URBAN FORESTRY
POLICY MANUAL
Public Works Department
Revised August 2015
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction ..................................................................................................................... 3 Who Cares for the Urban and Community Forest? ............................................... 4 Funding for the Urban and Community Forest ...................................................... 4 Tree Care Guidelines ..................................................................................................... 6 Tree Pruning Guidelines ............................................................................................... 7 Tree Preservation Guidelines .................................................................................... 11 Tree Removal Guidelines ........................................................................................... 14 Street Tree Asset Value .............................................................................................. 19 Master Urban Forest Plan Guidelines ..................................................................... 20 Tree Planting Guidelines ............................................................................................ 22 Planting Specifications ............................................................................................... 24 Tree/Hardscape Conflicts Guidelines ..................................................................... 27 Tree/Utility Conflicts Guidelines ............................................................................. 28 3 Introduction
The City of Riverside is know n as a “City of Trees.” Tree s beautify the landscape and enhance the quality of life for all residents. The Nati onal Arbor Day Foundation has recognized our City as a “Tree City, USA” since 1987 in honor of the care we provide for our trees. The purpose of the Urban Forestry Policy Manual (“Manu al”) is to provide guidelines for the preservation and protection of our tree heritage and the Urban Forest of Riverside. This Urban Forestry Policy Ma nual supersedes the 2007 Urban Forestry Policy.
The following pages document guidelines fo r the planting, pruning, preservation and removal of all trees in city rights-of-way s. These specifications are based on national standards for tree care established by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), the National Arborists Association and the Amer ican National Standards Institute. This Manual incorporates input from Public Works Department staff, the Park and Recreation Commission, City Council, various other Commissions and the citizens of Riverside.
This Manual is a reference for use by City staff, priv ate contractors, volunteer organizations and citizens when working in and around trees within City jurisdiction. 4 Who Cares for the Urban and Community Forest?
The approximately 150,000 street trees and 40,0 00 park and open spac e trees throughout Riverside are a community asset valued at more than $332,661,560. The urban forest provides environmental benefits, adds to property value and provides an enhanced quality of life for all residents.
Unfortunately, Riverside’s trees suffer from the rigors of urban life such as air pollution, limited water, vandalism, compacted soils, lim ited growing spaces, and the extremes of our Southern California climate. In order to re ap the benefits of this valuable asset, the care of Riverside’s Urban Forest must be a public/private partnership.
The City Council
Elected officials who provide lead ership, at the request of citi zens, ensure that trees are a priority in our community. The City Counc il oversees the General Fund, which supports the planting and care of the urban forest. They also make decisions regarding policies and ordinances, which pertain to the care and protection of trees on public property and the development of private property as it pertains to our Urban Forest.
Park and Recreation Commission
Appointed by the City Council, this nine-member Commission oversees the Urban and Community Forestry Program. The Commissi on has the power and duty to “Establish policies . . . for the planting, care and removal of trees in parks and on streets, subject to the rights and powers of the city council.”
Urban and Community Forest Ad-Hoc Committee
Appointed by the Park and Recreation Commission Chairperson, the Urban and Community Forest Ad-Hoc committee, together with Public Works staff, discusses issues and visits sites to make recommendations to the Park and Recreation Commission on tree issues in public landscapes.
An Ad-Hoc committee shall review the Urba n Forestry Policy Manual a minimum of every two years.
Public Works Department
The Department, under the guidance of the P ublic Works Director, provides the daily management and emergency services which sustain our urban forest and employs an experienced Urban Forester who specializes in the management of urban and community forests. The Public Works Department provi des planting and mainte nance services and also oversees contracted and permitted tree work on City trees.
Funding for the Urban and Community Forest
5 The primary source for funding is the General Fund. In an effort to augment limited City resources available for urban forestry, additional funding sources are often sought.
Alternatives include a “Perpetual Tree Care Fund,” public grants, private donations, and the use of volunteer labor for tree plantings.
Riverside’s Perpetual Tree Care Fund
This fund is separate from the General F und. It is managed through the Riverside Chamber of Commerce solely for the enhancem ent of the community forestry program.
Sources of revenue for the fund include cont ributions directly to the fund and other private donations. Tax-deductible contributions may be made to the Riverside Perpetual Tree Care Fund c/o the Great er Riverside Chambers of Commerce, 3985 University Avenue, Riverside, CA 92501.
Adopt-A-Tree Program
This program enables individuals to sponsor tree plantings. Indi viduals may select a preapproved planting site with in the City for which to sponsor a tree. The program is managed through the Riverside Chamber of Commerce.
Grants
The staff of the Public Works Department actively researches the availability of grants for community forestry programs. Monies from these grants help to augment and sustain the urban forest.
6 Tree Care Guidelines
The care and maintenance of City trees is both an investment and a very valuable resource. Trees in an urban environment are subject to many variables that affect their health: air pollution reduces a tree’s ability to make food; compacted soils from road and structure development interfer e with the uptake of nutrients and water; and sidewalks, curbs, streets and buildings limit the space fo r trees to spread their roots and branches.
Tree care, such as deep watering, proper pruning and pest control help a tree maintain its health and stability.
The guidelines in this Manual were devel oped to help reduce the many negative impacts on City trees and to provide for effective management of the urban forest. Following theguidelines in this Manual will result in an increase in the value of our trees and a reduction in the costs to maintain them.
