Background

On December 8, 2021, City Council directed staff to develop objective standards to preserve significant mature trees. Accordingly, staff has been working to prepare a mature tree preservation ordinance. Key aspects of the ordinance include:

• Defining a "Mature Tree"
• Developing Mitigation Strategies for Mature Tree Removal
• Developing Standards for Replacement Ratio/Size/Type
• Providing Incentives to Preserve Mature Trees

On October 26, 2022 and April 24, 2024, staff presented updates to the City Council on the development of the ordinance. More information, including agenda reports and meeting videos, can be found on the Meeting Agendas and Webcasts page.

Community Outreach

Public Workshop - March 28, 2023

A community workshop for the mature tree ordinance was held on March 28, 2023, and provided an opportunity for community members to learn about and give feedback on the City’s upcoming Mature Tree . Below is a link to the workshop slideshow presentation and comments that were received:

• Slideshow presentation
• Workshop comments

PC/UFAC Joint Study Session - June 29, 2023

A Joint Study Session between the Planning Commission (PC) and the Urban Forest Advisory Committee (UFAC) for the Mature Tree Preservation Policy was held on June 29, 2023, and provided an opportunity for the Planning Commission, UFAC and members of the public to provide feedback on the City’s upcoming mature tree ordinance. Topics included a mature tree definition, mitigation and replacement strategies, and preservation incentives. Below is a link to the workshop slideshow presentation and a comment card where further feedback can be provided. Comments can be submitted to ejedynak@encinitasca.gov.   

• Slideshow presentation
• Comment Card
• Meeting Audio ( Found under 2023 Committees, Subcommittees, and Task Forces - 06/29 Meeting)