Holly are also protected at maturity. According to the International Society of
Arboriculture, California Sycamore is considered mature when the trunk diameter reaches 12
inches. All of the other species mentioned above are considered mature specimens when the
trunk diameter reaches 8 inches. Also included are trees of any size planted as a replacement
for a Heritage Tree, and trees determined by Conditions of Approval to be protected in place.
New to the Article 1 is a procedure that permits members of the public to nominate any tree in
the City as a Heritage Tree. To be considered, the property owner must consent to the
nomination, and an application must be submitted for review and approval by the Planning
Commission. The accompanying Heritage Tree Preservation and Protection Manual outlines
this procedure. An additional purpose of the Heritage Tree Preservation and Protection Manual
is to reduce the impacts of construction through regular maintenance of the trees, minimizing or
avoiding physical damage to the trees and minimizing or avoiding soil disturbance. The
Planning Director shall have the authority to change, update or supplement these provisions.
Article 2 of the proposed Ordinance discusses the need for lawful maintenance, removal or
relocation of Heritage Trees. Under these provisions, the Director of Planning may approve a
permit for the pruning, removal or relocation of a Heritage Tree and shall consider appropriate
mitigation based on the following criteria: purpose of the project, the overall condition and size
of the tree, the species and size of replacement trees, and other criteria contained in the
Heritage Tree Preservation and Protection Manual deemed appropriate. Article 2 also contains
exceptions that define when it is appropriate to remove or relocate a Heritage Tree without prior
authorization.
Article 3 defines what constitutes a violation of the Ordinance and discusses enforcement and
remedies for violations, including the appeals process. Penalties for willful destruction of a
Heritage Tree include fines assessed under Sections 1.21 and 1.24 of the Temecula Municipal
Code and restitution in the form of physical replacement or payment equal to the value of the
Heritage Tree as determined by the International Society of Arboriculture.
The proposed Heritage Tree Ordinance addresses policies identified in the General Plan Open
Space/Conservation Element, including:
Policy 5.4 - Retain and improve the quality of landscaping in parkways, public slopes, rights-of-
way, parks, civic facilities, and other public open areas.
Policy 6.9 - Encourage the preservation and re-use of historic structures, landscape features,
roads, landmark trees, and trails.
LEGAL NOTICING REQUIREMENTS
Notice of the public hearing was published in the Californian on January 10, 2009.
ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION
Staff has determined that Ordinance No. 09- (Heritage Tree Ordinance) is exempt from the
requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant to Title 14 of the
California Code of Regulations, Section 15061(b)(3) because it can be seen with certainty that
there is no possibility that the Ordinance will have a significant effect on the environment. The
Ordinance will have no adverse environmental affects because it will protect and preserve
significant trees within the City of Temecula.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the Planning Commission adopt a resolution recommending that the City
Council approve an Amendment to Title 8 of the Temecula Municipal Code.
ATTACHMENTS
PC Resolution
Exhibit A - Draft CC Ordinance
Heritage Tree Preservation and Protection Manual
Appendix A Zone Map Overview
Maps 1-10
Maps 11-20
Appendix B Watercourses
Appendix C Corridors
Appendix D Tree Pruning-Removal Permit
Appendix E Heritage Tree Nomination Form
PC 4-16-08 Staff R eport
Notice of Public Hearing
ORDINANCE NO. - 09
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF TEMECULA,
CALIFORNIA, ADDING NEW CHAPTER 8.48 (TEMECULA
HERITAGE TREE ORDINANCE) TO TITLE 8 (HEALTH
AND SAFETY) OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE OF THE CITY
OF TEMECULA
The City Council of the City of Temecula, does ordain as follows:
Section 1: Title 8, "Health and Safety," of the Temecula Municipal Code is
hereby amended by the addition of a new Chapter 8.48, to read as follows:
"CHAPTER 8.48
HERITAGE TREE ORDINANCE
Article 1
General Provisions
8.48.100
Title
8.48.110
Purpose
8.48.120
Definitions
8.48.130
Heritage Tree Preservation and Protection Manual
8.48.140
Designation of Heritage Trees
8.48.150
Non-Liability of City
8.48.100 Title
This chapter shall be known as "The City of Temecula Heritage Tree Ordinance"
and is referred to herein as the "Ordinance."
8.48.110 Purpose
The purpose of this Ordinance is to protect and preserve native and non-native
trees on public and private property that are of sufficient visual and historic importance
to the community to justify special efforts to protect and preserve them. This Ordinance
will also encourage the application of management techniques to control the pruning,
cutting, shaping, removal, and relocation of Heritage Trees within the City. The
preservation program outlined in this Ordinance will contribute to the welfare and
aesthetics of the community and retain the great historical and environmental value of
these trees.
8.48.120 Definitions
For purposes of this Ordinance, the following words and phrases shall have the
meaning set forth in this Section.
"Certified Arborist" means an arborist who is registered with the International
Society of Arboriculture and approved by the Planning Director.
"City" means the City of Temecula.
"Cutting" means the detaching or separating, from a protected tree, any limb,
branch, or root. Cutting shall include pruning.
"Damage" means any unpermitted action, including, but not limited to, cutting,
poisoning, over watering, removal, relocation, transplanting, trenching, excavating, or
paving within the protected zone of a tree, that causes the injury, death, or
disfigurement of a Heritage Tree.
"Disfigurement" means the unsightly and injurious cutting of a Heritage Tree,
including, but not limited to tree-trimming practices not in conformance with standards
established by the International Society of Arboriculture and pruning practices such as
stubbing, heading, heading back, stubbing off, pollarding, tipping, topping off, de-
horning, lopping, and rounding.
"Deadwood" means limbs, branches, or a portion of a tree that contains no green
leaves during a time of year when they would be present on a healthy tree of that type.
"Development" means the improvement or use of real property that requires the
City's discretionary review and approval.
"Drip line" means the outermost edge of the tree canopy, which when depicted
on a map, will appear as an irregular shaped circle that follows the contour of the tree's
branches as seen from overhead.
"Encroachment" means any intrusion into or human activity within the protected
zone of a Heritage Tree including, but not limited to, pruning, grading, excavating,
trenching, parking of vehicles, storage of materials or equipment, or the construction of
structures or other improvements.
"Heritage Tree" means a tree designated as a Heritage Tree pursuant to Section
8.48.140 of this Ordinance.
"Heritage Tree Preservation and Policy Manual" means the collection of
administrative rules, procedures, and requirements prepared and published by the
Planning Director pursuant to Section 8.48.130 of this Ordinance.
"Native" refers to a tree that is indigenous to the area and is growing in its natural
environment without the benefit of artificial irrigation or maintenance.
2
"Oak Tree" means any oak tree of the genus Quercus including, but not limited
to, California or Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia), Coastal Sage Scrub Oak (Quercus
dumosa), Engelman Oak (Quercus engelmannii), Scrub Oak (Quercus berberidifolia),
and Valley Oak (Quercus lobata).
"Owner" means a legal owner of real property within the City of Temecula or any
lessee of the owner.
"Person" means any individual, firm, association, corporation, organization, or
partnership or any city, county, district, the State or any department or agency thereof.
"Planning Director" means the City's Planning Director, or his or her designee.
"Protected zone" means the area extending horizontally outward from the trunk of
a Heritage Tree to a point five (5) feet beyond the drip line but in no case extending less
than fifteen (15) feet from the trunk.
"Pruning" means the removal of water sprouts, crossed limbs, or other unhealthy
branching structure in accordance with standards established by the International
Society of Arboriculture.
"Relocation" means the transplanting of a tree from its original location to another
suitable location.
"Removal" means the physical removal of a tree or causing the death of a tree
through damaging, poisoning, or other direct or indirect action.
"Right-of-Way" means any dedicated street right-of-way, or recorded easement
for maintenance or utility purposes.
"Routine maintenance" means actions needed for the continued good health of a
Heritage Tree including, but not limited to, removal of deadwood, insect control
spraying, and watering.
"Tree Canopy" means the top layer or crown of mature trees.
"Tree Report" means a report prepared by a certified arborist regarding the
potential impact of development on existing trees; the current health and/or structural
stability of existing trees; the restorative or remedial measures for mitigation of potential
or actual development impacts to existing trees; or the probability of long-term success
of replacement or relocated trees.
8.48.130 Heritage Tree Preservation and Protection Manual
The Planning Director shall formulate and publish administrative rules,
procedures and requirements necessary to implement the provisions of this Ordinance.
Such rules, procedures, and requirements shall be called "The City of Temecula
Heritage Tree Preservation and Protection Manual." The Planning Director shall have
the authority to change, update, or revise the Manual as necessary in order to
implement the provisions of this Ordinance.
8.48.140 Designation of Heritage Trees
A. Any Native specimen of the following species that have reached the
required diameter is a Heritage Tree:
Oak Trees, regardless of size.
2. Platanus racemosa, (California Sycamore) more than twelve (12)
inches in diameter when measured at a point four (4) feet above the natural grade at the
base of the tree.
3. Umbellularia californica, (California Bay Laurel) more than eight (8)
inches in diameter when measured at a point four (4) feet above the natural grade at the
base of the tree.
4. Juglans californica, (California Black Walnut) more than eight (8)
inches in diameter when measured at a point four (4) feet above the natural grade at the
base of the tree.
5. Heteromeles (Photinia) arbutafolia, (California Holly) or (Toyon)
more than eight (8) inches in diameter when measured at a point four (4) feet above the
natural grade at the base of the tree.
B. For purposes of paragraph A of this Section, trees with multiple trunks are
deemed to have reached the required diameter if the sum of the diameters of the
multiple trunks exceeds the diameter required for a single trunk tree by two (2) inches.
C. The Planning Commission or City Council, may, when reviewing a
development application, designate any tree on the site of the proposed development,
regardless of species, as a Heritage tree if it determines the tree should be preserved
and protected as a condition of development due to its age, size, rarity, or appearance.
Any Heritage Tree so designated shall continue to be a Heritage Tree for purposes of
this Ordinance regardless of whether the approved development is ever initiated.
D. Upon application of any member of the public, the Planning Commission
may, after holding a noticed public hearing, designate any tree, regardless of species,
as a Heritage tree if the Owner of the subject tree supports the application and the
Planning Commission determines the tree should be preserved and protected due to its
age, size, rarity, or appearance.
E. Any tree of any size planted as a replacement for a Heritage Tree
pursuant to this Ordinance shall be designated as a Heritage Tree.
8.48.150 Non-Liability of City
Nothing in this Ordinance shall be construed to impose any liability for damages
or a duty of care and maintenance upon the City or its officers, employees, agents, or
volunteers.
Article 2
Cutting, Removal, Relocation, or Encroachment Upon Heritage Trees
8.48.200 Heritage Tree Maintenance and Preservation
8.48.210 Permit Requirement and Exceptions
8.48.220 Permit Application and Review
8.48.230 Standards of Approval
8.48.200 Heritage Tree Maintenance and Preservation
A. All owners of real property on which a Heritage Tree is located and that is
improved, approved for development, or part of or associated with the approved
development of another piece of property, including but not limited to property required
to be maintained as permanent open space or for recreational purposes, shall maintain
such Heritage Trees in a state of good health. Failure to do so will constitute a violation
of this Ordinance.
