A. The historic preservation commission shall review nominations of heritage trees to be included on the heritage tree register; provided, that pending further review by the city council the duties of the historic preservation commission under this subsection shall be performed by the planning commission.

B. Criteria for Listing. Individual trees or tree stands may be designated heritage trees because they exhibit valued, unique characteristics that set them apart from other similar trees. Heritage trees shall meet one or more of the following criteria:

1. Specimen. A tree of exceptional size, form or rarity.

2. Size. Any tree with a DBH of 36 inches or more.

3. Species. Locally important native trees or trees and tree stands that are associated with the character of the community. Species that are rare in the area, with the exception of nonnative, invasive tree species.

4. Age. Trees of exceptional age.

5. Historic, Cultural or Habitat Significance. Trees associated with notable local or regional historical or cultural events, persons, structures or landscapes. Trees planted as commemorative trees. Trees that serve as important habitat for valued wildlife.

6. Ecological Value. Trees or tree stands with high ecological value due to their location, size, species and/or condition.

7. Aesthetics. A tree with special aesthetic value due to its form or function it serves in the landscape (for example, a landmark pair of trees that frame an entrance).

8. Location. Trees valued for their particular location.

C. Process for Designating Heritage Trees.

1. Trees may be nominated by the:

a. Owner; or

b. Any member of the public.

2. The historic preservation commission shall examine each application and make a determination based on the heritage tree criteria whether the tree or tree stands are eligible for the register; provided, that pending further review by the city council the duties of the historic preservation commission under this subsection shall be performed by the planning commission.

3. Once determination has been made, the historic preservation commission shall notify the property owner; provided, that pending further review by the city council the duties of the historic preservation commission under this subsection shall be performed by the planning commission. The property owner must agree to the nomination by signing a consent form attached to the nomination form.

D. Responsibilities for Owners of Trees on the Register. The heritage tree or tree stand is retained by the property owner and does not become property or responsibility of the city. Upon acceptance of a nomination, the city will list the tree or tree stand on the register. If requested, the city will provide the owner with a professional arborist’s assessment of the tree or tree stand.

E. Removal of Trees from the Register. Heritage tree designation does not prohibit a property owner from developing a property and/or removing a heritage tree. The owner shall consult with the historic preservation commission; provided, that pending further review by the city council the duties of the historic preservation commission under this subsection shall be performed by the planning commission, prior to removing of a tree.

F. Incentives for a Tree(s) on the Register. Heritage trees may receive density bonuses pursuant to BIMC 18.15.010.G.5.b. (Ord. 2024-30 § 1, 2024; Ord. 2016-11 § 2, 2016)