Proposed Dallas tree ordinance changes to be unveiled at public hearing

by PegNews wire

Many tree advocates criticize the current 1994 ordinance for failing to have a strong tree preservation component.

As the City of Dallas continues its march towards becoming a more sustainable city, one document could have important ramifications in helping Dallas become cleaner, greener and more beautiful.

The document is the Dallas Urban Forest Advisory Committee’s (UFAC) draft recommended changes to Article 10 of City Code, otherwise known as the Landscape and Tree Preservation Regulations. The changes will affect how Dallas neighborhoods beautify in the next decade.

After working with development industry representatives and urban forest advocates for two years, the Committee is presenting its proposed changes for public input. On Monday, June 15, 2009, UFAC will hold a public hearing to receive citizen comments regarding its draft recommendations to revise the current regulations.

“It is critical we receive public input on this process, as it will affect a neighborhood’s look and feel in the next decade,” says Bill Seaman, Development and City Codes Team Leader for UFAC.

The Committee, which was established in 2005 by City Council to provide tree and urban forest guidance, contends the proposed changes will help lessen the tension over the existing ordinance, and allow the building of more tree covered neighborhoods.

Many tree advocates criticize the current 1994 ordinance for failing to have a strong tree preservation component, thus allowing for large trees to be removed with little consideration for conservation. Likewise, building industry leaders contend the ordinance limits affordable construction by burdening specific development properties.

The Committee feels its proposed changes address the concerns of both groups by creating an alternative, incentive-based process that would improve the permitting process and provide incentives for developers to protect trees. This process would allow the City’s arborists and Forester to work with property owners to develop a best management plan for tree conservation on the property.

“These changes would improve Article 10 from what can be a deterrent to development to a pro-development ordinance that maintains a tree preservation goal,” said Seaman.

Source: City of Dallas