Ordinance 2909-06 - Laserfiche WebLink

required within the standard buffer. The city may require buffer width averaging in order to provide protection to a particular portion of a stream which is especially sensitive or to incorporate existing significant vegetative or habitat features into the buffer. Averaging shall not adversely impact the functions of the stream system. In either case, the adjusted minimum buffer width shall not be less than seventy-five percent of the standard buffer width. F. Protection of Significant Trees When Using Buffer Width Reduction or Averaging. . If buffer width averaging or reduction is utilized and significant trees are identified on the outer edge of the reduced buffer such that their drip line extends beyond the buffer edge, the following tree protection requirements must be followed: 1. A tree protection area shall be designed to protect each tree or tree stand during site development and construction. Tree protection areas may vary widely in shape, but must extend a minimum of five feet beyond the existing tree canopy area along the outer edge of the dripline of the tree(s), unless otherwise approved by the Department. 2. Tree protection areas shall be added and clearly labeled on all applicable site development and construction drawings, submitted to the Department. Temporary construction fencing at least 30 inches tall shall be erected around the perimeter of the tree protection areas prior to the initiation of any clearing or grading. The fencing shall be posted with signage clearly identifying the tree protection area. The fencing shall remain in place through site development and construction. 4. No clearing, grading, filling or other development activities shall occur within the tree protection area, except where approved in advance by the Department and shown on the approved plans for the proposal. 5. No vehicles, construction materials, fuel, or other materials shall be placed in tree protection areas. Movement of any vehicles within tree protection areas shall be prohibited. 6. No nails, rope, cable, signs, or fencing shall be attached to any tree proposed for retention. 7. The Department may approve the use of alternate tree protection techniques if an equal or greater level of protection will be provided. G. Buffers for Restored Stream Channels. When a culverted portion of a stream is proposed to be restored to an open channel, the buffer width shall be determined by the director following review of a critical area study. The study must include an analysis of the buffer width necessary to protect water quality and habitat functions of the stream. H. Hazard trees in buffer. The city may require that a hazard tree assessment be completed, and that hazard trees be removed from buffers, and trees replanted in accordance with the 43