§ 6-9. Permit decisions—Criteria.

The town administrator or designee shall consider the following factors in approving or disapproving an application for a permit that involves any tree within the town. The approval or disapproval shall be made in writing.

(1)

The extent to which tree clearing is necessary to achieve proposed development or land use.

(2)

Proposed reforestation.

(3)

The hardship which applicant will suffer from a modification or rejection of the application.

(4)

The desirability of preserving any tree by reason of its age, size, or outstanding quality, such as uniqueness, rarity or status as a landmark or species specimen.

(5)

The extent to which the area would be subject to environmental degradation due to removal of the tree or trees.

(6)

The extent of tree cover in the immediate area.

(7)

Whether the tree is diseased, injured beyond restoration or in danger of falling or for other sound forest management reason should be removed.

(8)

Whether the tree interferes with utility services or creates an unsafe condition.

(9)

The importance of the tree species as a permanent part of the urban forest.

(Ord. No. 92-4, 5-14-92)