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Englewood Cliffs City Zoning Code

§ 30-22.7

Criteria for Tree Removal.

[Ord. #2000-04, § 7; Ord. #2005-11]
a. 
The following criteria for tree removal shall be considered by the approving authority:
1. 
The necessity of the removal of the tree in the context of the specific lot.
2. 
The condition of the tree.
3. 
The effect of the tree removal on the ecological systems.
4. 
The aesthetic and environmental character existing at the site of the tree removal with respect to existing vegetation on the property, the immediate vicinity and the general area.
b. 
Subject to the foregoing:
1. 
Interior Trees. Where (1) the applicant is an individual owner currently residing on the lot; and (2) represents by affidavit (a) the intent to continue residing thereon and (b) that neither the transfer of title nor demolition of the principal building is being contemplated within 12 months following the date of the application; and (3) there has been no demolition, construction or removal of trees on the lot within 12 months precedent to the date of application; then: as respect to any trees on the lot other than those referred to in paragraphs b2 through b6 below, the approving authority shall consider the applicant's request in its most favorable light and shall have the right to waive the replacement trees as provided in subsection 30-22.9 herein unless it determines the tree or trees to be of overriding environmental or aesthetic value.
2. 
Building Footprint. The applicant may remove trees (except shade trees) located in, or within 15 feet of, the principal building footprint.
3. 
Impervious Areas and Structures. The applicant may remove trees (except shade trees) located within an area to be utilized for a driveway, walkway, utility line or accessory structure, unless the approving authority determines the tree or trees to be of overriding environmental or aesthetic value.
4. 
Border Areas. No tree shall be removed from border areas except upon proof of overriding necessity. Trees in buffer areas should be preserved even if located within 15 feet of the principal building footprint, or within an area sought to be utilized for a driveway, walkway, utility line or accessory structure.
5. 
Frontage Areas. Trees in the area between the street line and the front and side setback lines of the principal building shall be preserved to the greatest extent possible.
Where trees have been removed from a border area, or from the area between the street and the setback lines, the highest priority should be given to tree replacement in the same area.