Title
Consider and take action an Ordinance 2025-49 amending Chapter 125, Article VII of the Unified Development Code entitled “Tree Preservation, Mitigation, and Maintenance” - Second Reading (Executive Director of Development Services)
Council approved first reading 5-3-0 on November 18, 2025.
Background:
This ordinance amends Chapter 125, Article VII of the Unified Development Code to update the City’s tree preservation standards. The changes ensure predictable costs for mitigation, clear variance and appeal pathways, and a fair balance between development flexibility and canopy protection.
The amendment has been reviewed by the Strategic Plan Advisory Committee (SPAC) and received unanimous recommendations of support from the Planning and Zoning Commission (October 20, 2025). Staff also reached out to several developers within the City to solicit feedback to the proposed changes and received favorable feedback.
During the first reading of the this amendment, a question was raised regarding whether the amendment would limit the ability to continue using Palm Trees as allowed under Ordinance 2024-01. After reviewing both ordinances, Staff confirmed that the proposed amendment does not restrict or alter the use of palms to meet the City's landscaping requirements, and no changes were necessary to preserve the intent of Ordinance 2024-01.
Key changes include:
* Introducing a 10% base removal allowance without replacement or fee.
* Allowing administrative approval for removal of up to 10% of significant tree caliper inches and City Council approval for removals up to 25%.
* Establishing a tiered in-lieu fee structure ($100-$250 per caliper inch) based on tree size.
* Setting a maximum penalty cap of 2× base and a cost safeguard limiting total tree-related charges to 30% of the unimproved land value (up to 50% for unpermitted clearing).
* Creating a clear appeals process where fines are suspended while under review and a decision issued within 30 days...
Click here for full text