City of Davis

Introduction

The following specifications are intended as guidelines for the preservation of as many of the more valuable trees in Davis as possible and to sustain their aesthetic and physical benefits. A specific program should be determined for each tree that is to be preserved. It is seldom possible to save every tree at a construction site, however, the following provisions and principles can apply to most situations to sustain vigor and minimize adverse growing conditions for a particular tree. The City encourages the inclusion of existing trees into development design and planning.

Preservation Specifications

1. Proposed development plans and specifications shall clearly state protection procedures for trees that are to be preserved. Any tree care practices, such as cutting of roots, pruning the top, etc., shall be adequately described and shall have the approval of a representative of the Parks Division prior to execution. A penalty clause in event of damage to existing trees shall be replacement tree(s) of equal size in D.B.H. unless specified otherwise by the Parks & Open Space Administrator.
    
2. Trees shall be fenced prior to construction. Soil compaction under trees is to be avoided. The fence shall prevent equipment traffic and storage under the trees and should extend just beyond the drip-line. Excavation within this zone shall be accomplished by hand, and roots 1/2" and larger shall be preserved.
    
3. Proper fertilization and irrigation prior to, and during the construction period shall be provided as specified.
    
4. New landscaping under existing trees shall be carefully planned to avoid any grade changes and any excess moisture in trunk area. Existing plants which are compatible as to irrigation requirements and which compliment the trees as to color, texture and form are to be saved.
    
5. Trenching within the drip-line shall be performed only with prior approval of the Park Superintendent. Boring is preferred when feasible.
    
6. All paving plans and specifications shall clearly prohibit the use of soil sterilants adjacent to preserved trees.
    
7. Grade changes greater than one foot within the drip-line shall be avoided, and nothing other than a saw shall be used for root cutting.
    
8. It is the property owner or designated representatives responsibility to ensure that all trades/subcontractors and utility companies abide by preservation conditions.
    
9. From the conception of plans, architects, developers, engineers and/or planners shall locate and identify all existing trees on proposed project site plans and shall make every effort to comply with the City policies for tree preservation.
    

Further detailed information regarding City tree policies is available by contacting the Parks & General Services Department at (530) 757-5656.