It is the goal of the City of Riverside to work closely with our residents and property owners to proactively remove problematic trees such as those with invasive root systems that are causing chronic infrastructure dama ges and replace these problematic trees with appropriate tree species that are suitable for the surrounding environment.
Cultural Practices
Practices such as deep watering, prevention of damage to bark from string trimmers and mowers, the use of mulch or wood chips and proper pruning and staking, provide preventative care for trees. These practices help keep a tree healthy so it can maintain its own natural defense system.
Pest Control
Proper planting, pruning and care of trees are th e best ways to prevent pest problems. A tree has a natural ability to withstand a certain amount of insects and disease. When a tree suffers from other impacts, which deplet e its food-making capability (photosynthesis) and uptake of water and nutrients, its natural defenses are weakened.
When insect and/or disease infestations become a detriment to the tree, controls are used.
When pest control is recomme nded, natural or biological substa nces are considered first, with chemical pesticides used only when warranted.
Pest control is based on the timing and intensity of the infestation. Inspections of trees are made based on the time of year and w eather conditions that have favored the development of insect problems in past year s. Not all problems are predictable and may not be treatable. If there are requests by residents, an inspection is conducted and recommendations are made based on the timing and effectiveness of the control. 7 Tree Pruning Guidelines
Need for Pruning
Trees are pruned principally to preserve th eir health and appearance and to prevent damage to property and human life. Broken, d ead, or diseased branches are pruned to prevent decay from spreading. Live branch es are removed to pe rmit penetration of sunlight and air circulation which helps maintain a strong and healthy tree.
All public trees should be completely pruned on a periodic basis based on the needs of the species. Frequency depends on funding levels.
Additional tree pruning is done on an “as ne eded” basis. Specific examples where as needed work is authorized are:
1. Pruning tree branches that interfere with City utility lines.
2. Pruning tree branches that interfere with street light illumination and are not scheduled for periodic pruning within two (2) years.
3. Pruning tree branches that interfere with buildings or other private or public facilities.
4. Pruning hazardous branches, such as large dead branches greater than two (2) inches in diameter, hangers and structurally unsound branches.
5. Pruning tree branches that interfere with safe vehicular or pedestrian traffic.
6. Sucker pruning.
Property Owners Ability to Prune Trees
There are two options available to property owners who woul d like to have public tree(s) pruned more frequently than the scheduled trim cycle. First, a resident may pay a designated fee (see attached) to the City to have a tree trimmed out side the normal grid trim cycle. The City’s contractor will prune the tree within 30 days of the request.
Second, a resident may apply for a permit and hire a licensed and in sured contractor to trim the tree(s) according to City standards. A property owner may raise mature trees to eight (8) feet for clearance without a permit.
Tree Pruning Specifications
Any tree work performed on a City tree must be completed according to the City’s specifications. There are different criteria for pruning depending on the purpose for the pruning.
8
“Complete pruning specifications” are used when the entire tree needs to be fully pruned.
“Safety pruning specifications” require less pruning and are used when specific, possibly hazardous (dead/dying) branches need removal to eliminate all safety concerns. Safety pruning may be recommended in some circum stances instead of complete pruning.
Safety pruning specifications are used for “as needed” pruning and address only safety concerns. Safety pruning includes only the basic requirements to address the problem.
Where overhead wires pass through trees, safe ty and reliability of service demand that tree trimming be done to clear wires of br anches and foliage. The minimum clearance must be followed as established by the Ca lifornia Public Utilities Commission General Order No. 95.
All specifications are based on International Society of Arboriculture, National Arborist Association and American National Standards Institute criteria. This guarantees that Riverside’s City trees receive the best possible care.
The following trimming specifications are for the use of any permitted pruning of City trees.
Method of Operation
a. Trim trees to lighten and balance the tr ees, according to cu rrent International Society of Arboriculture Western Chapter standards.
b. Remove dead wood and crossing branches.
c. Remove suckers.
1 d. Remove diseased branches.
e. Encourage radial distribution of all bran ches to provide a su fficient number of scaffold branches to fill the circular spaces as concentrically as possible around the trunk.
f. Final trimming cuts shall be made without leaving a stub. Cuts shall be made just outside the branch collar. Extreme fl ush cuts, which produce large wounds and weaken the tree at the cut, shall not be made.
g. Trimming shall provide adequate clear ance for any obstructed street sign, streetlight or other approved standard.
1 Vigorous, upright growth arising primarily from below the graft union or the ground from trunks or the roots.
9 h. Over sidewalks, branches shall be rais ed a minimum of nine (9) and a maximum of twelve (12) feet from grade to wood. Where sidewalks do not occur or are located on the street side of a parkway, branches may be retained below the minimum elevation, providing they conform to the natural shape of the species.
i. Over residential streets, branches shall be raised gradually from 12 feet curb to 16 feet over traffic lanes from gr ade to wood giving the appe arance of an arch rather than an angle. Near driveways where automated refuse containers are placed, it is imperative to have 15 feet of clearance.
j. Over arterial streets, branches should be raised a minimu m of 14 feet and a maximum of 16 feet from grade to wood. A major arterial st reet may require a higher maximum over central traffic lane s for existing, mature, canopy-forming branches.
k. Whether over sidewalk or st reet, where the lowest bran ch is attached to a trunk above the desired elevation but extends be low that elevation, it shall be cut back to a large lateral near the desired elev ation, if possible, rather than removed altogether, in order to avoid giving the trunk a skinned appearance.
l. Trimming shall not exceed the amount n ecessary to achieve the specified elevation at the time of raisin g and to compensate for tree species and trim cycle.
