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Agenda Item: 6F |
Prepared By: Jose Muchati |
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Business: Old Business |
Department: Fleet & Facilities |
Subject:
Title
Max Tree Height (V. Myers)
Body
BACKGROUND: At the Committee’s Nov. 5, 2025, meeting, the legal context of a statute that prohibits planting trees in public right-of-way near electric lines that will grow taller than 14 feet in maturity. Committee Member Myers researched the restriction and did not find a codified agreement exempting the Committee. This restricts planting shade trees and affects planting near utility lines. As a result, it was proposed to update tree planting guidelines, develop utility-compliant tree lists, educate the public, update permitting process, and focus on larger areas without overhead lines.
The Committee recommended talking to the City Council and asking for a rational decision about tree planting, while exploring side roads, and considering root systems and infrastructure protection. Additionally, it was suggested that not all areas should a “hard no” and to consider tree-friendly planting sites.
FUNDING SOURCE / FISCAL IMPACT: None
RECOMMENDATION: None
POTENTIAL MOTION: None expected