On what basis does the city arborist approve a permit?

The decision making criteria described in Menlo Park Municipal Section 13.24.050(a) are closely tied to industry standards and require the provision of evidence to demonstrate a heritage tree is: dead, dying or poses a significant risk, significantly restricts reasonable economic enjoyment of the property, or interferes with utilities.

Decision making criteriaDescription
Criterion 1: Death
The heritage tree is dead.
Criterion 2: Tree risk rating
The condition of heritage tree poses a high or extreme risk rating under the International Society of Arboriculture Best Management Practices.
Criterion 3: Tree health rating
The heritage tree is (a) dying or has a severe disease, pest infestation, intolerance to adverse site conditions, or (b) likely to die within a year.
Criterion 4: Species
The heritage tree has been designated as invasive or low species desirability.
Criterion 5: Development
The heritage tree interferes with (a) proposed development, repair, alteration, or improvement of a site or (b) the heritage tree is causing/contributing to structural damage to a habitable building. There is no financially feasible and reasonable design alternative that would permit preservation of the heritage tree.
Criterion 6: Utility Inference
The removal is requested by a utility, public transportation agency, or other governmental agency due to a health or safety risk resulting from the heritage tree’s interference with existing or planned public infrastructure. There is no financially feasible and reasonable design alternative that would permit preservation of the heritage tree.

Show All Answers

1. How do I measure a tree that has multiple trunks?
2. How much of a heritage tree can I prune without a permit?
3. Where could I get an application to remove or heavily prune a heritage tree?
4. What do I need to submit to the City for a permit application to remove or heavily prune a Heritage tree?
5. Is there a fee for the permit?
6. Do I need a permit to remove a dead heritage tree?
7. What is required for heritage trees related to development applications?
8. Could the city arborist come out and take a look at my tree before I apply for a permit?
9. Can the City recommend a certified arborist?
10. On what basis does the city arborist approve a permit?
11. How do I find the status of my permit application?
12. Can I appeal the decision?
13. Do I have to plant a replacement tree?
14. What if I don’t have any space on my property to replant a tree that has been approved for removal?
15. Is there a public platform to track permit applications, pending appeals, and proposed tree replacements?
16. What are tree appraisals and why are they required?
17. Will notices be required for decisions made under Criterion 1, 2, 3, or 4?