(1) When development of property or installation of public utilities or other infrastructure may impact a public tree, every effort shall be made to preserve the tree’s health and structural integrity. Alteration of trenching routes, augering, or tunneling, beneath the root zone of such a tree may be required to meet this requirement. The City Forester shall be consulted during the design phase of each project to coordinate specifications for tree protection prior to excavation. Specifications shall conform to Provo City’s arboricultural standards and specifications.

(2) If in planning for development of a property, a public tree must be removed, written consent shall be obtained from the City Forester. Prior to issuance of written consent the tree shall be appraised using the most recent procedures and methods accepted by the ISA and Council of Tree and Landscape Appraisers. The appraised value of the tree to be removed shall be paid to the City by the permittee. Funds generated through payments for public tree removal shall be used to purchase and plant replacement trees for use in parks and other public property.