Exceptions and exemptions from article requirements

(a)

During the period of an emergency, such as hurricane, tropical storm, flood or other act of God, or in the event that any tree shall be determined to be in a hazardous or dangerous condition so as to endanger the public health, welfare or safety of the community, or when the tree prevents a person from the use or enjoyment of the property; or when removal of the tree will prevent further damage and its removal is required, the applicant shall provide photographs and any other supporting materials which will allow a sound judgment to be made. Upon such a finding, the requirements of this article may be waived by the city manager.

(b)

Prohibited trees shall be exempt from the replacement requirements of this article, but shall require a tree removal permit. Prohibited trees are those tree species that are detrimental to native plants, native wildlife, ecosystems, and human health, safety or welfare. Prohibited tree species includes those designated in the Miami-Dade County Landscape Manual, incorporated by reference herein, and the Ficus Benjamina/Weeping Fig. These species must be removed from sites upon site development.

(c)

Nothing in this article shall be construed to prevent the pruning of trees where necessary for proper landscape maintenance and safety provided that the pruning and trimming of trees is done in accordance with ANSI A-300 Tree Care Standards and the guidelines illustrated in the landscape manual.

(Code 1967, § 64-12; Ord. No. 8798, §§ 1, 2, 5-19-78; Ord. No. 9427, § 1(D), 5-27-82; Ord. No. 9769, § 1, 12-15-83; Code 1980, § 17-12; Ord. No. 13174, § 2, 5-13-10; Ord. No. 13274, § 2, 6-23-11)