No branch over three inches in diameter will be removed without prior City approval.
m. No lion-tailing. An effect known as "lio n-tailing" results from pruning out the inside lateral branches. Li on-tailing, by removing all th e inner foliage, displaces the weight to the ends of the branches and may result in sunburned branches, water sprouts, weakened branch structure and branch breakage.
n. Topping, stub cutting, hat racking, pollarding etc. is not acceptable.
General Requirements
a. Certified Tree Workers – All persons performing tree work on City trees should be trained according to tree care standard s accepted by the International Society of Arboriculture, Western Chapter.
b. Certified to Work Around Electric Lines – All persons performing tree work on City trees in or around primary electrical lines must be trained to do so according to the “Electrical Safety Orders” of the State of California, including all amendments and revisions.
c. Certified Arborist – Any City contracted tree company shall employ a full-time, permanent Certified Arborist, as accred ited by the International Society of 10 Arboriculture. This person is responsible for ensuring that the contractor’s crew is performing work according to the City’s specifications. It is also recommended that Riverside residents use a firm that employs a Certified Arborist for any tree work.
d. Contractor Qualifications – All contractors are required to have a state contractor’s license for tree work (C-61). Contractors are required to adhere to the specifications provided in the bid documents.
Safety Pruning Specifications
a. Proper disposal of all tree debris generated.
b. Adhere to proper traffic control standa rds as adopted by the American Public Works Association, latest adopted version.
c. Assure adequate safety of employees and the public in accordance with CalOSHA and Senate Bill 198
.
Safety tree pruning shall consist of the total re moval of those dead or living branches as may menace the future health, strength and attractiveness of trees. Specifically, trees shall be pruned according to the Tree Pruning Specifications as outlined on pages 7, 8 & 9. 11 Tree Preservation Guidelines
Trees are an essential element of Riversid e’s image and quality of life. Hardscape elements, such as sidewalks, curbs, gutters and driveways, are al so indicative of the City’s commitment to maintain its infrastructure. Over the years, broken and damaged sidewalks, curbs, gutters and driveways will have to be replaced throughout the City. As a result, many trees will be involved. Whenev er possible curbs, gutters and sidewalks should be meandered away from the tree thereby providing more growing space for roots.
To manage this process and protect existing trees, the following departmental guidelines have been established:
1. Root Pruning
a. Whenever sidewalk, curb, gutter or driveway replacement occurs within four (4) feet of a tree, the Public Works Department will inspect the site for tree impact assessment. Root pruning may be performed on any tree that the Public Works Department determines can be safely performed without jeopardizing the life of the tree.
b. All roots greater than two (2) inches in diameter must be cleanly cut to encourage good callus tissue. It is recommended that roots be pruned back to the next root node.
2. Sidewalk Renovation - Trees that would be seriously impact ed by root pruning during sidewalk replacements will be inspected by the Urban Forester in coordination with the Street Division to determine whether:
a. The repair work can be deferred and a temporary patch used to eliminate any hazard until other steps can be reviewed and implemented.
b. The tree can be saved by narrowing the sidewalk near the tree, while still leaving sufficient sidewalk width for di sabled access. Standard disability access width is four (4) feet.
c. The tree can be saved by relocating the sidewalk onto private property and negotiating the appropriate easement.
d. The tree can be saved by replacing the sidewalk with minimal disruption of the roots (alternatives: a tempor ary sidewalk, rubberized sidewalk, use of root barrier fabric, raising the sidewalk grade over the roots, an informal walkway; etc.).
e. To remove the tree and replace it with a minimum 15 gallon replacement tree.
12 3. Curb and Gutter Replacement - Trees that would be seriously impacted by root pruning during curb/gutter replacement will be inspected by the Urban Forester in coordination with the Street Division to determine whether:
a. Where six or more trees along one side of a block are severely affected, consideration is to be given to relocating the curb and gutter into the street along the entire block.
b. The tree can be saved by replacing the curb and gutter with minimal disruption of the roots (alternatives: temporary curb and gutter; use of root barrier fabric; rubberized panels, or by other methods).
4. Recovery Period
a. When significant root pruning on two side s of a tree is required, there will be a 24-month separation between sidewalk and curb/gutter repair to allow time for tree roots to recover and wo rk shall be authorized by the urban forester.
b. An exception to this policy may be made if the curb/gutter or sidewalk is relocated away from the tree, or othe r measures are employed that reduce or eliminate root involvement or it is otherwise determined by the Urban Forest Section that root involvement is minimal.
5. Construction Projects on City Property - The following guide lines have been developed to protect trees on City property during construction projects:
a. A root protection zone sh all be defined by a mi nimum 42" high barrier constructed around any potentially impacted tree. This barrier shall be at the drip line or at a distance from th e trunk equal to 6 inches for each inch of trunk diameter 4.5 feet above the gr ound if this method defines a larger area.
b. Should it be necessary to install irrigation lines w ithin this area, the line shall be located by boring, or an altern ate location for the trench is to be established. The minimum clearance be tween an open trench and a street tree shall be one (1) foot , or six (6) inches for ea ch inch of trunk diameter measured at 4.5 feet above existing gr ade if this method defines a larger distance. The maximum clearance shall be ten (10) feet. The contractor shall conform to these provisions unless otherwise directed by the City.
c. At no time shall any equipment, materials, supplies or fill be allowed within the prescribed root protecti on zone unless otherwise directed by Public Works Urban Forestry Divi sion.. The root protection zone is defined as the larger of the drip line of 1) the tr ee or 2) the distance from 13 the trunk equal to six (6) inches for each inch of trunk diameter measured at 4.5 feet above existing grade.
d. It is recognized that failure to ab ide by these provisions will result in substantial root damage to trees th at may not be immediately apparent.
