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Why Palo Alto Has a Tree Protection Ordinance |
The City of Palo Alto is well-known for its tree-lined streets, parks, and private gardens graced by native trees and other specimens from all over the world. Two majestic species of native oaks give our urban forest its unique signature, the coast live oak (quercus agrifolia) and the valley oak (quercus lobata). Over eons, these trees dominated the landscape of the coastal valley. They are well adapted to local climate and soil conditions, providing protection from wind and heat, and habitat for many native species. They harbor the resiliency to live for centuries and provide a living heritage enjoyed by many generations. Many of our remaining heritage oaks are at least 200 years old. In addition to the native oaks, other native trees (such as redwoods) and trees planted by generations of settlers contribute to the aesthetic appeal of Palo Alto's neighborhoods. In recent decades, the pressures of successive waves of development and increasing urbanization have combined with natural cycles of drought and disease to accelerate the loss or threatened loss of many of our most valuable trees, on private property as well as public. Many of our landmark native oaks and other special trees have succumbed to the encroachment of structures and hardscape, and even to mistaken horticultural practices. Our historic tree assets can no longer be taken for granted. It has become increasingly apparent that the City needs to take an active role in managing and preserving both native and non-native specimens. This is being accomplished through a process of education and limited regulation. Palo Alto's Tree Protection Ordinance has been designed primarily for two purposes: 1. To educate residential and commercial property owners and developers about the unique characteristics and high value (both to owners and to the community) of mature native oaks and certain other individual trees officially designated "Palo Alto Heritage Trees." 2. To protect these trees from being removed or substantially damaged both during and in the absence of development. A protected oak is a coast live oak or valley oak whose diameter is 11.5 inches or greater (circumference 36 inches) measured at 4.5 feet above the natural grade. The designation of Palo Alto Heritage Tree is entirely voluntary. |
