From: DC Government [mailto:dcdocs@dc.gov]
Sent: Tuesday, August 23, 2016 3:01 PM
Subject: DDOT Press Release: TOPS Updated to Reflect Tree Canopy
Protection Amendment Act
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FOR IMMEDIATE
RELEASE
Tuesday,
August 23, 2016
Media Contacts
TOPS
Updated to Reflect Tree Canopy Protection Amendment Act
(Washington, DC) – The
District Department of Transportation (DDOT) announced today that
effective August 25 the Transportation Online Permitting System (TOPS)
will be updated to reflect the new tree protection measures included in
the Tree Canopy Protection Amendment Act of 2015. The new law,
which took effect on July 1, 2016, amends the Urban Forest Preservation
Act of 2002 and among other changes, expands the number of protected
trees, creates a new level of protection for “heritage trees” and
increases the costs of removing healthy trees in the District.
In the past, only trees
greater in circumference than 55 inches were considered “special trees”
and needed a DDOT approved permit to remove. The act redefines a
special tree as a tree with a trunk circumference between 44 and 100
inches; this reduction in the circumference includes a significant
number of trees that did not previously require a permit for removal.
The fee for a permit will increase from $35 per inch to $55 per inch in
circumference. The fine for removing a special tree without a
permit increases from $100 per inch of circumference to $300 per inch.
In addition, the law
designates trees with a trunk circumference of greater than 100 inches
as Heritage Trees, and only allows the removal of these trees if they
are hazardous or if they are a species (Ailanthus, Mulberry and Norway
Maple) that is appropriate for removal. Heritage Trees deliver the most
benefit for the ecosystem by impacting storm water runoff, providing
habitat for species, and heat island mitigation. Applicants may
relocate and replant a heritage tree if it can be done without harm to
the tree. The Act also establishes a new requirement that trees planted
with Tree Fund resources, whether on public or private land, must
receive a survival check.
The Tree Canopy Protection
Amendment Act raises fees for the first time since 2005 and reflects
the higher costs to replace trees in the District. The additional
funding will also allow increased tree planting in parks, on school
grounds and other public spaces.
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The
mission of the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) is to
enhance the quality of life for District residents and visitors by
ensuring that people, goods, and information move efficiently and
safely with minimal adverse impact on residents and the
environment.
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