The City will therefore assess damages according to the International Society of Arboriculture standards and bill the responsible party.
6. Release Requirements
a. In order for construction work to begi n that will impact a tree, a signed release form must be issued by the Public Works Department. This release shall be based on the condition of the tree and an assessment of the impact of the proposed construction. Mitigation measures necessary to protect the tree will also be stated.
b. In the event a tree must be rem oved, Public Works Urban Forestry Division will issue a Tree Removal Permit.
7. Protecting Tree Roots From Vehicular Compaction
a. In order to protect our urban forest and this City asset, it shall be unlawful for any vehicle to be parked in the p ublic right of way, under the drip line of a City tree in non-paved areas such as parkway strips. 14 Tree Removal Guidelines
The Public Works Department is responsible for the mainte nance of the street tree system. Individual trees can affect the environment of the total community.
The Public Works Director or the Director’s designee shall have the authority to remove any hazardous, diseased or declining trees, providing that the removals meet the existing criteria as stated in the policy.
The Director or Designee shall authorize all tree removals with the authority granted in this policy and a quarterly report will be provided to the Park and Recreation Commission.
The Director shall provide the Park and R ecreation Commission with a quarterly listing of the tree removals for the Commission’s re view.. The list shall include the locations of the trees and the reason for removal.
Hazard Tree Removal
Hazardous tree inspections sha ll be completed, including photo documentation of the condition of the tree(s).
A hazardous tree is one that is dying, dead or structura lly weak; a traffic obstruction; or injurious to the health, safety, or welfare of the general public.
When a tree is determined by authorized staff to be a hazard, the tree will be removed and a replacement tree will be planted at the next appropriate planting cycle , unless inadequate parkway space exists or the lo cation constitutes a hazard. Where long-term repairs can be made to sewer laterals, side walk or curb and gutte r without endangering the stability of the tree, the tree will not be removed.
“Inappropriate” Tree Removal
An inappropriate tree possesses undesirable characteristics signifi cant enough to have caused their elimination from future planting of street trees, as determined by the Park and Recreation Commission. Undesirable tree species shall be identified, approved by the Commission, and published.
There are three (3) types of inappropriate trees:
1. Class I Inappropriate - Tree species that cause chronic damage to infrastructure (i.e. curbs, gutters, sidewalks or other st ructures and trees) which, in the opinion of the Commission, are causing a nuisa nce to the property owner significant enough to necessitate removal of the tree.
15 2. Class II - Tree species that meet the gene ral definition of an inappropriate tree, but the undesirable characteristics ar e not significant enough to necessitate removal of the tree (e.g., heavy fruit dr op, susceptibility to wind damage, susceptibility to disease or insect infestation, etc.).
3. Non-conforming Trees - These are trees that may be in satisfactory health, but do not provide a benefit to the overall appear ance of the community; trees that were started as volunteers and not removed; trees planted by residents/businesses without permits; or trees that may cau se extensive dama ge to surrounding hardscape areas if allowed to mature.
Removals Because of Economic Considerations
A tree considered for removal must meet Crite ria #1 and three (3) of the remaining four (4) following criteria before a remova l is considered because of economic considerations..
1. Cost of damage exceeds 1/3 of the value of the tree.
a. The problems caused by the street tree must exceed at least 1/3 the dollar value of the tree as established by the International Society of Arboriculture’s Tree Replacement Book. For example, a tree valued at $10,000 must have caused at least $3,333.00 in damages.
2. Damages have caused potential liability issues.
3. A request made for removal that authorized staff concurs to be a legitimate request.
a. Recurring problems related to the tree within a 10-year period. The tree has lifted or broken the sidewalk more than on ce within 10 years, has broken the sewer lines more than once, (etc.), or other physical damage to hardscape.
4. Comparable problems or concerns in the surrounding area would not lend themselves to removal of all the trees in that area.
These criteria may not apply toward trees that are considered to be historical, landmark, or in a sensitive ecological and/or historical area.
Removal Process
16 1. Tree removal reports, shall be pres ented quarterly at the Park and RecreationCommission meeting.
2. Tree removal appeals will be reviewed by the Urban Forest Ad-Hoc committee of the Park and Recreation Commission For multiple requests from the same neighborhood each tree will be assessed in dividually and up to a maximum of 20% can be removed within a three-year period, unless the tr ees pose a potential safety hazard or if there is full commun ity support and approval to remove all the trees that are considered problematic on one (1) street of a neighborhood and replace with an approved appropriate species. The Public Works Department will track removals to protect neighborhoods from excessive removals. Unless hazards exist or if there is full commun ity support and approval to remove all the trees that are considered problematic on one (1) street of a neighborhood and replace with an approved appropriate species, additional removals from a neighborhood will not be considered for th ree years, to establish the replacement trees.
