Root protection zone - an area around the base of a tree that is left at natural grade and where pavement is prohibited. It protects roots from injury and destruction by bulldozers and ensures the health and vitality of the tree.

Council rejects developer's grandfathering claim

Heritage tree saved by TPO, City Council

click picture to enlarge

(January 5, 2006) City Council snatched a heritage tree from the clutches of death today by refusing a developer's claim of grandfathering from the 2003 tree ordinance. Subsequently, the developer altered his plans to preserve this magnificent tree.

Unfortunately, a deficiency in the tree ordinance is allowing construction of pavement over the tree's root system. Deceptively called a "tree warranty" it allows developers to violate a tree's root protection zone as long they warrant the tree will not die before five years have elapsed.

Although this tree may survive, its growth and vitality will suffer because of soil compaction and root damage. For additional information see How soil compaction affects trees.

Read Express-News reporter Laura Jesse's story:Citing tree law, council rejects developer's plan

This development is in progress on the south side of Loop 1604 just west of Voigt Drive.