Tree Preservation and Tree Protection Plans

Tree protection is essential during construction projects to protect existing trees in and near construction projects. Protection is focused on the tree, and the tree protection zone (TPZ), the area of the tree's dripline, directly under the outer circumference of the tree's branches.  This is a critical area to protect, as roots located here provide stability and access to nutrients for the tree. Trenching, paving, storing construction equipment or materials and driving heavy equipment across unprotected roots or altering drainage patterns within and near this area can hurt the tree, or require the tree be removed. 

The following specifications should be incorporated into the tree protection plan for projects that may impact trees. A tree protection plan should be determined for each tree that is to be preserved for any development project. While it is seldom possible to save every tree at a construction site, the following provisions and principles can apply to most situations to sustain vigor and minimize adverse growing conditions. Whenever possible, the City encourages the inclusion of existing trees into development design and planning.

Please see the linked handout for more information on small projects and tree protection plans: Small Projects and Protected Trees

Preservation Specifications

1. Proposed development plans and specifications shall prepare a tree protection plan for existing trees to be preserved for the project. Any tree care practices, such as cutting of roots or pruning, shall be adequately described and shall be approved by the Urban Forestry Program Manager or Urban Forestry Program representative. Damage to or illegal removal of existing trees shall be a violation of Chapter 37 of the Davis Municipal Code and penalties can be levied.

2. Trees shall be fenced prior to construction. Soil compaction under trees is to be avoided. The fence shall prevent equipment traffic, material storage under the trees, and parking of construction vehicles from under the trees and should extend just beyond the dripline. Excavation within this zone shall be accomplished by hand, and roots 2" and larger shall be preserved.

3. Proper fertilization and irrigation prior to, and during the construction period shall be provided as specified in the tree preservation and protection plan.

4. New landscaping under existing trees shall be carefully planned to avoid any grade changes and any excess moisture in the 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 dripline shall be performed only with prior approval of the Urban Forestry Program Manager or their designee. Directional 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 dripline 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 tree protection plan 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 protection.

Note that any preservation measures put into place as approved in the tree protection plan must remain in place until the conclusion of the project.