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9.c) tree trimming policy Amended 1-20-15City of Scandia Tree Trimming Policy Adopted by the City Council October 16, 2012 Amended January 20. 2015 �. :. I ,'' ■ ► The City is adopting a uniform policy governing tree trimming and clearing of brush which serves to protect the City's investment in its roads, to maintain safe roadways for pedestrian and vehicular traffic, and to maintain general tree health. This policy will allow maintenance within the right of way including but not exclusive to, reshaping ditches, mowing, culvert repairs, and snow removal. The Public Works Maintenance Superintendent shall determine work based on priority, safety, and availability of equipment and staff. The Public Works Staff shall generally follow these guidelines in tree trimming and clearing of brush: Urban Right of Way (Adjacent to Roadways having Curb and Gutter): Trim trees to allow for a minimum 20' clear height and shape trees for aesthetic purposes and tree health. Remove diseased or dead trees and limbs. Remove trees or limbs blocking street signs, signals, or sight distances. Rural Right of Way (Adjacent to Roadways not having Curb and Gutter): Trim trees to allow for a minimum 20' clear height. Remove diseased or dead trees and limbs. Remove scrub trees and brush. Remove trees and brush to allow for routine maintenance. The flail mower shall not be used in a vertical position to trim trees. Schedule: This work is typically done during the winter months (November -March) by the Public Works Department during regular work hours. It is the City's intent to trim trees on all roadways within a 15 year cycle. Notification: Property owners shall be notified by mail at least 7 days prior to any trimming occurring on their property except in the case of an emergency as determined by the Mn enaRGe SupeFintondeptPublic Works Director. The property owner may contact the Public Works Director within those 7 days and ask for an onsite visit. If any issues are unresolved following the onsite visit, the property owner has 5 days to file a written appeal with the City Clerk's Office. Appeals will be heard at the next City Council meeting following appropriate notice. The Public Works Director will mark all trees to be removed that are at least 6 inches in diameter at a point measured 54 inches above the ground. Disposal of Tree Waste: The City's Public Works Department will either chip or haul the trees and brush off site. If the property owner wishes to keep non -disease tree waste, they may contact the City 24 hours in advance of removal. Emergency Cutting: This policy does not apply in the event that cutting is necessary to remove road obstructions or to eliminate trees or brush that is in imminent danger of collapse.