B. Damaging a Heritage Tree is prohibited. Each action that damages a
Heritage Tree shall be a separate violation.
8.48.210 Permit Requirement and Exceptions
A. Except as allowed under paragraph B of this Section, no person shall cut,
remove, or relocate a Heritage Tree, or encroach into the protected zone of any
Heritage Tree without first obtaining a Heritage Tree Permit from the City in accordance
with the provisions of this Ordinance, the Heritage Tree Preservation and Protection
Manual, and all applicable provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act.
B. A Heritage Tree may be cut, removed, relocated, or encroached upon
without a Heritage Tree Permit only under the following circumstances:
1. A peace officer, fireman, civil defense official, or code enforcement
officer has determined in his or her official capacity that the tree poses an imminent
danger to the public or to property, in which case the tree may be cut, removed,
relocated, or encroached upon only to the extent necessary to avoid the danger
presented. The Planning Department shall be promptly noticed of the nature of the
emergency and action taken.
2. Fire Department personnel actively engaged in fighting a fire have
determined that removal of the tree is necessary to their firefighting efforts.
5
3. The tree is less than ten (10) inches in diameter and is held for sale
by a licensed nursery.
4. The tree is within the boundaries of an occupied residential parcel
less than one half (1/2) acre in size and the owner has consented to the cutting,
removal, relocation, or encroachment.
5. Pruning and routine maintenance necessary to avoid casting a
shadow upon a solar power collector located on the property of another.
6. City staff has determined it is necessary to cut, remove, relocate, or
encroach upon the tree to prepare a site or undertake an approved capital improvement
project that has received environmental clearances under the California Environmental
Quality Act.
7. The Director of Public Works or the City Traffic Engineer has
directed the cutting, removal, relocation, or encroachment in order to (i) maintain public
rights-of-way or adequate line-of-sight distances; and (ii) construct improvements within
existing or proposed General Plan Circulation Element rights-of-way, adjacent slopes,
and appurtenances.
8. Cutting, removal, relocation, or encroachment is required to widen
a Principal Intersection to accommodate additional dedicated turning lanes in
accordance with adopted goals, objectives and policies contained in the General Plan
Circulation Element.
9. Cutting, removal, relocation, or encroachment occurs as part of
Construction or maintenance activities for facilities owned or operated by or for a
governmental agency, quasi-public agency, or a utility company under the jurisdiction of
the public utilities commission.
8.48.220 Permit Application and Review
A. An applicant for a Heritage Tree Permit shall submit an application on a
form designated by the Planning Director and pay the appropriate filing fee as set by
Council resolution.
B. If an application for a Heritage Tree Permit pertains to five (5) of fewer
trees located on a single parcel, the Planning Director shall review the application and
approve, deny, or conditionally approve the request. The Planning Director's decision
may be appealed to the Planning Commission, which may uphold, modify, or reverse
the decision of the Planning Director.
C. The Planning Commission shall review all applications for a Heritage Tree
Permit not reviewed in the first instance by the Planning Director. The Planning
Commission shall approv6, deny, or conditionally approve the request. The Planning
Commission's review shall be consolidated with its consideration of all other entitlement
applications for the property, if any.
s
D. All decisions of the Planning Commission pursuant to this Ordinance may
be appealed to the City Council in accordance with Chapter 2.36 of the Temecula
Municipal Code.
8.48.230 Standards of Approval
A. An application for a Heritage Tree Permit may only be approved if the
decision-maker finds and determines that the requested cutting, removal, relocation, or
encroachment is necessary to:
1. Maintain or aid the health, balance, or structure of the Heritage
Tree;
2. Protect life or property from a danger posed by the Heritage Tree
that cannot be reduced or eliminated by use of reasonable preservation and/or
preventative procedures and practices; or
3. Enable the reasonable and conforming use of the property, which is
otherwise prevented by the presence of the tree.
B. When deciding whether to approve, deny, or conditionally approve a
Heritage Tree Permit, the decision maker may consider the following factors:
1. Whether a public purpose is being provided by the project or if the
removal is primarily to facilitate private development;
2. The overall condition, species, approximate age, size and general
health of the Heritage Tree(s) to be removed;
3. An arborist's report on the likelihood for survival of any Heritage
Tree(s) to be relocated;
4. The species, size and number of replacement tree(s) being
provided as mitigation; and
5. Other factors as appropriate, in accordance with the Heritage Tree
Preservation and Protection Manual.
C. The decision maker may impose conditions to offset or mitigate the
requested cutting, removal, relocation, or encroachment, including, but not limited to,
any of the following:
1. The relocation of the subject tree to another location on-site or off-
site.
2. The planting on-site or off-site of replacement trees of the same or
similar species, having the approximate size, age and health as the Heritage Trees to
be removed at a 2:1 ratio;
3. The initiation of an objectively observable maintenance and care
program in accordance with the Heritage Tree Preservation and Protection Manual to
insure the continued health and care of Heritage Trees on the property;
4. Payment of a fee equal to the cost of procuring, planting,
establishing, and maintaining replacement trees on a 2:1 basis, which cost shall be
based on the latest edition of either the "Guide for Plant Appraisal" by the International
Society of Arboriculture or the "Standards for Valuation of Amenity Trees" of the
International Society of Arboriculture. Such payments shall be used solely to fund the
cost of replacing trees that have been removed.
Article 3
Violations and Enforcement
8.48.300
Violations
8.48.310
Remedies
8.48.320
Restitution
8.48.330
Collection of Penalties
8.48.300 Violations
A. Violations of this ordinance are subject to criminal misdemeanor penalties
and civil penalties pursuant to Chapters 1.21 and 1.24, respectively, of the Temecula
Municipal Code.
B. Intimidating, harassing, or otherwise retaliating against any person who
seeks to attain compliance with this Ordinance is prohibited.
C. Causing, permitting, aiding, abetting or concealing a violation of any
provision of this Ordinance is prohibited.
D. A violation of this chapter is declared to be a public nuisance.
8.48.310 Remedies
A. The remedies provided by this Ordinance are cumulative and in addition to
any other remedies available at law or in equity. The City may seek to remedy any
violation of this Ordinance by a civil action, including, without limitation, administrative or
judicial nuisance abatement proceedings, civil or criminal code enforcement
proceedings, and suits for injunctive relief.
B. If a violation occurs during development, the City may issue a stop work
order suspending and prohibiting further activity on the property pursuant to the grading,
demolition, and/or building permit(s) (including construction, inspection, and the
issuance of Certificates of Occupancy) until a Mitigation Plan has been filed by the
developer and approved by the Planning Director.
C. If a violation occurs in the absence of development, or while an application
for a building permit or discretionary development approval is pending for the property
upon which the tree is located, the Planning Director may: (1) request the City Council
issue a temporary moratorium on development of the subject property pursuant to law;
or (2) issue a stop work order halting all activity on the parcel. The purpose of this stop
of activity shall be to provide the City an opportunity to determine appropriate mitigation
measures, if any, for the tree removal and to ensure such measures are incorporated
into any future or pending development approvals for the property. Mitigation measures
may be imposed as a condition of any subsequent permits for development on the
subject property.
8.48.320 Restitution
A. In addition to any other remedy or penalty provided for by the Ordinance,
the City may seek restitution from any person who damages, removes, or relocates a
Heritage Tree in violation of this Ordinance in the form the replacement of the Heritage
Tree so removed or damaged or a fine in lieu of restitution. The Planning Director shall
determine the form of restitution required.
1. If the Planning Director determines that restitution should be made
in the form of a replacement of the Heritage Trees removed or damaged, the
replacement trees shall be the same or similar species of tree, having the approximate
size, age and health as the tree(s) damaged or destroyed, at a 2:1 ratio. The location of
such plantings shall be determined by the Planning Director;
2. If the Planning Director determines that payment should be made in
lieu of restitution, the payment required shall include but is not limited to, the costs of
procuring, planting, establishing, and maintaining replacement trees. The cost of the
replacement tree shall be based on the latest edition of either the "Guide for Plant
Appraisal" by the International Society of Arboriculture or the "Standards for Valuation of
Amenity Trees" of the International Society of Arboriculture. Payments made in lieu of
restitution shall be used solely to fund the cost of replacing trees that have been
damaged or removed in violation of this Ordinance.
B. If the size of a Heritage Tree cannot be determined due to its unauthorized
removal, the size shall be determined by measuring the stump that remains, anecdotal
evidence, or interpolated from photographs or adjacent trees. The Planning Director
shall presume that a missing Heritage Tree was in perfect health, unless the
photographs or other verifiable evidence demonstrates otherwise.
8.48.330 Collection of Penalties
A. Fines and payments in lieu of restitution for violation of this Ordinance are
payable at the City's Finance/Cashier office. Fines must be paid within thirty (30)
business days. The City's Finance Department is authorized to collect all unpaid civil
fines.
9
B. Any unpaid costs or penalties, or payments in lieu of restitution imposed
pursuant to this Ordinance shall constitute a special assessment against the real
property upon which a violation of this Ordinance has occurred. All costs and/or fines
shall be itemized in a written report of assessment. The Planning Director shall cause a
copy of the report and assessment to be served on the owner of the property not less
than five days prior to the time fixed for confirmation of the assessment. Service may
be made by enclosing a copy of the report of assessment in a sealed envelope, postage
prepaid, addressed to the owner at his or her last known address as the same appears
on the last equalized assessment rolls of the County of Riverside and depositing the
same in the United States mail. Service shall be deemed complete at the time of
mailing.
C. A copy of the report of assessment shall be posted in the City Clerk's
office on the bulletin board designated for the posting of agendas, not less than three
days prior to the time when the report shall be submitted to the City Council. The City
Council shall hear the report, together with any objections by the property owner. After
the assessment is made and confirmed by the City Council, it shall be a lien on said
property. The lien shall be turned over to the Riverside County Tax Collector, where it
shall be levied on the next regular property tax bills for said property, and collected at
the same time and in the same manner as other municipal taxes are collected, and shall
be subject to the same penalties and procedures under foreclosure and sale in case of
delinquency as provided for other municipal taxes.
10
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Temecula
this day of ,
Maryann Edwards, Mayor
ATTEST:
Susan W. Jones, MMC
City Clerk
[SEAL]
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE ) ss
CITY OF TEMECULA )
I, Susan W. Jones, MMC, City Clerk of the City of Temecula, do hereby certify that
the foregoing Ordinance No. - was duly introduced and placed upon its first reading
at a meeting of the City Council of the City of Temecula on the day of , ,
and that thereafter, said Ordinance was duly adopted by the City Council of the City of
Temecula at a meeting thereof held on the day of , , by the following vote:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
ABSTAIN: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
Susan W. Jones, MMC
City Clerk
11
CITY OF TEMECULA
HERITAGE TREE PRESERVATION
AND PROTECTION MANUAL
- ary
a`" 1 * ~ 1A 4
s
` rRr 4th ~ ~r
Approved 2009
HERITAGE TREE PRESERVATION
AND PROTECTION MANUAL
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION .......................................................................................................................3
Section 1.0 GENERAL PROVISIONS
1.1 Heritage Tree Preservation and Protection Manual 4
1.2 Purpose 4
1.3 Adoption and Revisions .....................................................................................4
1.4 Criteria for Determination of Heritage Trees .....................................................4
Section 2.0 LAND DEVELOPMENT AND HERITAGE TREES
2.1
Pre-Construction
................6
2.2
Activities During Construction
6
2.3
Grading, Soil Compaction and Root Protection
6
2.4
Trenching, Excavation and Equipment Use
7
2.5
Tunneling and Directional Drilling
................7
2.6
Root Cutting
8
2.7
Maintenance of Heritage Trees During Construction
8
2.8
Tree Removal or Relocation
9
2.9
Tree Pruning, Removal or Relocation Permit Required
9
2.10
Exceptions
9
Section 3.0
TREE PRESERVATION AND PROTECTION PLAN
3.1
Standard Plan Requirements
..............10
3.2
Site Plan
..............10
3.3
Photographs
..............12
3.4
General information
..............12
Section 4.0
DEFINITIONS
..............14
Section 5.0
HERITAGE TREE INVENTORY LISTING
5.1
Zone Identification
..............18
5.2
Sensitive and Protected Areas
..............18
5.3
Heritage Tree Nomination Process
..............18
APPENDICES
A.
