The city of Austin is proposing a new tree ordinance that would require that more trees be planted and older trees would be preserved under proposed rules that the Austin City Council will consider TODAY. The proposed rules would require developers to plant more trees in new subdivisions and in the parking lots of commercial projects, sucha s shipping centers and office complexes. The rules would also prevent landowners and builders from cutting down large, older trees unless they first sought a variance from the city.
The public hearing is TODAY, May 14th at 6pm at city hall. There are three draft tree ordinances: heritage tree, subdivision tree, and parking lot tree requirements.
Our local Home Builders Association and city staff have made progress on several parts of the ordinance during the past several months, trying to strike a balance between a healthy tree canopy and economic realities, but these proposals effect all SF-4 lots including exisiting platted developments and ETJ’s (extraterritorial jurisdiction). The HBA & Builders are seeking a more fair agreement.
To read more, click here.
To do more…
- Between 10am & 6pm TODAY, Thursday May 14th, sign up in opposition or support of council agenda items 62 (heritage trees) and 64 (subdivision trees). Park free om the city hall underground garage, go to the first floor, and use the computer to sign up.
- You can also sign up to speak at the 6pm meeting using the same computer.
- You can also email your thoughts to the City Council.