3. Inappropriate trees, i.e., Shamel Ash, (F raxinus uhdei) Carob (Ceratonia siliqua) and California Pepper (Schinus molle) trees, that are approved for removal by the Park and Recreation Commission, will be rem oved within three years, contingent on funding. A property owner may choose to pay the City half of the removal cost and have the tree removed within 120 days, contingent on funding.
4. Trees approved for removal may be removed by a property owner through either of the following:
a. A payment to the City of Riverside to have the tree removed and replaced, per the approved fee schedule. If it is determined that a replacement tree is inappropriate, the replacement tree may be planted elsewhere on public right of way.
b. A property owner may obtain a Remova l Permit from the Public Works Department for removal at the owner’s expense and subject to payment of a fee for the removal and replacement of the tree.
5. Class II Inappropriate trees, i.e., Holly Oak and Evergreen Elm Trees, may be removed and replaced, at the property owne r’s expense provided that the total neighborhood removals do not exceed 20%.
6. Shamel Ash Trees may be removed and re placed with an approved 24” box tree, at the property owner’s expense and provided th at the total neighborhood removals do not exceed 20%.
Programmed Tree Removals
17 1. Developed by the Director or his Designee based on the severity of overall deficiencies including width of parkway, species, conditio ns of trees, or extent and number of recurrences of chronic structural damage to improvements which shall be approved by the Commission.
2. This program removal may, wherever practicable, be scheduled on a multiple year schedule and remove alternate/intermittent trees so as not to remove all trees at one time, as determined by the Park and Recreation Commission.
Site Restriction
1. Trees located so as to prevent a legal improvement to the property.
2. Street improvement plans are subject to the conditional requirements imposed upon the approval by the Public Works Department.
3. The property owner shall remove the tree(s) at owners expense upon issuance of a permit by the Public Works Department and subject to the conditional requirements imposed upon the approval (e.g., payment of fees for mitigation based on the Asset Value, removal and replacement plantings).
Accident/Unauthorized Removals
1. Trees that are removed due to damage from vehicular accident or other accidental causes or trees removed without legal authorization.
2. Trees removed either due to damage from an accident or unauthorized removal shall be replaced by the City using funds from any insurance settlement or fines assessed.
Specific Removal Policies
1. Consideration shall be given to retain trees by means of
a. Relocating sidewalk and/or any utilities
b. Root pruning trees
c. Installation of root barrier s where it is deemed appropriate and in the best interest of the tree as determined by the Public Works Department.
2. Trees shall be replaced by the Public Work s Department at the next appropriate planting cycle within one hundred and twenty (120) days, provided funding is available according to the Department Planting Guidelines.
18 3. When street improvements mandate that palms or wood trees be removed, if the species is adapted to replan ting, every reasonable effort sh all be made to relocate said trees.
4. Fees are required for replacement trees and are set by the fee schedule. All replacement trees will be a minimum of 24” box size.
5. Trees may require relocation and preserva tion at the discretion of the Public Works Department.
6. One year of maintenance will be required by property owner or contractor for all trees relocated. The property owner will wate r the tree, at owner’s expense, to aid its survival a minimum of one year after relocation.
7. The Park and Recreation Commission must approve any request for the removal of four (4) or more trees in a quarter mile square.
Stump Grinding
1. Stump grinding will be limited to the imme diate area of the st ump and all visible surface roots within the City right-of-way. Private property is not to be renovated for the removal of surface roots or sucker growth.
2. The void created by the grinding operation will be filled with materials slightly higher than grade to allow for settling. Where no replacement tree is designated, the backfill shall contain approximately 60% soil and overseeded with appropriate plantings.
19 Street Tree Asset Value
The Street Tree Asset Value describes the asset value of any public tree. It is the dollar amount assigned to a public tree, as dete rmined by the International Society of Arboriculture.
An asset value will be considered for any public tree. This value will be used:
1. When a public tree must be removed b ecause of a construction project that impacts the public right-of-way
2. When the Park and Recreation Comm ission considers any public tree for removal
3. When any public tree is damaged and must be removed or is illegally removed.
The Diameter at Shoulder Height (DSH) will be determined for the tree (s). The asset value will be established as $50 per inch and rounded down to the nearest inch.
The asset value is based on the following formula:
A 24” boxed tree is used as the standard size. The average DSH of a 24” box is 2 inches.
The cost to purchase and plant a 24” boxed tr ee based on the current contract price is $205.00. The cost for plant establishment of th is new tree is $40. To tal cost for planting and establishing a 24” boxed tree is $240.00 or $100.00 per diameter inch.
The City acknowledges that some trees are more valuable than others depending on species, location, tree health, etc. A 50% discount will be used to allow for these variables. Therefore, the standard assessed value of any tree will be $50 per diameter inch at shoulder height (DSH).
20 Master Urban Forest Plan Guidelines
One of the most important aspects of caring fo r Riverside’s trees is to ensure an ongoing heritage of appropriately planted trees for future generations. All trees planted must conform to the Master Urban Forest Plan, which designates the species of City trees to be planted on each street.
Tree planting requires planning. The Master Urban Forest Plan Guidelines were designed to provide optimum tree selection in order to reduce future probl ems and expense. The guidelines are used to facilita te the species selection based on a review of tree size at maturity as well as physical characteristics. Each neighborhood block has been evaluated and designated species have been chosen and approved by the Park and Recreation Commission to ensure that the right tree is planted in the right place.