Heritage Tree Preservation Zones
B.
Riparian Areas
C.
Important Wildlife Movement Corridors
D.
Heritage Tree Pruning/Removal Permit Application
E.
Heritage Tree Nomination Form
2
CITY OF TEMECULA
HERITAGE TREE PRESERVATION
AND PROTECTION MANUAL
INTRODUCTION
The City of Temecula lies within a unique area of Riverside County, the beauty and
welfare of which is greatly enhanced by the presence of several species of native and
non-native trees of significant size and quality that contribute in a positive way to our
community's environment and heritage. Sustaining our "Heritage Trees" in such a
rapidly developing area presents a challenge that requires careful planning and attentive
maintenance.
Land Development is a complex process and is even more challenging when trees are
involved, and construction activity is one of the greatest causes of decline and death to
Heritage Trees within the City. Tree protection should not begin subsequent to
construction. If preservation measures are delayed or ignored until construction begins,
the trees may be destined to fail. Successful tree preservation occurs when construction
impacts to trees are minimized or avoided altogether. The challenge is to determine
when impacts will be too severe for the tree to survive, not only in the short term but also
in the long term.
Although there are not quantitative methods to calculate these impacts, the following
Heritage Tree Preservation and Protection Manual has been prepared to provide
guidelines that enhance the protection of Heritage Trees from preventable damage from
vandalism and land development activities. By assuring preservation and protection
through regulation and standards of care, our Heritage Trees will continue to add to the
unique character of the City of Temecula and its Urban Forest.
3
SECTION 1.0
GENERAL PROVISIONS
1.1 Heritage Tree Preservation and Protection Manual
The Heritage Tree Preservation and Protection Manual ("Manual') is to be used
in conjunction with the City of Temecula Heritage Tree Ordinance ("Ordinance").
This Manual is not a stand-alone document, but must be read in conjunction with
the provisions of the Ordinance. In the instance of a conflict, the Ordinance shall
control.
1.2 Purpose
The purpose of this Manual is to assist users of the Ordinance by supplementing
it with detailed information regarding policies, procedures, interpretations,
standard requirements, and other information applicable to the preservation and
protection of Heritage Trees.
1.3 Adoption and Revisions
The Planning Director shall have the authority to change, update or revise the
Manual as necessary in order to implement the provisions of the Manual. In the
event of any conflict between the Ordinance and this Manual, the Ordinance shall
govern. The provisions of the Manual, to the extent they are made conditions of
a permit issued by the City, shall be binding. All revisions to the Manual shall be
reviewed and approved by the City Council and take effect immediately upon
approval.
1.4 Criteria for Determination of Heritage Trees
Factors considered in determining if a tree qualifies as a "Heritage Tree" are the
age, size, rarity and appearance of the tree. Notwithstanding the preceding,
each of the following is determined to be a Heritage Tree:
1. Native Oak Trees located within areas identified by the General Plan
Land Use map as Open Space, or otherwise protected lands such as riparian
areas, important wildlife movement corridors (MSHCP) and conservation
easements, regardless of the size or age of the tree(s).
2. Native tree species having a diameter as defined in Section 4.0,
Definitions, of this manual, measured at a height of four (4) feet above ground
level, regardless of its location. Multiple trunk trees having a combined trunk
diameter of two (2) or more inches larger than the minimum single-trunk diameter
shall also meet the size requirement.
3. A tree or trees of any size planted as a replacement for a Heritage Tree
4
4. A tree or trees designated by the Planning Commission and/or City
Council to be protected in place by the existing or underlying Conditions of
Approval.
5. Any tree or trees designated by the Planning Commission and/or City
Council through the approval of a Heritage Tree Nomination Application.
Applications shall be accepted from the public at large. Such application and
acceptance criteria are contained in Appendix F of this Heritage Tree
Preservation and Policy Manual.
5
SECTION 2.0
LAND DEVELOPMENT AND HERITAGE TREES
2.1 Pre-Construction
A. Tree Preservation and Protection Plan. If it is determined that a Heritage
Tree exists on property to be developed, the Planning Director will require
a site specific Tree Preservation and Protection Plan and an evaluation
pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act of 1970, as amended
("CEQA"), to affect the purpose of this Manual. (Please refer to the
submittal requirements identified in Section 3.0, "Tree Preservation and
Protection Plan" of this Manual.
B. Pre-Construction Meeting. The Planning Director, or their representative,
may require an on-site pre-construction meeting with the contractor
and/or applicant to discuss tree protection with the site supervisor,
grading equipment contractors and demolition crews to assure that
everyone fully understands the procedures and tree protective measures
concerning the project site, staging areas, haul routes, watering, contacts,
etc.
C. Site Inspections. In addition, the Planning Director may require
inspection by City staff to verify placement of protective fencing and
approval of materials prior to commencement of construction. In addition,
periodic inspections will be conducted to verify adherence to the tree
protection measures during the on-going construction process.
2.2 Activities During Construction
Soil disturbance or other damaging activities within the Tree Protection Zone is
prohibited unless approved by a certified arborist to the satisfaction of the
Planning Director.
2.3 Grading, Soil Compaction and Root Protection
The greatest increase in soil density occurs during the first few equipment
passes over the soil. To dispense traffic weight, mulch and temporary root
buffers can be used. The following guidelines can help to lessen compaction:
A. Do not park vehicles or equipment, storage of building materials, refuse,
or excavated soils, or dump poisonous materials on or around trees and
roots. (Poisonous materials include, but are not limited to, paint,
petroleum, concrete, stucco mix, dirty water or any material that may be
harmful to the tree.)
6
B. Do not compact soil to higher density than required in improved areas for
asphalt or concrete pavements, and not to exceed 85% density in
unimproved landscape areas.
2.4
2.5
C. Grade changes within the Tree Protection Zone are not permitted. At no
time during or after construction should soil be in contact with the trunk of
the tree above the basal flair.
D. Grade changes outside of the Tree Protection Zone shall not significantly
alter drainage.
Trenching, Excavation and Equipment Use
A. Trenching, excavation or boring within the Tree Protection Zone shall be
limited to activities approved by a certified arborist. Alternatives should
be explored for trenching outside the root zone.
B. Avoid exposing roots during hot weather. Backfill trenches as soon as
possible with soil and soak with water the same day. Small roots can die
in 10 to 15 minutes and large roots may not survive an hour of exposure.
If the trench must be left open all roots must be kept moist by wrapping
them in peat moss and burlap.
C. If trenching is unavoidable, the following minimum distances shall be
maintained:
Oak Tree, any size 5 feet beyond (away from
California Sycamore, 12 inches or more trunk) the drip line of the tree
California Bay Laurel, 8 inches or more or 15 feet away from the
California Black Walnut, 8 inches or more trunk, whichever is greater.
California Holly or Toyon, 8 inches or more
* Or as determined by a certified arborist
D. Excavation. Any approved excavation, demolition or extraction of
material shall be performed with equipment that is placed outside the
Tree Protection Zone. Hand digging, hydraulic, or pneumatic excavation
are permitted methods for excavation within the Tree Protection Zone.
E. Equipment. Use of backhoes, Ditch-Witches, steal tread tractors or other
heavy vehicles within the Tree Protection Zone is prohibited unless
approved by a certified arborist. Do not use tree trunks as a back stop,
winch support, anchorage, as a temporary power pole, signpost or other
similar function.
Tunneling and Directional Drilling
A. Trenching, pipe or cable installation within the Tree Protection Zone shall
be either cut by hand, air-spade, or by mechanically boring a tunnel under
7
the roots with a horizontal directional drill using hydraulic or pneumatic air
excavation technology. In all cases, install the utility pipe immediately,
backfill with soil and soak with water within the same day.
B. Where acceptable, tunneling under the root system can greatly reduce
both damage to the tree and the cost to repair landscape and other
features destroyed in the trenching process. The following
recommendations for tunneling depths are provided as follows:
TRUNK DIAMETER
(measured 4 feet above natural grade)
MINIMUM TUNNEL DEPTH*
12 inches or less
24 inches
More than 12 inches
Winches
*Or as determined by a certified arborist.
2.6 Root Cutting
Cutting of tree roots by utility trenching, digging foundations, placement of curbs
and trenches, or other excavations requires prior approval of the Planning
Director. No roots greater than 6 inches in circumference shall be cut without
direction from a certified arborist. In the instance where root cutting is
unavoidable, cuts should be clean and made at right angles to the roots. When
practical, cut roots back to a branching lateral root.
2.7 Maintenance of Heritage Trees During Construction
Providing adequate maintenance can mitigate stressful changes that occur to a
Heritage Tree's environment during construction. To remain healthy, the tree
needs to maintain stored carbohydrates and preserve the effectiveness of its
growth regulators. It is recommended that development projects provide:
A. Soil Compaction Mitigation. To prevent negligent encroachment into the
Tree Protection Zone, trees to be preserved during construction must
have the specified type of protection fences in place at all times.
Removal of fences, even temporarily, to allow deliveries or equipment
access is not allowed unless approved by a certified arborist and a root
buffer is installed. The root buffer components; mulch, gravel and
plywood must be maintained continually to assure its effectiveness
against soil compaction.
B. Mulch: During construction, wood chips may be spread within the Tree
Protection Zone to a four to six (4 to 6) inch depth, leaving the trunk clear
of mulch. This will aid in inadvertent soil compaction and moisture loss.
Mulch shall be 2-inch (2") unpainted, untreated shredded wood or other
approved material.
C. Root Buffer: When areas under the tree canopy cannot be fenced, a
temporary buffer is required and shall cover the root zone and remain in
place at the specified thickness until the final grading stage. The
8
protective buffer shall consist of shredded wood chips spread over the
roots at a minimum of 6-inches (6") in depth (keeping the trunk clear of
chips), and layered by %-inch quarry gravel to stabilize the %-inch
plywood sheets laid on top. Steel plates can also be used.
