§ 15-8. Town guidelines concerning restorative action.

The Town of Tiburon provides the following general guidelines concerning restorative actions:

(a)

Undesirable trees. By reason of their tall height at maturity, rapid growth, dense foliage, shallow root structure, flammability, breakability or invasiveness, certain types of trees have been deemed "undesirable" by the town, including Blue Gum Eucalyptus, Coast Redwood, Monterey Pine, Canary Pine, Monterey Cypress trees, or any other tree which generally grows more than three feet per year in height and is capable of reaching a height of over thirty-five feet at maturity. When considering restorative action for "undesirable" trees, aggressive action is preferred.

(b)

Protected trees. The Town of Tiburon has designated certain trees to be "protected trees," defined in section 15-2. Any alteration or removal of protected trees will require a permit from the town's planning director pursuant to chapter 15A of the Tiburon Municipal Code.

(c)

Stump growth. Stump growth generally results in the hazard of weak limbs, and its protection is not desirable. When considering restorative action for stump growth, aggressive action is preferred. Restorative action which will result in future stump growth should be avoided.

(d)

Trimming. Trimming is the most minor form of physical restorative action. This option is recommended when minor unreasonable obstruction has occurred, provided that ongoing maintenance is guaranteed.

(e)

Thinning or windowing. When simple trimming will not resolve the unreasonable obstruction, thinning or windowing may be necessary. These should be supervised by a certified arborist.

(f)

Topping. Topping as a restorative action should be used with caution. Topping can have deleterious effects on a tree's health, appearance and cost of maintenance. Topping frequently results in stump growth. Tree removal, with replacement plantings, may be a preferable alternative.

(g)

Removal. Tree removal may be required where such removal is essential to preserve pre-existing views or sunlight. While normally considered a drastic measure, tree removal can be the preferred solution in many circumstances.

(h)

Maintenance. Ongoing tree maintenance requirements are strongly recommended as part of restorative action in order to achieve lasting preservation of pre-existing views or sunlight.

(i)

Permanence. Conditions of restorative action should be recorded and run with the land to help guarantee permanent preservation of pre-existing views and sunlight.

(Ord. No. 379 N.S., § 3 (part))

(Ord. No. 572 N.S. , § 2(E), 5-17-2017)