The city is now benefitted by trees which because of their age, size, type, historical association or horticultural value are of special importance to the city. The purpose of this chapter is to provide an opportunity for public and private entities to identify and protect these trees. (Ord. 695 § 1, 2000)

Trees may be designated as "heritage trees" because of their age, size, type, historical association or horticultural value. No tree standing on private property shall be designated a "heritage tree" without the consent of the property owner. The consent of the property owner shall bind all successors, heirs and assigns. Upon consent of the property owner, the city manager may designate such a tree a "heritage tree", provided that the tree's health, aerial space and open ground area for the root system have been certified as sufficient by Certified Arborist. (Ord. 828, 2013; Ord. 695 § 1, 2000)

The city may remove the designation of any tree as a heritage tree if the city manager finds that such designation is no longer appropriate. (Ord. 828, 2013; Ord. 695 § 1, 2000)

When a tree is designated as a heritage tree, a plaque so signifying may be placed near the tree. The public works department shall maintain all heritage trees located on city property or on public rights of way within the city. It shall be the duty of every owner of property upon which a heritage tree is standing to maintain that tree. The city may give advice and assistance to the property owners regarding proper maintenance of heritage trees. (Ord. 828, 2013; Ord. 695 § 1, 2000)

For purposes of tree removal, all heritage trees, whether located on public or private land, shall be subject to the limitations and requirements of the Scappoose Municipal Code 17.140, Public land tree removal. (Ord. 828, 2013; Ord. 695 § 1, 2000)