For the past couple of months, the Citizen’s Advisory Committee (CAC) tasked with providing recommendations for development code updates, worked on revising the current tree removal standards with the intent of providing recommended language ahead of all other code amendments. The reason for prioritizing the tree removal standards is a result of the increased awareness regarding fire risk within the City of Jacksonville. Additionally, as guidelines continue to be drafted at the State level, the City will be able to easily adjust to make further amendments with the greater code update process.

Instead of lengthy notice requirements, these amendments make it so most residents will be subject to an administrative (over the counter) tree removal permit when certain conditions are met. The criteria for an administrative tree removal permit for most residentially-zoned properties are proposed to be that the tree is:

  1. In danger of collapse presenting a health and safety hazard;
  2. Necessary to be removed to protect an historic or primary residential structure;
  3. A fire hazard determined by the Fire Chief;
  4. Diseased or blighted endangering its survival and that of nearby trees;
  5. Located in a proposed building envelope, proposed street, driveway or parking area and there is no alternative development design eliminating the need for the tree(s)’ removal; or,
  6. A “Nuisance Species:” “Trees of Heaven” (Ailanthus Sp.), Cottonwoods, Poplars, Aspens (Populus Sp.), Leylandii Cypress (Cupressocyparis leylandii) and any other species designated Nuisance Species by the Historical and Architectural Review or City Council, unless subject to protection under Chapter 18.20.

In other zoning districts, including the Historic Core and General Commercial District, or when certain protections are in place, such as properties that include wetlands or riparian areas, applicants will be required to submit a standard Tree Removal Permit requiring a limited notice and Planning Director review. The approval criteria will be the same as the administrative process.

As far as next steps, the CAC sent their recommendation to the Planning Commission where they will hold work sessions and public hearings, before sending a recommendation along to the City Council. If you would like to review the current version of the tree removal standards, please visit jacksonvillecodeupdate.com/document-center and click the file Tree Removal Amendment CH. 18.