A. While nonnative and invasive species should be kept under control and eradicated if possible, native understory vegetation shall be maintained and land disturbing activity shall be kept to a minimum. Stump pulling and use of heavy equipment is only allowed if the activity will not affect the health of adjacent trees.

B. An applicant shall protect any trees or landscaped area that must be retained during approved tree removal or vegetation maintenance work, pursuant to the protection provisions of BIMC 18.15.010.C.4.

C. Once a portion of a property is cleared, the property owner shall ensure that invasive species do not reestablish or expand into cleared areas.

D. Any tree or vegetation removal or maintenance undertaken without a permit pursuant to this section shall be done to ensure long-term health of the trees or vegetation. A property owner shall follow the ANSI A300 (Part 1 – 2017), Tree, Shrub and Other Woody Plant Management – Standard Practices (Pruning), or 60 percent live-crown ratio, whichever standard is more appropriate for the species.

E. A forest practice permit from the State Department of Natural Resources may be required pursuant to Chapter 76.09 RCW. Failure to obtain a forest practice permit when applicable shall be grounds for denial of all applications for permits or approvals, including building permits and subdivision approvals, relating to nonforestry uses of the land for a period of six years, in accordance with RCW 76.09.060. (Ord. 2021-07 § 2 (Exh. A), 2021; Ord. 2018-19 § 1 (Exh. A), 2018)