§ 15.26.070. Tree protection during construction.

A.

Generally. It is the applicant's responsibility to insure that all parts of the tree preservation plan are transferred to each appropriate person concerned with the development project.

B.

Root Protection Zone. A root protection zone must be established around the trunk of each tree preserved or mitigation tree. The root protection zone shall be an area defined by an average radius extending outward from the trunk of the tree a distance of one linear foot for each inch (diameter two feet above the ground). The root protection zone area shall be preserved at natural grade, with natural groundcover. No cutting, filling, trenching, root disturbance, soil disturbance or construction impacts shall occur closer to the trunk than one-half the root protection zone radius except in parking areas where approved alternative materials and methods are used, construction may be as close as five feet from the root flares on one side of the tree. Native understory vegetation within the root protection zone shall be preserved, however this requirement does not apply to root protection zone areas that have been landscaped using native, drought tolerant plants. The root protection zone may be shifted and clustered as long as there is no construction closer to the trunk than one-half the root protection zone radius. The construction of sidewalks shall be allowed in the root protection zone, as long as excavation does not exceed three inches. The area contained within a root protection zone required under this subsection must be left in a previous condition after construction and development are completed.

During construction activity on the site, at least a six-inch layer of course mulch shall be placed and maintained over the root protection zone.

C.

Protection Barrier. A protection barrier shall be erected at the edge of the root protection zone for all trees, understory and/or natural areas to be preserved to meet the requirements of the tree preservation, landscape and/or streetscape standards. The barrier shall be in place before any site work in initiated and maintained throughout the construction process. This protective barrier may be comprised of snow fencing, vinyl construction fencing, chain link geotextile material or other similar sturdy material. During construction, no excess soil, additional fill, equipment, liquids or construction debris shall be placed inside the protective barrier nor shall any soil be removed within the barrier.

D.

Grading. The proposed finished grade within the root protection zone of any tree to be preserved shall not be raised or lowered more than three inches. Texas A&M Forest Service welling and retaining methods for tree preservation may be used within the root protection zone and to protect and/or provide lateral support to the area outside the root protection zone.

E.

Equipment/Vehicle Storage Parking Areas. Prior to construction or land development, the developer or builder shall establish designated parking areas for the parking and maintenance of all vehicles, trailers, construction equipment, and related items, as well as stockpile areas for the storage of construction supplies and materials. The location and dimensions of said designated areas shall be clearly identified on construction and site plans and at the construction site.

F.

Tree Protection Details. Tree protection notes and details shall be included on subdivision plans, tree preservation plans and/or landscape plans. The applicant shall also include tree protection notes and details with the bid documents given to the contractor.

(Ord. No. 2018-03 , § 2, 4-10-2018)