Hello everyone:

Recently, one of our industrial property owners removed some 20 year old pine trees that were on private property because the trees were dropping sap on the customers vehicles.  Once we found out about this, 11 trees had been removed.  We are also experiencing business owners that are removing sod and trees in the parking lot landscaping in order to save water.  Some are replacing it with water wise landscaping and others are just using rock mulch.  I am positive that we are not the only community that is dealing with this issue.

Sandy City Code requires new development to install landscaping as part of their site plan approval process.  Once the required landscaping has been installed, it shall not be removed without the approval of the Community Development Department (21-25-2 (g)(1)).

We also have our Tree Stewardship Ordinance that was created six years ago.  Among other specifics, this ordinance has a purpose statement that outlines the policy of having and maintaining quality landscapes on private and public property.  It defines citizen responsibilities when it comes to trees within parkstrips, and city responsibilities for all city maintained trees and landscaping.  We also use this ordinance when it comes to preserving trees during new development projects.

Our Administration has requested that we research what other communities have done, or are doing, in order to preserve trees. Will you please share your success stories about being proactive with any education programs or policies/ordinances about the preservation of trees on private property?

Thanks in advance for your help!