 In
1994, Dallas implemented its first tree ordinance which
established basic standards for trees and landscaping on
commercial property (development). At the time, Dallas was
losing a significant portion of its tree canopy to disease,
development, and poor tree care. The ordinance sought to
encourage the voluntary protection of trees while allowing
home owners and developers to improve and care for their
property.After 15 years of implementation however;
developers, tree preservationists, and citizens recognize
that there are various problems with the current tree
ordinance and it needs revision.
To this end, the Committee established its Land Planning,
Development and City Codes Team, which is developing
recommendations to revise the Dallas Tree Ordinance. The
Team is working with tree preservationists, developers,
arborists, and city staff to strengthen the ordinance while
also providing flexibility and incentives to developers who
can build sustainable, tree-friendly properties.
By having a strengthened, incentive based Tree Ordinance,
existing urban forests can be better preserved and would
complement the city’s efforts to expand our tree canopy so
Dallas can be beautifully tree-lined.
In May and June 2009, the committee unveiled its draft
recommended changes, and encouraged public comment. It also
held a public hearing on
June 15, 2009 at City Hall to receive input from Dallas
residents, property owners and business. While the public
comment period has been completed, UFAC is considering each
input and suggestion received, and will soon release a final
draft recommendation to city council.
Interested parties are welcome to review the
pre-comment period draft,
along with the accompanying Tree Mitigation Matrix.
If you have questions or would like to learn more about
the Tree Ordinance Recommendations, please contact
Bill Seaman,
Land Planning, Development and City Codes Team Leader.
Additionally, you may wish to review
the Committee’s
“Know Dallas’ Tree Ordinance”
section to learn about Dallas’ existing tree ordinance. |
