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 Sandy Springs
 Development Code
 Article 9. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
 Div. 9.3. - Tree Conservation

  § 9.3.6. Landmark Tree  

Latest version.

  • A.

    Landmark Tree means:

    1.

    Hardwood tree 27 inches DBH or larger;

    2.

    Pine tree 30 inches DBH or larger; or

    3.

    Dogwood or redbud tree ten inches DBH or larger being in fair or better condition.

    B.

    The destruction or removal of Landmark Trees pursuant to this subsection is permitted only in the following instances:

    1.

    If the Landmark Tree is located within the building footprint of the proposed construction, as permitted by the City; or

    2.

    If the Landmark Tree is located outside of the permitted building footprint, and the City Arborist determines that the permitted land disturbance or construction activity will require the removal of the Landmark Tree based upon:

    a.

    The size and configuration of the property;

    b.

    A tree assessment by an International Society of Arboriculture certified arborist indicating that the tree is dead, dying or hazardous;

    c.

    The total tree canopy on the property;

    d.

    The configuration of buildings, structures and utilities on or adjacent to the property;

    e.

    Cost effectiveness of potential alternatives to tree removal;

    f.

    Whether the tree contributes to meeting any of the requirements set forth in this Article or other requirements set forth by the City;

    g.

    Generally recognized good forestry practices; or

    h.

    Other factors creating undue hardship for the applicant; or

    3.

    If the Landmark Tree's health is poor or the Landmark Tree is dead.

    C.

    All Landmark Trees removed pursuant to Sec. 9.3.3.A. must be replaced by the planting of new trees on the property of a comparable species and with a canopy potential of 150% of the canopy of the Landmark Tree to foster the enhancement of the tree canopy. Canopy mitigation is computed using the actual measured canopy of the Landmark Tree.

    D.

    If the City Arborist determines that replacement of the Landmark Tree is not practical based upon the size and configuration of the property, payment may be made into the Sandy Springs Tree Bank in lieu of replacement planting. The compensation for the lost tree canopy below the canopy requirements is calculated on a square foot lost/replaced basis as set forth in the canopy and cost assignment table contained in Sec. 9.3.8.D.

    E.

    In calculating a Tree Removal Permit, the preservation of existing Landmark Trees in the side, front and rear yards will receive 1.25 square feet of mitigation credit for each lot of canopy planted.

( Ord. of 4-17-2018(7) , §§ 9-23—9-25)