The Master Urban Forest Plan takes into cons ideration the full size of a tree at maturity and whether it will fit the growing space. Other characteristics considered are the tree’s growth rate, litter from fruit or leaves, insect or disease problems, water needs, temperature hardiness, soil requirements, aesthetics and design criteria.
Another reason for a plan is to make certain that there are never too many trees of one species in an area of the City or Citywide . Large populations of one tree species may be lost during an insect or disease epidemic.
Many streets in Riverside are designated with more than one species. This will help reduce the spread of insects and disease on a block-by-block basi s and decrease the potential for losing entire populations of a speci fic species in the case of a pest epidemic.
Along streets which have mature trees of a single species which provide a closed canopy, such as Camphors, or otherwise provide a sp ecial aesthetic quality, the single designated species will be maintained whenever appr opriate. The following pages describe the guidelines for determining a designated species for a street.
The following should be considered when designa ting species for a new City street or for revising the Master Urban Forest Plan:
1. No more than 5% of the total trees in Riverside will be any one species. Trees that currently comprise more than 5% of Riverside’s public trees are:
Mexican Fan Palm (Washingtonia robusta)
California Fan Palm (Washingtonia filifera)
Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica)
Shamel Ash (Fraxinus udei)
Holly Oak (Quercus ilex)
2. General tree characteristics to be encouraged are (not listed by priority):
Drought tolerance
Heat tolerance
21 Minimal allergy problems (pollen production)
Native to California
Minimal root damage potential
Long life span
Good branch strength and structure
No major insect/disease problems
Good cold tolerance
Low maintenance
Large shading potential
Future wood utilization/recycling potential
Low amount of natural hydrocarbon production
No messy fruit/other plant parts
Showy flowers
Replacement tree species shall be selected by the Public Works Department based on site conditions and tree planting guidelines.
22 Tree Planting Guidelines
The following guidelines have been developed to promote the health and safety of City trees for years to come. These guidelines and specifications are required for any tree planting on City property or within City right-of-ways.
The City has a goal of planting all vacant sites on City property or within City right-of- way, which meet the requirements for an appr opriate planting site (See Planting Site Specifications). The tree planted must be the designated species as per the most current Master Urban Forest Plan.
The City also has a goal of replacing all trees, which are removed, based on the Tree Removal Guidelines that meet the require ments for an appropriate planting site.
Whenever a vacant site is considered for plan ting or whenever a City tree is removed a replacement tree will be planted if the following conditions are met:
1. Adequate spacing (both aboveground and underground) is present to allow healthy growth to maturity.
2. Location is conducive to good management pr actices and does not overly disrupt maintenance activities or utilities.
3. Future maintenance, especially water, is available.
4. Funding is available for planting.
Standard replacement size would be an appropr iate 24" box in commercial areas and 15 gallon in residential areas, unless limited by a grant for trees of a lesser size.
Property Owner Plantings
If a property owner wants a tree planted soone r than the City schedule can accommodate, the conditions may be met:
1. Obtain a permit allowing the property owner to provide the planting at his or her own expense following the City of Riverside’s planting specifications.
2. Request that volunteers be asked to schedule the planting when time is available.
3. Pay the City’s fee to have the tree planted by the City’s contractor.
Care of Newly Planted Trees
23 Care of young trees must be a partnership between the City and residents. The City monitors newly planted trees for the first three years. This includes verifying that the tree is properly pruned, staked and tied and receiving deep wateri ng by the resident. If you notice that a newly planted tree needs water, re-staking, or is otherwise not growing well, please notify the City immediately. Neighbor hood trees need the attention of residents who live near them to make sure they grow healthy and strong.
A common cause of death among young trees is da mage to the bark by string trimmers and lawn mowers. It is necessary to keep the ground around the trunk bare except for wood chip mulch. Wood chips may be used, however, neither wood chips nor bark should be placed against the tree’s trunk. Any weeding or clipping around the base of the tree’s trunk must be done by hand tools to prevent injury to the bark. 24 Planting Specifications
Street Tree Planting
The Urban Forester shall be the responsible authority for determining the appropriate species or variety of trees planted within the public streets rights-of way or easements.
B. Specific Planting Policies
1. Street trees shall be planted according to the Master Plan a nd in accordance with Department Standard Specifications. The Master Plan maybe updated and revised as needed by the Public Works Department.
2. A minimum of one street tree shall be plante d per lot. Property with frontage of 65 feet or more shall have trees planted at an average maximum spacing of 35 feet (tree to tree) on center. The actual number and spacing for planting will be based on the established canopy width of the designated species as approved by the Park and Recreation Commission. To preserve the integrity of the street tree pattern, where site constraints preclude planting of a street tree within the rights-of-way, trees may be planted on private property in those instances where an easement for that purpose has been provided.
3. Property owners may plant street trees at the owner’s expense in accordance with Department standards and subject to prior written approval of the Department.
4. Planting of street trees shall be requir ed at the time the property abutting the rights-of-way is developed. The owner of the abutting property shall be responsible for the costs of furnishing, in stalling and providing a minimum of the first year of maintenance for all street tree plantings.
5. To maximize the square footage of tree ca nopy and its benefit to the City, all new and redeveloped properties both residentia l and commercial shall be required to provide funding for public trees. Fees are established by the City Council. The City, through its contractor, will schedule planting of the street trees on or before the time occupancy permits are issued.
