Tree Removal & Replacement

Over time, as intended, the trees planted on LMAD-managed property have matured and achieved significant size; however, there are varying opinions on the value of large, more mature trees as some property owners believe that mature trees may have a negative impact on their enjoyment of their property (e.g., obstruction of views, falling debris, shade on solar panels, etc.). Please be mindful that trees within most LMAD areas are on a three-year tree trimming cycle; however, a property owner may elect to request an off-cycle tree trimming or tree removal/replacement. In these cases, the fees incurred will be at the expense of the requesting property owner.

Tree Removal & Replacement Process

City Council Policy E-3: City Tree Removal and Replacement (PDF) establishes criteria that mitigate tree loss, pruning for view enhancement, and normal thinning due to tree crowding due to the large number of mature trees and the maintenance necessary to manage them consistent with current arboricultural practices.

In such cases, there is a process in which a property owner can apply to have a limited number of trees removed or trimmed by submitting a Tree Removal Request Application (PDF). Under this policy, the LMAD must replace lost trees with up to three new trees grown in 24” boxed containers. As this work is done solely to benefit your parcel; the full cost of the trimming or removal/replacement will be the sole responsibility of the requesting party. No one may trim, cut, remove, or otherwise interfere with any LMAD landscaping without the permission of the City. The City will pursue all appropriate legal remedies against anyone who violates these rules.