D. Irrigation. Providing supplemental irrigation for trees under water stress
may be the single most important treatment. Irrigation should be
designed to wet the soil within the Tree Protection Zone to the depth of
the root zone and to replace that water once it is depleted. Light, frequent
irrigation should be avoided. Create a 6 inch berm around trees at the
edge of the Tree Protection Zone and fill with no more than 6 inches of
mulch. Fill the basin with water. Irrigation should wet the top 2 to 3 feet
of soil to replicate similar volumes and normal rainfall patterns.
E. Erosion Control. If a tree is adjacent to or in the immediate proximity to a
grade slope of 8% or more, approved erosion control or silt barrier shall
be installed outside of the Tree Protection Zone to prevent siltation or
erosion within the zone.
F. Dust Control. During extended periods of drought, wind or grading,
trunks, limbs and foliage should be sprayed with water to remove
accumulated construction dust.
2.8 Tree Removal or Relocation
The proposed removal or relocation of a Heritage Tree must be approved by the
Planning Director in accordance with the Heritage Tree Ordinance. Trees that
have become structurally unstable, in poor health, or unable to survive the effects
of construction become a liability to public safety and should be removed. This
Manual acknowledges that conflicts between Heritage Trees and development
may sometimes result in the removal of trees, and recognizes the detrimental
effect to the project and community when these trees die after construction is
completed. Where removal of a Heritage Tree is necessary, the Planning
Director shall determine the appropriate mitigation measures to be provided so
as to preserve the beauty and character of the Community.
2.9 Tree Pruning, Removal or Relocation Permit Required
No person shall cut, remove, encroach into the protected zone, or relocate any
Heritage Tree on any public or private property within the City unless a valid
Heritage Tree Pruning-Removal Permit has been issued by the City in
accordance with the provisions of this manual. An example of the Heritage Tree
Pruning-Removal Permit is attached to this manual as Appendix E, and copies
may be obtained from the Planning Department or the City's website at
www.citvoftemecula.org.
2.10 Exceptions
A permit is not required to cut, encroach, remove, or relocate a Heritage Tree(s)
under the circumstances identified in the Heritage Tree Ordinance.
9
SECTION 3.0
TREE PRESERVATION AND PROTECTION PLAN
The items listed below are basic submittal requirements to be included in the Tree
Preservation and Protection Plan. As each project is unique, the applicant should
consult with City staff to determine exact submittal requirements.
3.1 Standard Plan Requirements:
A. Clearly differentiate between existing and proposed site improvements on
all plans.
B. Include preparer's name, title, license number, address, and telephone
number (preparer must be a Certified Arborist, Landscape Architect or
other qualified professional approved by the Planning Director).
C. Include project title, project address, and property owner's name.
D. Provide date of last revision, north arrow, and drawn to scale (no smaller
than 1" = 40'-0")
E. Label all property lines; include existing and proposed easements.
F. Label and provide width of existing and proposed roadways, access
driveways, improvements within the public right-of-ways.
3.2 Site Plan:
The Site Plan shall identify the following information:
A. Trees
1. All trees, regardless of size, and show exact locations to scale. The
tree's species and common name must be directly on the plan or
keyed to a legend.
2. All designated Heritage Trees in accordance with Section 1.4; "Criteria
for Determination of Heritage Trees" of this Manual.
3. Heritage Trees immediately adjacent to the property must also be
identified on the plan.
4. The diameter of each tree measured at a height of 4 feet above
ground level.
5. Indicate whether the tree is a single or multi-trunk, and to be removed
or preserved.
10
6. If symbols are used for trees, a different symbol must be used for
each species.
B. Tree Protection Zone. Tree roots are generally located in the top 12-24
inches of soil and can extend to a distance exceeding the height of the
tree and/or width. The roots located 1-5 feet from the trunk are often
relatively inactive, and if cut, will cause a column of decay that can reach
the top of a tree over time. The feeder roots of the tree can sustain
damage during construction from lack of water, soil compaction or
physical damage from cutting.
1. Indicate that no construction staging, parking, storage or disposal of
construction materials or byproducts, including but not limited to paint,
plaster, or chemical solutions is allowed in the Tree Protection Zone.
2. Where mulch is required, show the mulch area and indicate mulch
materials and depth in accordance with Section III (A); "Soil
Compaction Mitigation" of this Manual.
3. Include notes or measures to maintain and/or improve the health of
the protected Heritage Trees, such as schedule of watering during
construction, deadwood removal, pest management or other
practices.
C. Protective Fencing. For all Heritage Trees to be preserved on site,
clearly identify the fencing protecting the Tree Protection Zone with a bold
dashed line. The protective fencing must be located outside of the Tree
Protection Zone and erected before demolition, grading, or construction
begins and remain until final inspection of the project.
1. All trees to be preserved shall be protected with five to six (5 to 6) foot
high chain link fences or other material(s) approved by the Director of
Planning.
2. Fences are to be mounted on two-inch (2") galvanized iron posts or
untreated 4" x 4" wood posts, driven into the ground to a depth of at
least two-feet (2) and at no more than ten-foot (10) centers.
Concrete shall not be used to reinforce posts.
3. A two-foot (2) wide gate shall be installed for tree maintenance.
4. A warning sign shall be prominently displayed on each protective
fence. The sign shall be a minimum of 8.5 inches x 11 inches and
clearly state the following:
TREE PROTECTION ZONE
This Fence Shall Not be Removed
11
D.
E.
Utilities and Easements.:
1. Show location of existing and/or proposed utility lines (above and
below grade) and width, depth, and method of tunneling or digging
any proposed trenches.
2. Show point of connection for utilities and controllers.
3. Show width and location of all
easements and watercourses;
drainage structures.
existing and/or proposed drainage
indicate existing and/or proposed
Miscellaneous:
1. Indicate location, width, and depth of all trenches for footings including
excavations for any subsurface improvement.
2. Show existing and proposed contour lines.
3. Outline and label all existing or proposed structures (including walls,
fences, construction trailers, etc.), drawn to scale, and shown in their
exact location.
4. Identify staging areas, storage location for construction materials and
equipment, and vehicular and equipment ingress and egress.
5. Indicate location, width, depth and method of tunneling or digging of
proposed trenches for irrigation lines (mainlines and lateral lines).
3.3 Photographs:
A. Provide photographs of protected Heritage Trees that shows the form and
orientation on the property, as well as the conditions on the site.
B. Photographs must be labeled with the property address or Assessor's
Parcel Number (APN), date, and keyed to a site plan showing the
viewpoint in which the photograph was taken.
3.4 General Information:
A. Tree Pruning or Removal: Prior to construction, Heritage Tees may need
to be pruned away from structures or proposed construction activity.
Construction or contractor personnel shall not attempt pruning.
Heritage trees must be pruned by, or under the direction of, a certified
arborist.
B. Grading, Trenching and Drainage: Grading, trenching and soil
compaction activities are the factors most responsible for the decline of
Heritage Trees on construction sites. All construction activities near
12
designated Tree Protection Zones shall comply with Section 2.0, "Land
Development and Heritage Trees" of this Manual.
C. Erosion Control: If a tree is adjacent to or in the immediate proximity to a
grade slope of 8% or more, a City-approved erosion control or silt barrier
shall be identified on the Site Plan and installed outside of the Tree
Protection Zone to prevent siltation or erosion within the Tree Protection
Zone.
D. Certified Arborist to Remove Trees. Removal of trees adjacent to
Heritage trees that are to remain requires a great amount of care and
expertise. Only a certified arborist shall engage in tree removal.
Construction or contractor personnel shall not attempt tree removal
unless it occurs at the express instruction of the certified arborist at the
time the certified arborist is on-site to supervise the tree removal.
13
SECTION 4.0
DEFINITIONS
"Applicant" means any person corporation, partnership association of any type, public
agency or other legal entity who submits an application for land development pursuant to
this Manual.
"Basal Flair" means the tree trunk where it emerges from the root system and flairs out
to create the base of the tree.
"Certified Arborist" or "Consulting Arborist" means, for purposes of this Manual, an
arborist who is registered in good standing with the International Society of Arboriculture
(ISA) and is in possession of a City of Temecula business license.
"City" means the City of Temecula.
"Cutting" means the detaching or separating from a Heritage Tree any live limb or
branch over one inch (1") in diameter, any pruning which changes the shape or natural
character of the tree or any branch removal that removes more of the tree canopy than
recommended under International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Standards.
"Damage" means any action that causes permanent injury, death or disfigurement to a
Heritage Tree. This may include, but is not limited to cutting, poisoning, over watering,
withholding water, unauthorized relocating or transplanting of a Heritage tree; including
trenching, excavating, or paving within Tree Protection Zone..
"Disfigurement" means the unsightly and injurious trimming of a Heritage Tree. This
shall include tree-trimming practices not in conformance with ISA standards. It shall
include pruning practices such as stubbing, heading, heading back, stubbing off,
pollarding, tipping, topping off, de-horning, lopping or rounding of any Heritage Trees.
"Deadwood" means limbs, branches, or a portion of a tree that contains no green
leaves during a period of the year when they should be present.
"Designated Heritage Tree" means those trees possessing the qualifying attributes of
a Heritage Tree and identified on the Heritage Tree Inventory Listing attached to this
Manual.
"Development" means the improvement of any real property which requires the
approval of zoning, subdivision, conditional use permits, or site development review
permits.
"Director" means the Planning Director, or his or her designee.
"Drip line" means a limiting line, for tree protection purposes, of the outermost area of
the tree canopy (leafy area), and within which no construction or disturbance shall occur.
"Encroachment" means any intrusion or human activity into the protected zone of a
Heritage Tree including, but not limited to, pruning, grading, excavating, trenching,
14
parking of vehicles, storage of materials or equipment, or the construction of structures
or other improvements.
"Heritage Tree" shall mean a tree that because of its size, age, historical or cultural
significance, or unique and irreplaceable values to the community needs to be preserved
and safeguarded as a symbol of the City's heritage, beauty and image. Heritage Trees
shall include specimens of the following species which have reached the designated
maturity (diameter): Platanus racemosa, (California Sycamore) which exceed twelve (12)
inches in diameter when measured at a point four (4) feet above the natural grade at the
base of the tree; Umbellularia californica, (California Bay Laurel) which exceed eight (8)
inches in diameter when measured at a point four (4) feet above the natural grade at the
base of the tree; Juglans californica, (California Black Walnut) which exceed eight (8)
inches in diameter when measured at a point four (4) feet above the natural grade at the
base of the tree; Heteromeles (Photinia) arbutafolia, (California Holly) or (Toyon) which
exceeds eight (8) inches in diameter when measured at a point four (4) feet above the
natural grade at the base of the tree. Trees with multiple trunks shall be deemed to have
reached maturity if the sum of the diameters of the multiple trunks exceeds the required
diameter plus two (2) inches of a single trunked tree. Heritage Trees shall also include
all designated oak trees. Likewise, Heritage Trees shall also include any tree(s), of any
type, designated as Heritage Trees by the Planning Commission or City Council during
review of any land use entitlement request and which trees are required to be preserved
as a condition of that City approved entitlement, land division, or tract map. This
designation shall continue whether or not the use for which the entitlement is issued is
inaugurated or the land division or tract map is recorded.
"Heritage Tree Preservation and Policy Manual" shall mean the policy established by
the City Council and the administrative procedures and rules established by the Planning
Director for implementing this chapter.
"Native Tree" shall mean any tree that is indigenous to the area and is growing in its
natural environment without the benefit of man-made irrigation or maintenance.