6. Tree removal through a permit by other agencies shall be subject to both mitigation and replacement fee and shall be replaced by the City’s Public Works Department within 120 days.
7. Fertilization and water of all street trees within the City shall be the responsibility of the abutting property owner, except in reverse frontag e and median strips that are maintained by the City. The Public Works Department is responsible for all other maintenance after completion of the maintenance period and written acceptance by the Department.
25 8. Tree planting is not required in stre et right-of-ways abutting undeveloped property. If the property owner desires to plant the street right-of-way abutting the owner’s undeveloped property, the owner must provide an automatic irrigation system and shall be responsib le for the cost of installation and maintenance. The Public Works Dire ctor, upon approval by the Commission, may require the posting of a bond of a suffi cient amount to guarantee installation and care of the appropriate improvements.
9. When the sidewalk is located next to the curb, the trees shall be planted a minimum of one foot from the right-of-wa y line within the public street right-of- way line or easement. Where right-of-w ay is not available adjacent to the sidewalk, the trees should be planted in easements behind the sidewalk whenever possible. When a tree well in the sidewa lk is the only possible solution, a tree will be selected that will not cause or result in long-range curb or sidewalk damage.
10. In the interest of public safety and maintenance, trees shall be planted:
a. A minimum distance from the inters ection, to provide adequate sight distance. Minimum distance shall be 30 feet from beginning of curve at the curb return, except at secondar y and arterial streets where the minimum shall be 50 feet.
b. Five (5) feet minimum from fire hydrants, service walks, and driveways.
c. Ten (10) feet minimum from sewer laterals, other utility services laterals and water meters.
d. Fifteen (15) feet minimum from lamp standards.
e. With consideration given to those vari eties of trees that will not create a conflict with existing overhead electric utility lines.
11. All trees, other than palm trees, shall be a minimum 15-gallon size in residential areas and 24" box size in commercial ar eas as determined by the American Association of Nurserymen. Smaller/la rger sizes may be permitted/required by the Park and Recreation Commission.
12. A larger sized tree may be planted, provi ded that the property owner pays the difference in cost.
13. Palm trees planted in nonresidential areas shall be at the discretion of the Public Works Department.
14. All newly planted trees (except palms) shall be staked per Department standards.
26 15. All staked trees shall be inspected duri ng the regularly scheduled grid trimming cycle. Stakes are to be adjusted or removed as necessary.
16. All trees planted in tree wells shall be installed and irrigated in a manner that promotes deep rooting per Department standards. All trees in wells shall be installed with an automatic irrigation system, if funding is available.
27 Tree/Hardscape Conflicts Guidelines
In keeping with the City’s policy to preserve and protect he althy trees and to provide for the safety of citizens, the following guidelines have been established for correcting hazardous situations that result from tree roots disturbing hardscape in the public right-of- way.
Inspection
When tree roots are suspected of causi ng hardscape damage, the Public Works Department shall inspect the tree and asse ss the potential damage. The size, species, structure/condition, and (externa l) environmental factors w ill be considered before a recommendation is made.
1. Trunk size (DSH) and height
2. Desirability of the species
3. Structure, condition and health of the tree
4. External or environmental factors such as proximity to overhead or underground utilities
Recommendations
A tree will be recommended for removal or root pruning if it meets the conditions outlined in this Manual.
28 Tree/Utility Conflicts Guidelines
Sewer Lines
In keeping with the City’s policy to preserve and protect healthy trees and to provide free flowing sewer lines, the following guideline s have been established for addressing situations that may result from tree roots invading sewer laterals.
Responsibility
City of Riverside Municipal Code 14.08.020 require s the City to maintain private lateral sewer lines from the property line to the point of connection to the City’s main sewer line. All persons shall keep their house conne ctions (sewer lateral line from the house to the connection at the property line) in good orde r at their own expense and shall be liable for all damages which may result from failure to do so.
If the property owner believes a City owned tree has caused a sewer lateral problem, the owner should contact the City’s Call Center at (951) 826-5311 for instructions on dealing with the problem.
Procedure
Following notification of a potential sewer/City-owned tree conflict, the Public Works Department will forward all pertinent information to the Risk Manager. The Risk Manager will assign a City contractor to in spect the sewer line to determine damage and the City’s responsibility if any. The Public Works Department will conduct a site visit to determine if there is a public tree, the tr ee species, location and report back to Risk Management.
Water Lines
In keeping with the City’s policy to preser ve and protect healthy trees and to provide uninterrupted water service, the followi ng guidelines have been established for addressing conflict situations that result from tree roots.
Responsibility
Residential water lateral lines are the sole re sponsibility of the property/business owner.
Owners are responsible for the lateral line begi nning at the water meter, which is located in the right-of-way to the building. This includes sections of the lateral that may be under City sidewalks.
29 In the event of a leak or break in the lateral line, owners are responsible for determining the cause and repairing the line between the building and the City water meter. The City’s Water Division is not responsible for dete rmining the cause of, or repairing the residential/business lateral line.
If the property owner believes a City owne d tree has caused the problem, the owner should contact the City’s Call Center at (951) 826-5311for instruc tions on dealing with the problem.
Procedure
1. Notification: When notified of a potential water lateral line a nd City owned tree conflict, the Public Works Department is to take all of the pertinent information and forward that to the Risk Manager.
2. Inspection: The Risk Manger will assign a contractor to inspect the water line to determine damage and the City’s res ponsibility if any. The Public Works Department will conduct a site visit to dete rmine if there is a public tree, the tree species and its location in relation to the water meter and lateral line and report to Risk Management.
