Ordinance 3323-13 - Laserfiche WebLink

• which case the Planning Director can reduce this ratio or allow shrubs to be planted as an alternative. On geologically hazardous slopes, the tree size shall be a minimum of 2 gallons or if bareroot an equivalent size. The Planning Director shall have discretion to reduce the number of trees to be cut if the proposed plan fails to replace over the long term the loss of functions and values of the buffer that may result from the cutting of trees. A tree inventory is required with the tree type and size shown on a site plan unless waived by the Planning Director. Only trees greater than a six-inch caliper within the outer half of the critical area buffer can be counted unless the trees to be removed are less than six-inch caliper. ii. Tree removal is limited to once every five years. iii. A tree that is an active nest site for a species of local importance or provides critical habitat such as an eagle perch shall not be cut. iv. If the buffer's edge has not been delineated and cannot be determined by the city, a wetland or stream buffer delineation will be required. v. If the trees to be removed are on a geologically hazardous slope, a geological assessment letter or geotechnical report is required unless waived by the Planning Director. A geologically hazardous covenant must be recorded prior to tree cutting. vi. Tree stumps must not be removed and all wood debris must be left within the buffer unless otherwise recommended by a biologist or geologist. A minimum of 25% of cut trees shall be left as snags approximately 20 feet tall unless within striking distance of structures, yards, or trails. vii. Where the stump of a big-leaf maple or other tree with a similar growth habit that has been approved for removal remains in the buffer, branches that sprout from the stump may be removed annually. viii. Prior to cutting, all trees to be cut must be marked, all required replacement plants must be on the property ready to be planted, and a Critical Areas covenant must be recorded. The replacement plants must be planted prior or immediately after the trees have been cut and placed in an area within the buffer that will be most beneficial to the stream or wetland. ix. A survey may be required if trees are to be removed near any lot line. x. Forest Practices — Where applicable, applications for tree removal shall also include a City of Everett Timber Harvest application and include an estimate of the number of board feet to be cut. xi. Planting of additional trees beyond what is required in this section or buffer enhancement may be required if trees have been cut without planning director approval. d. Weed removal. The removal of the following invasive, nonnative and noxious weeds in conjunction with a mitigation plan or buffer management plan approved by the director, including revegetation with native plants. The director may require that only hand tools or light equipment be used for removal. i. Invasive and noxious weeds identified in a list adopted by the city or county; 10