"Non-Native Tree" shall mean any invasive tree species artificially introduced to the
area, or any tree planted in accordance with an approved landscape plan.
"Oak tree" shall mean any oak tree of the genus Quercus including, but not limited to,
California or Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia), Coastal Sage Scrub Oak (Quercus
dumosa), Engelman Oak (Quercus engelmannii), Scrub Oak (Quercus berberidifolia),
and Valley Oak (Quercus lobata), regardless of size.
"Ornamental Tree" shall mean a non-flowering deciduous or evergreen tree planted
primarily for its ornamental value or screening purposes, and tending to be smaller at
maturity than a shade tree.
"Owner" means the legal owner of real property within the City of Temecula and any
lessee of the owner.
"Person" means any individual, firm, association, corporation, organization, or
partnership or any city, county, district, the State or any department or agency thereof.
(14 Cal. Code of Regulations, Sec.3501)
15
"Planning Director" or "Director" means the Director of Planning of the City of
Temecula, or his or her duly delegated representative.
"Protected Zone" or "Root Protection Zone" or "Tree Protection Zone" shall mean
a specifically defined area totally encompassing a Heritage Tree within which work
activities are strictly controlled. When depicted on a map, the outermost edge of the
protected zone will appear as an irregular shaped circle that follows the contour of the
drip line of the tree. Using the drip line as a point of reference, the protected zone shall
commence at a point five (5) feet outside of the drip line and extend inward to the trunk
of the tree. In no case shall the protected zone be less than fifteen (15) feet from the
trunk of a Heritage Tree.
"Pruning" means the removal of water sprouts, crossed limbs, or other unhealthy
branching structure as designated by the ISA. Such removal shall not change the
natural form of the tree, shall not consist of stubbing or heading back branches, and
shall in no case consist of removing more of the total tree canopy than recommended
under ISA.
"Relocation" means the transplanting of a tree from its original location to another
suitable location.
"Removal" means the physical removal of a tree, or causing the death or untimely
decline or a tree through actions including but not limited to damage, destruction,
unnecessary disfigurement, withholding water, poisoning, or other deliberate or willful
action or inaction.
"Right-of-Way" or "Public Right-of-Way" means, for purposes of this Ordinance, the
dedicated street right-of-way, or recorded easements for routine maintenance and/or
utility purposes, located within the City of Temecula.
"Routine Maintenance" means the actions needed for the continued health of the tree
including but not limited to, the removal of deadwood or storm damaged branches, light
pruning to improve scaffolding, and removal of branches less than one inch (1") in
diameter.
"Site" means the real property on which activities subject to this Manual may occur
"Street Tree" shall mean any tree located in a City street right of way between the edge
of pavement and the adjacent property line.
"Tree" means, for purposes of this Manual, a Heritage Tree.
"Tree Canopy" means the top layer or crown of mature trees.
"Tree Report" means a report prepared by an arborist for the potential impact of
development on existing trees; the current health and/or structural stability of existing
trees; the restorative or remedial measures for mitigation of potential or actual
development impacts to existing trees; and/or the probability of long-term success of
replacement or relocated trees.
"Trimming" (see "Cutting")
16
"Underdeveloped Property" means those land areas incorporating larger open space
or recreational uses that could be developed to a higher and best use.
"Undeveloped Property" means vacant land that has not been developed for any
beneficial purpose.
"Urban Forest" means the natural resource composed of all tree on public and private
property within the City limits and sphere of influence.
17
Section 5.0
HERITAGE TREE INVENTORY LISTING
Staff has completed a City-wide inventory of potential Heritage Tree locations or "zones"
using the City's Global Positioning System (GPS). Prior to development, follow-up field
visits may be necessary to confirm the species, health and desirability of such trees in
accordance with the provisions of this Manual.
5.1 Zone Identification:
The Heritage Tree Inventory and Zone Listing is attached to this Manual as Appendix A
and provides useful information to property owners, private contractors and City
employees whenever any development activity is planned or performed near potential
Heritage Tree Zones. The inventory will be updated on an annual basis to establish a
baseline of where the Heritage Tree population has been, where it is today, and where it
is going in the future. While it is expected that most development projects that follow
this Manual will reduce project impacts on Heritage Trees to a level of insignificance, this
Manual does not exempt a project from being reviewed pursuant to the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and being evaluated for significant project impacts to
Heritage Trees.
5.2 Sensitive and Protected Areas:
In particular, native trees located within areas identified by the General Plan Land Use
map as Open Space, or otherwise protected lands such as riparian areas and important
wildlife movement corridors (MSHCP) will be included in the inventory as Heritage
Trees. An exhibit showing the approximate location of riparian areas is included as
Appendix B of this manual. An exhibit showing the approximate location of important
wildlife corridors is included as Appendix C of this manual. The City's Land Use map is
available for viewing at the Planning Department or on the City's website at
www. c it yo ft e me c u l a. o rg .
5.3 Heritage Tree Nomination Process:
The City of Temecula has several species of native and non-native trees of significant
size and quality that contribute in a positive way to our community's environment and
heritage. Healthy and properly maintained trees increase property values, provide
shade and heat dissipation, help to prevent erosion of the topsoil, reduce air pollution,
and improve our psychological well-being and beautify our community.
The purpose of the Heritage Tree Nomination process is to protect and preserve a
variety of native and non-native trees on public and private property whose visual and
historic importance to the community is sufficient to justify special efforts to protect and
preserve them. Heritage Tree Nomination applications shall be accepted from the public
at large when endorsed by the property owner. The Planning Commission shall have
approval authority for Heritage Tree Nomination applications. An example of the
Heritage Tree Nomination form and acceptance criteria is attached to this manual as
18
Appendix D, and copies may be obtained from the Planning Department or the City's
website at www.cityoftemecula.org.
19
Heritage Tree Inventory Listing
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and the Transportation and Land Idanagement Agency of Riverside County.
The City of Temecula assumes no warrantyor legal responsibility forthe information contained on fts map.
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This map is not for reprint or resale.
City of Temecula
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1989
43200 Business Park Drive
P.O. Box 9033
Temecula, California 92589-9033
(951) 694-6400 FAX (951) 694-6477 E-Mail: www.cityoftemecula.org
Herita a Tree Prunin /Relocation/Removal 9► 9►
Planning Application No.
PROJECT INFORMATION
(INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS CANNOT BE ACCEPTED)
TREE DESCRIPTION:
Heritage Tree name (species and common name):
Number of trees:
Street address:
Parcel Number:
Location of Tree: ❑ Front yard ❑ Rear yard ❑ Side yard ❑ Corner-side yard
❑ Public right-of-way❑ Public lands ❑ Not sure
❑ Other:
GPS units (OPTIONAL):
Height feet Average canopy width feet
Circumference at chest level2 inches
Circumference at ground level3 inches
1 Distance from one edge to opposite edge of tree canopy 2 Distance around trunk at 4 ft off the ground. http:l/www.isa-arbor.comlpublications/tree-ord/heritage.aspx
3 Distance around trunk on the ground where the trunk meets the soil.
The Planning Commission will use the following criteria to evaluate each Heritage Tree Application. If you need more space to describe the tree, please attach additional sheets.
APPLICANTIOWNER INFORMATION:
Name of Applicant: _
Address:
City: State: Zip:
Phone (day) Fax E-mail:
Name of Property Owner:
Mailing Address:
City: State: Zip:
REASON FOR WORK BEING DONE: (Briefly describe the reason for pruning, relocating or
removing the Heritage Tree)
Heritage Tree pruning must be performed in accordance with the most recently
Published standards of the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA):
have received and have read a copy of the International Society of Arboriculture requirements
for tree pruning: Yes No
Applicant or Property Owner Name and Signature
I will retain the services of an ISA certified arborist to perform and/or supervise the pruning work
of the Heritage Tree. Yes No
Arborist's Name, Signature, and Certification Number
If the property owner does not retain a certified arborist, the City will require the pruning
work to be monitored by qualified city staff at the property owner's expense.
ActiwN # Case +FOR STAFF USE ONLY+
Description
Fees Paid S Site Inspection Required ❑ Yes ❑ No Site Inspection Date
Monitoring required- ❑ Yes ❑ No Inspector Monitoring date-
Heritage Tree Nomination Form
Disclaimer: Any information you include on this form will be part of the public record.
Anyone may request to see the information you submit for a Heritage Tree nomination.
For more legal information, see the last page of this form.
Who can nominate a Heritage tree?
■ The City Council, Planning Commission, and the head of a City department or
agency may nominate a tree.
■ The head of a City department or agency may nominate a tree on property under
their jurisdiction. City departments and agencies should conduct an internal
approval process before nominating a tree.
■ A property owner may nominate a tree on his or her property.
■ A member of the public may ask an authorized nominator to nominate a tree.
I am one of the following authorized nominators
❑ Property owner
❑ City Council member
❑ Head of a City Department or Agency
❑ Planning Commission member
Please note that a permit will be required for any future removal of a Heritage tree.
Pursuant to Ordinance 09- , the City of Temecula requests the following information.
Authorized nominator (City Council,
Planning Commission, Head of City
Department, Property Owner):
Property owner:
Name
Address
Address
Phone (day)
Fax #
Email
Name
Address
Address
Phone (day)
Fax #
Email
Member of the public who initiated
nomination (if applicable):
Name
Address
Address
Phone (day)
Fax #
Email
I am an authorized nominator and I support this nomination.
Signature
Date
I am the property owner and I grant permission for city staff to evaluate the nominated
tree on the property with advance notice.
Signature
Date
1 Date Stamp
1989 43200 Business Park Drive
P.O. Box 9033
Temecula, California 92589-9033
(951) 694-6400 FAX (951) 694-6477
E-Mail: www.cityoftemecula.org
Herita a Tree Nomination 9►
Planning Application No.
PROJECT INFORMATION
(INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS CANNOT BE ACCEPTED)
TREE DESCRIPTION
Tree name (species and common name):
Number of trees:
Street address:
Location of Tree: ❑ Front yard ❑ Rear yard ❑ Side yard ❑ Corner-side yard
❑ Public right-of-way ❑ Public lands ❑ Not sure
❑ Other:
GPS units (OPTIONAL):
Height feet
Average canopy width feet
Circumference at chest level inches
Circumference at ground level3 inches
1 Distance from one edge to opposite edge of tree canopy
2 Distance around trunk at 4.5 ft off the ground. http:l/www.isa-arbor.com/publications/tree-ord/heritage.aspx
3 Distance around trunk on the ground where the trunk meets the soil.
The Planning Commission will use the following criteria to evaluate each Heritage Tree Application. If
you need more space to describe the tree, please attach additional sheets.
Rarity: Rare Uncommon Common Other
Unusual species in Temecula. Also consider rarity in California, North America, world.
Comment:
Size: Large Medium Small
Notable size (height, diameter, canopy width) compared to other trees of the same species.
Comment:
Age: Significantly advanced age for this species (known or estimated).
Comment:
Historical Association: Yes None apparent
Related to a historic or cultural building, site, street, person, event, etc.
Describe nature of appreciation:
Ethnic appreciation: Yes None apparent
Particular value to certain ethnic groups in neighborhood or city.
