Santa Cruz Municipal Code §9.56.040 establishes the Heritage Tree and Heritage Shrub designation process. Designation criteria include species, size, age, historic association, cultural value, and visual significance.
The Parks & Recreation Commission administers designation under §9.56.030. Once designated, a heritage tree may not be damaged or removed without a permit under §9.56.060. 'Damage' is broadly defined to include any cutting, topping, girdling, poisoning, trenching, or excavation that puts the tree in an irreversible decline. Trees on private property are eligible. Trees planted as agricultural crops (fruit/nut) are excluded.
Misdemeanor under §9.56.110, with mitigation under §9.56.100 (replacement valued by appraisal).
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