The Belmont City Council recently enacted new regulations to promote the healthy growth of trees and control the removal of trees within the city limits.
The new tree ordinance requires a permit for the following:
- To remove any tree species with a stem or trunk diameter greater than 10 (10") inches diameter at breast height;
- Any multi-stem or multi-trunks totaling greater than ten (10") inches diameter at breast height.
There is no fee for consulting city staff on a tree removal, and the city encourages residents to call with tree related questions. If a permit is issued, a fee is required.
One 15-gallon replacement tree is required if the tree removed was an Acacia, eucalyptus or Monterey pine. For other species, up to three 15-gallon replacement trees may be required depending on the size of the tree removed, and other conditions on the site. An in-lieu fee can be paid if the property owner chooses not to plant a replacement tree(s).
For information on pruning, protected trees and applying for a tree removal permit, contact the Belmont Parks & Recreation Department at 650-595-7441, or the Community Development Department at 650-595-7417, or go to www.belmont.gov.
For the full text of the tree ordinance, go to www.belmont.gov/municipalcode.