Describe nature of appreciation:
Neighborhood appreciation: Yes None apparent
Multiple indicators such as letters of support, petition, outdoor gatherings, celebrations adjacent or related
to tree, etc. Attach documentation:
Describe:
Planting defines neighborhood character: Yes No
Contributes to neighborhood aesthetic.
Describe contribution:
Profiled in a publication or other media: Yes Unknown
Tree has received print, internet, and/or video media coverage. Attach documentation if appropriate.
Describe coverage:
High traffic area: Yes No
High visibility, possible traffic calming effect.
Describe:
Low tree density: Low Moderate High
Tree exists in a neighborhood with very few trees.
Describe:
Extends between multiple properties: Yes No
High visibility, multiple neighbors share tree.
Describe:
Accessible from public right-of-way: Yes No
High visibility.
Describe:
Important wildlife habitat: Yes No
Wildlife shelter and/or food (observed or potential). Describe and be as specific as possible.
Interdependent group of trees: Yes No
This tree forms a supercanopy and removing it may have an adverse impact on adjacent trees.
Describe:
Erosion control: Yes No
Tree prevents soil erosion.
Describe:
Wind or sound barrier: Yes No
Tree reduces wind speed or mitigates undesirable noise.
Describe:
Prominent landscape feature: Yes
A striking and outstanding natural feature.
Describe, attach photo if possible:
No
Character-defining form: Yes No
Tree is an example of good form for its particular species.
Describe:
Tree condition: Good Poor Hazard
Consider overall tree health and structure, and whether or not tree poses a hazard
Describe:
Additional comments
If you have any questions about this form, tree terms or tree concepts, please contact the
Planning Department staff (below). It is acceptable if you cannot provide some of the information
requested on this form.
A photograph of the tree must be submitted with this form.
Please attach optional supporting documents such as letters, arborist report, etc.
Send to: Planning Department, P.Q. Box 9033, Temecula, CA 92589-9033, (951) 694-6400.
Any information you submit will be part of the public record.
The Public Records Act defines a "public record" broadly to include "any writing containing information relating to the conduct of the
public's business prepared, owned, used or retained by any state or local agency, regardless of the physical form or characteristics.
Govt. Code § 6252(e). Pursuant to the Public Records Act, this document is a public record and will be available to the public upon
request, at the hearing site, at the Temecula Main Library, and on the City's website.
Application received date Received by
Tree evaluation form UFC recommendation date
Planning Commission Decision
Heritage Tree # Title recorded date
STAFF REPORT- PLANNING
CITY OF TEMECULA
PLANNING COMMISSION
DATE OF MEETING: April 16, 2008
PREPARED BY: Emery J. Papp, AICP, Senior Planner
PROJECT Planning Application Number LR08-0019, review the proposed
SUMMARY: Heritage Tree Ordinance, adding Chapter 8.36 to Title 8 of the
Municipal Code, and recommend that the City Council adopt the
Ordinance
CEQA: Categorically Exempt
Section 15061.(b)(3) Class NIA
BACKGROUND SUMMARY
The proposed Heritage Tree Ordinance, Heritage Tree Preservation and Protection Manual,
Heritage Tree Inventory and Heritage Tree Preservation Zones represent the outcome of a City
Council Subcommittee spearheaded by Council Members Ron Roberts and Chuck Washington.
The proposed Ordinance, which was prepared by staff in conjunction with the Council
Subcommittee and the City Attorney, provides protection for Heritage Trees and identifies
procedures for preserving them during the construction process and for the life of the tree. In
preparing the proposed Ordinance, staff reviewed several other model Ordinances including
those of the County of Riverside, the Cities of La Puente, Palo Alto and Riverside, as well as
guidelines prepared by the USDA Forest Service, California Department of Forestry, and the
National Arbor Day Foundation.
Protection of trees is a quality of life issue for Temecula residents, however, there are currently
no protections in place to guarantee the preservation of significant trees throughout the City of
Temecula. The City Council Subcommittee on Heritage Trees found that it is in the public
interest to enact regulations to protect and preserve heritage trees and encourage the
application of management techniques to control the pruning, trimming, shaping and removal or
relocation of these trees within the City.
ANALYSIS
Temecula has several species of native/non-native trees of significant size and quality that
contribute in a positive way to the City's environment and heritage. Healthy and properly
maintained trees increase property values, provide shade and heat dissipation, help to prevent
erosion of topsoil, reduce air pollution, and improve our psychological well-being and beautify
the community. To ensure long term health and viability of Heritage Trees thoughout the City,
staff has worked with the City Council subcommittee and has prepared a draft Heritage Tree
Ordinance. The contents of each Article within the proposed Ordinance are summarized below.
Article 1 of the proposed Ordinance contains criteria for determining what qualifies as a
"Heritage Tree." In general, native oak tree species having a trunk circumference of 25 inches
or greater measured at four feet above the ground, or any tree having a circumference of 48
inches or more measured at four feet above the ground, with the exception of Eucalyptus trees,
are considered Heritage Trees. Also included are trees of any size planted as a replacement for
a Heritage Tree.
Article 2 of the proposed rdinance discusses the need for lawful removal or relocation of
Heritage Trees. Under these provisions, the Director of Planning may approve the removal or
relocation of a Heritage Tree and shall consider appropriate mitigation based on the following
criteria: purpose of the project, the overall condition and size of the tree, the species and size of
replacement trees, and other factors contained in the Heritage Tree Preservation and Protection
Manual deemed appropriate. Article 2 also contains exceptions that define when it is
appropriate to remove or relocate a Heritage Tree without prior authorization.
Article 3 discusses the preservation and protection of Heritage Trees during construction. The
sections in this Article refer to the Heritage Tree Preservation and Protection Manual to reduce
the impacts of construction through regular maintenance of the trees, minimizing or avoiding
physical damage to the trees and minimizing or avoiding soil disturbance.
Article 4 defines what constitutes a violation of the Ordinance and discusses enforcement and
remedies for violations, including the appeals process.
Article 5 contains definitions of key terms used throughout the Ordinance and the accompanying
Heritage Tree Preservation and Protection Manual.
The proposed Heritage Tree Ordinance addresses policies identified in the General Plan Open
Space/Conservation Element, including:
Policy 5.4 - Retain and improve the quality of landscaping in parkways, public slopes, rights-of-
way, parks, civic facilities, and other public open areas.
Policy 6.9 - Encourage the preservation and re-use of historic structures, landscape features,
roads, landmark trees, and trails.
LEGAL NOTICING REQUIREMENTS
Notice of the public hearing was published in the Californian on April 5, 2008
ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION
Staff has determined that Ordinance No. 08- (Heritage Tree Ordinance) is exempt from the
requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant to Title 14 of the
California Code of Regulations, Section 15061(b)(3) because it can be seen with certainty that
there is no possibility that the Ordinance will have a significant effect on the environment. The
Ordinance will have no adverse environmental affects because it will protect and preserve
significant trees within the City of Temecula.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the Planning Commission adopt a resolution recommending that the City
Council approve an Amendment to Title 8 of the Temecula Municipal Code.
ATTACHMENTS
PC Resolution
Exhibit A - Draft CC Ordinance
Notice of Public Hearing
Notice of Public Hearing
A PUBLIC HEARING has been scheduled before the City of Temecula PLANNING
COMMISSION to consider the matter described below:
Case No:
Planning Application No. LR08-0019
Applicant:
City of Temecula
Location:
City wide
Proposal:
Review the proposed Heritage Tree Ordinance and recommend an action to the City Council
Environmental:
In accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the proposed project is
exempt from further environmental review and a Notice of Exemption will be issued in
compliance with CEQA (Section 15061(3))
Case Planner:
Emery J. Papp, AICP, Senior Planner
Place of Hearing:
City of Temecula, Council Chambers
43200 Business Park Drive, Temecula, CA 92590
Date of Hearing:
January 21, 2009
Time of Hearing:
6:00 p.m.
Any person may submit written comments to the Planning Commission before the hearing or may appear and be
heard in support of or opposition to the approval of the project at the time of hearing. If you challenge the project
in court, you maybe limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing
described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the Planning Commission at, or prior to,
the public hearing. The proposed project application may be viewed at the Temecula Planning Department,
43200 Business Park Drive, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Questions concerning the
project may be addressed to Emery Papp at the City of Temecula Redevelopment Agency, (951) 693-3955.
CAProgram Files\Neevia.Com`Document Converter\temp\902901.doc
STAFF REPORT- PLANNING
CITY OF TEMECULA
PLANNING COMMISSION
DATE OF MEETING: January 21, 2009
PREPARED BY: Emery J. Papp, AICP, Senior Planner
PROJECT Planning Application Number LR08-0019, review the proposed
SUMMARY: Heritage Tree Ordinance, adding new Chapter 8.48 to Title 8 of the
Municipal Code, and recommend that the City Council adopt the
Ordinance
CEQA: Categorically Exempt
Section 15061.(b)(3)
BACKGROUND SUMMARY
Protection of trees is a quality of life issue for Temecula residents; however, there are currently
no protections in place to guarantee the preservation of significant trees throughout the City of
Temecula. The proposed Heritage Tree Ordinance, Heritage Tree Preservation and Protection
Manual and its appendices represent the outcome of a City Council Subcommittee spearheaded
by Council Members Ron Roberts and Chuck Washington. The City Council Subcommittee on
Heritage Trees found that it is in the public interest to enact regulations to protect and preserve
heritage trees and encourage the application of management techniques to control the pruning,
trimming, shaping and removal or relocation of these trees within the City.
A draft of the proposed Ordinance was presented to the Planning Commission on April 16,
2008. At the conclusion of this public hearing, the Planning Commission cited several concerns
with the Ordinance and requested a 90-day continuance for staff to revise the Ordinance. To
address these concerns, staff prepared a significantly revised Ordinance largely based on
existing Ordinances created by the City of Thousand Oaks to protect Oak Trees and other
Landmark Trees. The Thousand Oaks' Ordinances have been on the books for decades and
are widely regarded as setting the bar for protection of significant trees.
The revised Ordinance, which was prepared by staff in conjunction with the Council
Subcommittee and the City Attorney, took longer than the requested 90-day continuance and
was continued off-calendar. The delay in returning the item to the Planning Commission was
caused by the extent of changes to the draft Ordinance, additional review by legal counsel, and
several attempts to enter into a contract with a consulting arborist. At the time this report was
prepared, the draft Ordinance had not been reviewed by an arborist, however, staff continues to
negotiate a contract with a certified arborist.
ANALYSIS
The original draft Heritage Tree Ordinance was a broad-brush approach that would have
provided automatic protection to all trees, except Eucalyptus species, once they reached a
certain diameter. This approach could have led to long-term maintenance problems and
potential legal issues, such as impacting solar easements and damage claims.
The most significant change to the revised Ordinance is the change in focus to protection of
native tree species in their native environment. All species of oaks found within naturally
occurring open space areas or designated Open Space areas are protected regardless of their
size. Other native species such as Black Walnut, California Holly and California Sycamore
receive automatic protection in their native environment once they have grown to a specified
diameter.
To ensure long term health and viability of Heritage Trees thoughout the City, staff has worked
with the City Council subcommittee and has prepared a draft Heritage Tree Ordinance and
Preservation and Protection Manual. The contents of each Article within the proposed
Ordinance are summarized below.