3. Follow Up: Risk Management will determine if the water lateral needs to be repaired.
4. If the lateral is to be repaired by the City ’s contractor and if the water line can be rerouted away from the tree, then the Risk Manager will coordinate repairs with Public Utilities.
5. If pruning the City tree roots can repair the water lateral, then the Risk Manager will notify the Public Works Department to coordinate pruning with their contractor.
6. If the lateral is to be repa ired by the City’s contractor and if the repairs cannot be made without removing the tree, then th e Public Works Department will be notified and the removal will be scheduled.
Electric Lines
In keeping with the City of Riverside’s policy to preserve and protect healthy trees and the City of Riverside’s Public Utility to provide reliable electric service, the following guidelines have been established for addressing conflict situations that result from tree branches and foliage that interfere with electric lines.
30 Responsibility
Residential and Commercial Elect ric Service lines affected by private trees are the sole responsibility of the property/business owner. Owners are res ponsible for the service line beginning at the power pole to the point of connection to the home or business unless strain or abrasion is present per General Order No. 95 Rule 35.
If the service wire shows signs of damage from contact with a private tree, Public Utilities will
1. Repair the wires and install tree guard;
2. Re-route the service so that it does not contact the tree; or
3. Drop the service to allow the homeowner to trim the tree.
Due to the extensive requirements for Utility tree workers and the lack of qualified tree firms, the City has established a procedure th at would allow resident s the ability to use the City’s tree maintenance contractor for service line clearances and private tree removals.
Property owners would contact the Public Works Department and request a written estimate for the work. Work will be schedu led by the Department if the property owner agrees to the price estimate and provides written authorization for services. All clearance trims shall adhere to the City’s standard for trimming.
Only transmission, primary and secondary electri c lines are the respons ibility of the City of Riverside; cable TV and te lephone lines are the re sponsibility of those agencies or the tree owner. Based on the California Public Utilities Commission’s General Order No. 95 Rule 35, Riverside Public Utiliti es is required to keep City owned utility wires clear of branches and foliage from nearby trees.
Line Clearance Trimming Procedure
When possible, property owners will be notif ied at least 48 hours in advance, via a door hanger of scheduled line clea rance services, with the exception of emergency and high priority situation.
It is the intent of the City to trim for line clearance on an annual cycle. Minimal trimming clearance standards will adhere to the California Public Utilities Commission General Order No. 95 Rule 35. Trimming pr actices will be outlined under the “Tree 31 Pruning Specifications” of this policy. Trimming clearances will be based on tree species and circuit trimming cycles.
Line Clearance Removal Procedure for Trees in the Public Right-of-Way
It is the goal of the C ity of Riverside to pl ant the right tree in th e right space, with long- term objectives of gradually removing inapprop riate trees in the pub lic right of way.
Inappropriate trees are those that grow too large to be compatible with the wires. They will be removed and replaced where warranted with appropriate species.
The Public Works Department will identify those trees under wires needing removal and establish a long-term removal and replacement program. Adjacent property owners will be notified of the City’s intent to remove and replace a public tr ee that is interfering with overhead power lines. Removal of trees, grinding of stumps, and planting of new trees, will follow the specifications outlined in this policy.
Line Clearance Removal Procedure for Trees on Private Property
It is the goal of the City of Riverside to remove trees on private property that grow too large to be compatible with the wires. The Public Works Department will identify those trees under wires needing removal and establ ish a long-term removal program. Trees will be flush cut according to the specifications outlined in this policy. If the species of tree is one that suckers from the base, the stump will be treated as much as possible to kill the tree.
Property owners will be notified of the City’s intent to remove trees that are growing within the utility easement and that interfere with overhead pow er lines. Those property owners who do not want the tree removed will be notified of the City’s intent to continue to keep the wires safe on a two year trimmi ng cycle. The property owner may be billed for all additional trimming costs in excess of the two-year circuit trim cycle.
Line Clearance Procedures for Public Palm Trees that Interfere with Wires
The City of Riverside recognize s the value of palm trees to the City’s heritage. Every effort will be taken to preserve and protect palms where they have a significant impact on the public right-of-way. Public Utilities and Public Works staff will inspect palm tree wire conflicts to determine if the wires can be protected or rerouted without removing the tree.
Where appropriate, adjacent property owners w ill be notified of the City’s intent to remove the tree. A hardwood tree or a small stature palm compatible with overhead wires will be replanted where appropriate.
32 Line Clearance Procedures for Private Palm trees that Interfere with Wires
It is the goal of the City of Riverside to e liminate private palm trees that interfere with electric wires. Public Utilities and Public Works staff will inspect private palm tree wire conflicts to determine a course of action depending if the palm is directly under or to the side of the wires.
Palms located under the wires within the util ity easement will be flush cut and removed dependant on funding. Those palms outside th e easement will be cut six feet below the wire and the property owner will be responsible for removing the remainder of the tree.
When possible, property owners will be notified of the City’s intent to cut or remove the tree. Where property owners do not want th e palm removed, and where the palm can be trimmed to keep the wires safe, Public Utilitie s will continue to trim the tree. Once the palm reaches the wires and can no longer be trimmed, the heart of the palm will be removed. The property owner may be billed for all excess trimming costs necessary to increase the trimming frequency of the circuit.