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City of Pleasanton—Hidden Canyon Residences and Preserve Biological Resources Draft EIR 3.3-20 FirstCarbon Solutions https://adecinnovations.sharepoint.com/sites/PublicationsSite/Shared Documents/Publications/Client (PN-JN)/2148/21480016/EIR/3 - Draft EIR/21480016 Sec03-03 Bio Resources.docx Pleasanton Municipal Code Tree Preservation Heritage Trees are illegal to remove without the appropriate permit. Chapter 17.16 of the Municipal Code defines a Heritage Tree as: 1. Any single-trunked tree with a circumference of 55 inches or more measured four- and one- half feet above ground level; 2. Any multi-trunked tree of which the two largest trunks have a circumference of 55 inches or more measured four and one-half feet above ground level; 3. Any tree 35 feet or more in height; 4. Any tree of particular historical significance specifically designated by official action; 5. A stand of trees, the nature of which makes each dependent upon the other for survival or the area’s natural beauty. However, the Municipal Code also states that the definition of a Heritage Tree “. . . shall not apply to fruit or nut trees when part of an orchard, the produce of which is used for commercial purposes” (Ord. 1737 § 1, 1998). Removal of Heritage Trees requires a permit from the City. Protection of Existing Trees Pursuant to Section 17.16.070 of the Municipal Code, all persons shall comply with the following precautions: • Prior to the commencement of construction, install a sturdy fence at the dripline of any tree which will be affected by the construction and prohibit any storage of construction materials or other materials inside the fence. The dripline shall not be altered in any way so as to increase the encroachment of the construction. • Prohibit excavation, grading, drainage and leveling within the dripline of the tree unless approved by the director. • Prohibit disposal or depositing of oil, gasoline, chemicals or other harmful materials within the dripline or in drainage channels, swales or areas that may lead to the dripline. • Prohibit the attachment of wires, signs and ropes to any Heritage Tree. • Design utility services and irrigation lines to be located outside of the dripline when feasible. • Retain the services of a certified consulting Arborist for periodic monitoring of the project site and the health of those trees to be preserved. The certified consulting Arborist shall be present whenever activities occur which pose a potential threat to the health of the trees to be preserved (for example, when work occurs within the dripline of trees to be preserved). • The director shall be notified of any damage that occurs to a tree during construction so that proper treatment may be administered.