Article 1 of the proposed Ordinance contains the purpose for the Ordinance, defines key terms
used throughout the Ordinance and the accompanying Heritage Tree Preservation and
Protection Manual, and the criteria for determining what qualifies as a "Heritage Tree." In
general, native specimen oak tree species, regardless of size, are considered Heritage Trees.
Native specimen California Sycamore, California Bay Laurel, California Black Walnut, and
California Holly are also protected at maturity. According to the International Society of
Arboriculture, California Sycamore is considered mature when the trunk diameter reaches 12
inches. All of the other species mentioned above are considered mature specimens when the
trunk diameter reaches 8 inches. Also included are trees of any size planted as a replacement
for a Heritage Tree, and trees determined by Conditions of Approval to be protected in place.
New to the Article 1 is a procedure that permits members of the public to nominate any tree in
the City as a Heritage Tree. To be considered, the property owner must consent to the
nomination, and an application must be submitted for review and approval by the Planning
Commission. The accompanying Heritage Tree Preservation and Protection Manual outlines
this procedure. An additional purpose of the Heritage Tree Preservation and Protection Manual
is to reduce the impacts of construction through regular maintenance of the trees, minimizing or
avoiding physical damage to the trees and minimizing or avoiding soil disturbance. The
Planning Director shall have the authority to change, update or supplement these provisions.
Article 2 of the proposed Ordinance discusses the need for lawful maintenance, removal or
relocation of Heritage Trees. Under these provisions, the Director of Planning may approve a
permit for the pruning, removal or relocation of a Heritage Tree and shall consider appropriate
mitigation based on the following criteria: purpose of the project, the overall condition and size
of the tree, the species and size of replacement trees, and other criteria contained in the
Heritage Tree Preservation and Protection Manual deemed appropriate. Article 2 also contains
exceptions that define when it is appropriate to remove or relocate a Heritage Tree without prior
authorization.
Article 3 defines what constitutes a violation of the Ordinance and discusses enforcement and
remedies for violations, including the appeals process. Penalties for willful destruction of a
Heritage Tree include fines assessed under Sections 1.21 and 1.24 of the Temecula Municipal
Code and restitution in the form of physical replacement or payment equal to the value of the
Heritage Tree as determined by the International Society of Arboriculture.
The proposed Heritage Tree Ordinance addresses policies identified in the General Plan Open
Space/Conservation Element, including:
Policy 5.4 - Retain and improve the quality of landscaping in parkways, public slopes, rights-of-
way, parks, civic facilities, and other public open areas.
Policy 6.9 - Encourage the preservation and re-use of historic structures, landscape features,
roads, landmark trees, and trails.
LEGAL NOTICING REQUIREMENTS
Notice of the public hearing was published in the Californian on January 10, 2009
ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION
Staff has determined that Ordinance No. 09- (Heritage Tree Ordinance) is exempt from the
requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQN') pursuant to Title 14 of the
California Code of Regulations, Section 15061(b)(3) because it can be seen with certainty that
there is no possibility that the Ordinance will have a significant effect on the environment. The
Ordinance will have no adverse environmental affects because it will protect and preserve
significant trees within the City of Temecula.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the Planning Commission adopt a resolution recommending that the City
Council approve an Amendment to Title 8 of the Temecula Municipal Code.
ATTACHMENTS
PC Resolution
Exhibit A - Draft CC Ordinance
Heritage Tree Preservation and Protection Manual
Appendix A Zone Map Overview
Maps 1-10
Maps 11-20
Appendix B Watercourses
Appendix C Corridors
Appendix D Tree Pruning-Removal Permit
Appendix E Heritage Tree Nomination Form
PC 4-16-08 Staff R eport
Notice of Public Hearing
ORDINANCE NO. - 09
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF TEMECULA,
CALIFORNIA, ADDING NEW CHAPTER 8.48 (TEMECULA
HERITAGE TREE ORDINANCE) TO TITLE 8 (HEALTH
AND SAFETY) OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE OF THE CITY
OF TEMECULA
The City Council of the City of Temecula, does ordain as follows:
Section 1: Title 8, "Health and Safety," of the Temecula Municipal Code is
hereby amended by the addition of a new Chapter 8.48, to read as follows:
"CHAPTER 8.48
HERITAGE TREE ORDINANCE
Article 1
General Provisions
8.48.100
Title
8.48.110
Purpose
8.48.120
Definitions
8.48.130
Heritage Tree Preservation and Protection Manual
8.48.140
Designation of Heritage Trees
8.48.150
Non-Liability of City
8.48.100 Title
This chapter shall be known as "The City of Temecula Heritage Tree Ordinance"
and is referred to herein as the "Ordinance."
8.48.110 Purpose
The purpose of this Ordinance is to protect and preserve native and non-native
trees on public and private property that are of sufficient visual and historic importance
to the community to justify special efforts to protect and preserve them. This Ordinance
will also encourage the application of management techniques to control the pruning,
cutting, shaping, removal, and relocation of Heritage Trees within the City. The
preservation program outlined in this Ordinance will contribute to the welfare and
aesthetics of the community and retain the great historical and environmental value of
these trees.
8.48.120 Definitions
For purposes of this Ordinance, the following words and phrases shall have the
meaning set forth in this Section.
"Certified Arborist" means an arborist who is registered with the International
Society of Arboriculture and approved by the Planning Director.
"City" means the City of Temecula.
"Cutting" means the detaching or separating, from a protected tree, any limb,
branch, or root. Cutting shall include pruning.
"Damage" means any unpermitted action, including, but not limited to, cutting,
poisoning, over watering, removal, relocation, transplanting, trenching, excavating, or
paving within the protected zone of a tree, that causes the injury, death, or
disfigurement of a Heritage Tree.
"Disfigurement" means the unsightly and injurious cutting of a Heritage Tree,
including, but not limited to tree-trimming practices not in conformance with standards
established by the International Society of Arboriculture and pruning practices such as
stubbing, heading, heading back, stubbing off, pollarding, tipping, topping off, de-
horning, lopping, and rounding.
"Deadwood" means limbs, branches, or a portion of a tree that contains no green
leaves during a time of year when they would be present on a healthy tree of that type.
"Development" means the improvement or use of real property that requires the
City's discretionary review and approval.
"Drip line" means the outermost edge of the tree canopy, which when depicted
on a map, will appear as an irregular shaped circle that follows the contour of the tree's
branches as seen from overhead.
"Encroachment" means any intrusion into or human activity within the protected
zone of a Heritage Tree including, but not limited to, pruning, grading, excavating,
trenching, parking of vehicles, storage of materials or equipment, or the construction of
structures or other improvements.
"Heritage Tree" means a tree designated as a Heritage Tree pursuant to Section
8.48.140 of this Ordinance.
"Heritage Tree Preservation and Policy Manual" means the collection of
administrative rules, procedures, and requirements prepared and published by the
Planning Director pursuant to Section 8.48.130 of this Ordinance.
"Native" refers to a tree that is indigenous to the area and is growing in its natural
environment without the benefit of artificial irrigation or maintenance.
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"Oak Tree" means any oak tree of the genus Quercus including, but not limited
to, California or Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia), Coastal Sage Scrub Oak (Quercus
dumosa), Engelman Oak (Quercus engelmannii), Scrub Oak (Quercus berberidifolia),
and Valley Oak (Quercus lobata).
"Owner" means a legal owner of real property within the City of Temecula or any
lessee of the owner.
"Person" means any individual, firm, association, corporation, organization, or
partnership or any city, county, district, the State or any department or agency thereof.
"Planning Director" means the City's Planning Director, or his or her designee.
"Protected zone" means the area extending horizontally outward from the trunk of
a Heritage Tree to a point five (5) feet beyond the drip line but in no case extending less
than fifteen (15) feet from the trunk.
"Pruning" means the removal of water sprouts, crossed limbs, or other unhealthy
branching structure in accordance with standards established by the International
Society of Arboriculture.
"Relocation" means the transplanting of a tree from its original location to another
suitable location.
"Removal" means the physical removal of a tree or causing the death of a tree
through damaging, poisoning, or other direct or indirect action.
"Right-of-Way" means any dedicated street right-of-way, or recorded easement
for maintenance or utility purposes.
"Routine maintenance" means actions needed for the continued good health of a
Heritage Tree including, but not limited to, removal of deadwood, insect control
spraying, and watering.
"Tree Canopy" means the top layer or crown of mature trees.
"Tree Report" means a report prepared by a certified arborist regarding the
potential impact of development on existing trees; the current health and/or structural
stability of existing trees; the restorative or remedial measures for mitigation of potential
or actual development impacts to existing trees; or the probability of long-term success
of replacement or relocated trees.
8.48.130 Heritage Tree Preservation and Protection Manual
The Planning Director shall formulate and publish administrative rules,
procedures and requirements necessary to implement the provisions of this Ordinance.
Such rules, procedures, and requirements shall be called "The City of Temecula
Heritage Tree Preservation and Protection Manual." The Planning Director shall have
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the authority to change, update, or revise the Manual as necessary in order to
implement the provisions of this Ordinance.
8.48.140 Designation of Heritage Trees
A. Any Native specimen of the following species that have reached the
required diameter is a Heritage Tree:
1. Oak Trees, regardless of size.
2. Platanus racemosa, (California Sycamore) more than twelve (12)
inches in diameter when measured at a point four (4) feet above the natural grade at the
base of the tree.
3. Umbellularia californica, (California Bay Laurel) more than eight (8)
inches in diameter when measured at a point four (4) feet above the natural grade at the
base of the tree.
4. Juglans californica, (California Black Walnut) more than eight (8)
inches in diameter when measured at a point four (4) feet above the natural grade at the
base of the tree.
5. Heteromeles (Photinia) arbutafolia, (California Holly) or (Toyon)
more than eight (8) inches in diameter when measured at a point four (4) feet above the
natural grade at the base of the tree.
B. For purposes of paragraph A of this Section, trees with multiple trunks are
deemed to have reached the required diameter if the sum of the diameters of the
multiple trunks exceeds the diameter required for a single trunk tree by two (2) inches.
C. The Planning Commission or City Council, may, when reviewing a
development application, designate any tree on the site of the proposed development,
regardless of species, as a Heritage tree if it determines the tree should be preserved
and protected as a condition of development due to its age, size, rarity, or appearance.
Any Heritage Tree so designated shall continue to be a Heritage Tree for purposes of
this Ordinance regardless of whether the approved development is ever initiated.
D. Upon application of any member of the public, the Planning Commission
may, after holding a noticed public hearing, designate any tree, regardless of species,
as a Heritage tree if the Owner of the subject tree supports the application and the
Planning Commission determines the tree should be preserved and protected due to its
age, size, rarity, or appearance.
E. Any tree of any size planted as a replacement for a Heritage Tree
pursuant to this Ordinance shall be designated as a Heritage Tree.
8.48.150 Non-Liability of City
Nothing in this Ordinance shall be construed to impose any liability for damages
or a duty of care and maintenance upon the City or its officers, employees, agents, or
volunteers.
Article 2
Cutting, Removal, Relocation, or Encroachment Upon Heritage Trees
8.48.200 Heritage Tree Maintenance and Preservation
8.48.210 Permit Requirement and Exceptions
8.48.220 Permit Application and Review
8.48.230 Standards of Approval
8.48.200 Heritage Tree Maintenance and Preservation
A. All owners of real property on which a Heritage Tree is located and that is
improved, approved for development, or part of or associated with the approved
development of another piece of property, including but not limited to property required
to be maintained as permanent open space or for recreational purposes, shall maintain
such Heritage Trees in a state of good health. Failure to do so will constitute a violation
of this Ordinance.
B. Damaging a Heritage Tree is prohibited. Each action that damages a
Heritage Tree shall be a separate violation.
8.48.210 Permit Requirement and Exceptions
A. Except as allowed under paragraph B of this Section, no person shall cut,
remove, or relocate a Heritage Tree, or encroach into the protected zone of any
Heritage Tree without first obtaining a Heritage Tree Permit from the City in accordance
with the provisions of this Ordinance, the Heritage Tree Preservation and Protection
Manual, and all applicable provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act.
B. A Heritage Tree may be cut, removed, relocated, or encroached upon
without a Heritage Tree Permit only under the following circumstances:
1. A peace officer, fireman, civil defense official, or code enforcement
officer has determined in his or her official capacity that the tree poses an imminent
danger to the public or to property, in which case the tree may be cut, removed,
relocated, or encroached upon only to the extent necessary to avoid the danger
presented. The Planning Department shall be promptly noticed of the nature of the
emergency and action taken.
2. Fire Department personnel actively engaged in fighting a fire have
determined that removal of the tree is necessary to their firefighting efforts.
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3. The tree is less than ten (10) inches in diameter and is held for sale
by a licensed nursery.
4. The tree is within the boundaries of an occupied residential parcel
less than one half (1/2) acre in size and the owner has consented to the cutting,
removal, relocation, or encroachment.
5. Pruning and routine maintenance necessary to avoid casting a
shadow upon a solar power collector located on the property of another.
6. City staff has determined it is necessary to cut, remove, relocate, or
encroach upon the tree to prepare a site or undertake an approved capital improvement
project that has received environmental clearances under the California Environmental
Quality Act.
7. The Director of Public Works or the City Traffic Engineer has
directed the cutting, removal, relocation, or encroachment in order to (i) maintain public
rights-of-way or adequate line-of-sight distances; and (ii) construct improvements within
existing or proposed General Plan Circulation Element rights-of-way, adjacent slopes,
and appurtenances.
8. Cutting, removal, relocation, or encroachment is required to widen
a Principal Intersection to accommodate additional dedicated turning lanes in
accordance with adopted goals, objectives and policies contained in the General Plan
Circulation Element.
9. Cutting, removal, relocation, or encroachment occurs as part of
Construction or maintenance activities for facilities owned or operated by or for a
governmental agency, quasi-public agency, or a utility company under the jurisdiction of
the public utilities commission.
8.48.220 Permit Application and Review
A. An applicant for a Heritage Tree Permit shall submit an application on a
form designated by the Planning Director and pay the appropriate filing fee as set by
Council resolution.
B. If an application for a Heritage Tree Permit pertains to five (5) of fewer
trees located on a single parcel, the Planning Director shall review the application and
approve, deny, or conditionally approve the request. The Planning Director's decision
may be appealed to the Planning Commission, which may uphold, modify, or reverse
the decision of the Planning Director.
C. The Planning Commission shall review all applications for a Heritage Tree
Permit not reviewed in the first instance by the Planning Director. The Planning
Commission shall approve, deny, or conditionally approve the request. The Planning
Commission's review shall be consolidated with its consideration of all other entitlement
applications for the property, if any.
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D. All decisions of the Planning Commission pursuant to this Ordinance may
be appealed to the City Council in accordance with Chapter 2.36 of the Temecula
Municipal Code.
8.48.230 Standards of Approval
A. An application for a Heritage Tree Permit may only be approved if the
decision-maker finds and determines that the requested cutting, removal, relocation, or
encroachment is necessary to:
1. Maintain or aid the health, balance, or structure of the Heritage
Tree;
2. Protect life or property from a danger posed by the Heritage Tree
that cannot be reduced or eliminated by use of reasonable preservation and/or
preventative procedures and practices; or
3. Enable the reasonable and conforming use of the property, which is
otherwise prevented by the presence of the tree.
B. When deciding whether to approve, deny, or conditionally approve a
Heritage Tree Permit, the decision maker may consider the following factors:
1. Whether a public purpose is being provided by the project or if the
removal is primarily to facilitate private development;
2. The overall condition, species, approximate age, size and general
health of the Heritage Tree(s) to be removed;
3. An arborist's report on the likelihood for survival of any Heritage
Tree(s) to be relocated;
4. The species, size and number of replacement tree(s) being
provided as mitigation; and
5. Other factors as appropriate, in accordance with the Heritage Tree
Preservation and Protection Manual.
C. The decision maker may impose conditions to offset or mitigate the
requested cutting, removal, relocation, or encroachment, including, but not limited to,
any of the following:
1. The relocation of the subject tree to another location on-site or off-
site.
2. The planting on-site or off-site of replacement trees of the same or
similar species, having the approximate size, age and health as the Heritage Trees to
be removed at a 2:1 ratio;
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3. The initiation of an objectively observable maintenance and care
program in accordance with the Heritage Tree Preservation and Protection Manual to
insure the continued health and care of Heritage Trees on the property;
4. Payment of a fee equal to the cost of procuring, planting,
establishing, and maintaining replacement trees on a 2:1 basis, which cost shall be
based on the latest edition of either the "Guide for Plant Appraisal" by the International
Society of Arboriculture or the "Standards for Valuation of Amenity Trees" of the
International Society of Arboriculture. Such payments shall be used solely to fund the
cost of replacing trees that have been removed.
Article 3
Violations and Enforcement
8.48.300
Violations
8.48.310
Remedies
8.48.320
Restitution
8.48.330
Collection of Penalties
8.48.300 Violations
A. Violations of this ordinance are subject to criminal misdemeanor penalties
and civil penalties pursuant to Chapters 1.21 and 1.24, respectively, of the Temecula
Municipal Code.
B. Intimidating, harassing, or otherwise retaliating against any person who
seeks to attain compliance with this Ordinance is prohibited.
C. Causing, permitting, aiding, abetting or concealing a violation of any
provision of this Ordinance is prohibited.
D. A violation of this chapter is declared to be a public nuisance.
8.48.310 Remedies
A. The remedies provided by this Ordinance are cumulative and in addition to
any other remedies available at law or in equity. The City may seek to remedy any
violation of this Ordinance by a civil action, including, without limitation, administrative or
judicial nuisance abatement proceedings, civil or criminal code enforcement
proceedings, and suits for injunctive relief.
B. If a violation occurs during development, the City may issue a stop work
order suspending and prohibiting further activity on the property pursuant to the grading,
demolition, and/or building permit(s) (including construction, inspection, and the
issuance of Certificates of Occupancy) until a Mitigation Plan has been filed by the
developer and approved by the Planning Director.
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C. If a violation occurs in the absence of development, or while an application
for a building permit or discretionary development approval is pending for the property
upon which the tree is located, the Planning Director may: (1) request the City Council
issue a temporary moratorium on development of the subject property pursuant to law;
or (2) issue a stop work order halting all activity on the parcel. The purpose of this stop
of activity shall be to provide the City an opportunity to determine appropriate mitigation
measures, if any, for the tree removal and to ensure such measures are incorporated
into any future or pending development approvals for the property. Mitigation measures
may be imposed as a condition of any subsequent permits for development on the
subject property.
8.48.320 Restitution
A. In addition to any other remedy or penalty provided for by the Ordinance,
the City may seek restitution from any person who damages, removes, or relocates a
Heritage Tree in violation of this Ordinance in the form the replacement of the Heritage
Tree so removed or damaged or a fine in lieu of restitution. The Planning Director shall
determine the form of restitution required.
1. If the Planning Director determines that restitution should be made
in the form of a replacement of the Heritage Trees removed or damaged, the
replacement trees shall be the same or similar species of tree, having the approximate
size, age and health as the tree(s) damaged or destroyed, at a 2:1 ratio. The location of
such plantings shall be determined by the Planning Director;
2. If the Planning Director determines that payment should be made in
lieu of restitution, the payment required shall include but is not limited to, the costs of
procuring, planting, establishing, and maintaining replacement trees. The cost of the
replacement tree shall be based on the latest edition of either the "Guide for Plant
Appraisal" by the International Society of Arboriculture or the "Standards for Valuation of
Amenity Trees" of the International Society of Arboriculture. Payments made in lieu of
restitution shall be used solely to fund the cost of replacing trees that have been
damaged or removed in violation of this Ordinance.
B. If the size of a Heritage Tree cannot be determined due to its unauthorized
removal, the size shall be determined by measuring the stump that remains, anecdotal
evidence, or interpolated from photographs or adjacent trees. The Planning Director
shall presume that a missing Heritage Tree was in perfect health, unless the
photographs or other verifiable evidence demonstrates otherwise.
8.48.330 Collection of Penalties
A. Fines and payments in lieu of restitution for violation of this Ordinance are
payable at the City's Finance/Cashier office. Fines must be paid within thirty (30)
business days. The City's Finance Department is authorized to collect all unpaid civil
fines.
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B. Any unpaid costs or penalties, or payments in lieu of restitution imposed
pursuant to this Ordinance shall constitute a special assessment against the real
property upon which a violation of this Ordinance has occurred. All costs and/or fines
shall be itemized in a written report of assessment. The Planning Director shall cause a
copy of the report and assessment to be served on the owner of the property not less
than five days prior to the time fixed for confirmation of the assessment. Service may
be made by enclosing a copy of the report of assessment in a sealed envelope, postage
prepaid, addressed to the owner at his or her last known address as the same appears
on the last equalized assessment rolls of the County of Riverside and depositing the
same in the United States mail. Service shall be deemed complete at the time of
mailing.
C. A copy of the report of assessment shall be posted in the City Clerk's
office on the bulletin board designated for the posting of agendas, not less than three
days prior to the time when the report shall be submitted to the City Council. The City
Council shall hear the report, together with any objections by the property owner. After
the assessment is made and confirmed by the City Council, it shall be a lien on said
property. The lien shall be turned over to the Riverside County Tax Collector, where it
shall be levied on the next regular property tax bills for said property, and collected at
the same time and in the same manner as other municipal taxes are collected, and shall
be subject to the same penalties and procedures under foreclosure and sale in case of
delinquency as provided for other municipal taxes.
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PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Temecula
this day of ,
Maryann Edwards, Mayor
ATTEST:
Susan W. Jones, MMC
City Clerk
[SEAL]
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE ) ss
CITY OF TEMECULA )
I, Susan W. Jones, MMC, City Clerk of the City of Temecula, do hereby certify that
the foregoing Ordinance No. - was duly introduced and placed upon its first reading
at a meeting of the City Council of the City of Temecula on the day of , ,
and that thereafter, said Ordinance was duly adopted by the City Council of the City of
Temecula at a meeting thereof held on the day of , , by the following vote:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
ABSTAIN: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
Susan W. Jones, MMC
City Clerk
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