HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-05-07 Work Session Meeting PacketAgenda
City Council Work Session
City of Edina, Minnesota
City Hall Community Room
Tuesday, May 7, 2024
5:30 PM
I.Call To Order
II.Roll Call
III.Review of City Ordinance 10-82 related to Tree Protection and
Preservation
IV.Adjournment
The City of Edina wants all residents to be comfortable being part of the public
process. If you need assistance in the way of hearing ampli'cation, an
interpreter, large-print documents or something else, please call 952-927-8861
72 hours in advance of the meeting.
Date: May 7, 2024 Agenda Item #: III.
To:Mayor and City Council Item Type:
Reports / Recommendation
From:Luther Overholt, City Forester
Item Activity:
Subject:Review of City Ordinance 10-82 related to Tree
Protection and Preservation
Discussion
CITY OF EDINA
4801 West 50th Street
Edina, MN 55424
www.edinamn.gov
ACTION REQUESTED:
Receive the information related to the review of City Ordinance 10-82 for Tree Protection and Preservation.
Provide staff feedback and direction on next steps.
INTRODUCTION:
City staff is providing a review of City Ordinance 10-82 for the City Council to discuss the effectiveness and
process for residential tree protection and preservation since its inception on January 1, 2023. P lease see the
attached staff report.
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
Staff Report: Tree Protection Ordinance
Ordinance 10-82 Tree Protection and Preservation
BTE Public Participation Plan and Engagement Summary
BTE Public Engagement Feedback All
Staff Presentation
May 7, 2024
Mayor and City Council Members
Perry Vetter, Parks & Recreation Director; Tom Swenson, Assistant Parks & Recreation
Director; and Luther Overholt, City Forester; Laura Beres, Assistant City Forester
Review of City Ordinance 10-82 related to the Tree Protection and Preservation
Information / Background:
City staff is providing a review of City Ordinance 10-82 for the Edina City Council to discuss the
effectiveness and process for residential tree protection and preservation since its inception on January 1,
2023. There is a separate commercial tree ordinance in Section 36 of Edina City Code that is not part of
this review. The goal of the ordinance is to emphasize the protection of trees and to increase the
requirements for replacement. The following report will provide background and review for the City
Council to provide feedback and discuss potential next steps.
History of the Tree Protection Ordinance
In 2015, The City of Edina implemented a tree ordinance that called for the preservation and replacement of
protected trees during the following residential projects: demolitions, subdivision applications, building
permits for principal and accessory structures (i.e., garage, deck, or pools) and additions, principal or
accessory structures.
Protected trees in the 2015 ordinance refer to any deciduous tree that is at least 8 inches diameter at breast
height (DBH) or any coniferous trees at least 20 feet in height. A list of exempt trees was included for trees
that would not require mitigation if removed including box elder, poplar, willow, silver maple, black locust,
fruit tree species, and mulberry. This list was amended in 2019 to include ash trees due to the influx of
Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) in the State of Minnesota. Any tree that fell under either of the protected tree
categories that was removed during a residential development project required the mitigation of a 1:1
replanting ratio of similar tree with the replacement tree being at least 2.5-inch caliper for deciduous and 7
feet for coniferous. The ordinance also laid out exemptions to these mitigation requirements depending on
the location of the tree. If any removed protected trees were within a 10-foot radius of the building pad of
STAFF REPORT Page 2
the new home, 5-foot radius of a driveway or 10-foot radius of public infrastructure, those trees do not
require mitigation.
In 2019, the City of Edina Energy and Environment Commission (EEC) was tasked with developing a Climate
Action Plan (CAP) that was formally adopted by the City Council in December 2021. That planning team
consisted of a consultant team, city staff and community volunteers, including representatives from the Edina
Transportation Commission (ETC), Edina Planning Commission (EPC) and EEC. The adopted plan addressed
eight subsectors with 36 strategies supported by over 200 actions to achieve the CAP greenhouse gas
emissions reduction goals.
One of the eight CAP sectors is Greenspace and Trees (GS). Strategy GS-1 sets the goal to increase the
tree canopy from 35.9% to 39.5% by 2030 and 43% by 2040. In support of strategy GS-1, there are several
action steps for implementation, including Action Step GS-1-5:
Update current tree preservation ordinance requirements to protect tree root systems and large legacy trees
during construction. Explore options for increases in legacy tree protection and increases in performance-
based requirements of tree planting within parking lots.
In 2021, as part of the annual Commission Work Plan process several commissions drafted initiatives to
work on updating the 2015 tree ordinance. In 2022, an EEC Work Plan Initiative was “Support new
ordinance development or the modification of current ones to protect tree canopy." This included receiving
an ordinance proposal from the ETC regarding boulevard tree management and coordinating both staff and
EEC review and approval for advancement to City Council. Ultimately city staff did not support the creation
of a boulevard tree management permit and the City Council did not approve it.
Energy and Environment Commission Initiative
In 2022, the EEC voted at their August meeting to approve language to amend the residential tree
protection ordinance after receiving comments from the EPC and ETC. The amendment captured best
practices from local and regional cities, research and developing protection and replacement thresholds and
criteria. The EEC’s work had a single goal: to maintain Edina’s canopy of healthy, mature trees. Included in
the September 7, 2022, Advisory Communication from the EEC to the City Council was the identification of
the following revisions and outcomes of the proposed ordinance amendments to meet this goal.
At a high level, the EEC’s proposed revisions included:
• Deploying best practices in place at other cities – e.g., St. Louis Park, Wayzata, and Minnetonka –
that are currently lacking in our ordinance.
• Ensuring additional trees not covered by the current ordinance will require protection or
replacement:
More trees will be in the “Protected Status” group.
New group called “Heritage Status” group which carry additional replacement beyond
what’s required of Protected Trees.
Removing exemptions to the ordinance, while still allowing for flexibility when replanting is not an
option.
• Providing in-lieu fee revenue to assist in enforcement of revised ordinance.
STAFF REPORT Page 3
Outcomes of proposed revisions included:
• Fewer clearcut lots during redevelopment, and/or replanting required for a significant portion of
what is removed.
• Tree protection requirements linked to the size of trees.
• Align Edina with peer city tree protection best practices already implemented in the metro area.
• Additional fee revenue to directly fund enforcement of ordinance and tree management in Edina.
• Accountability for either protecting trees or replacing them if removal is the only option.
EEC Vice Chair John Haugen will attend the May 7, 2024, Work Session to provide additional background
on the work that was conducted from inception of the CAP to the recommendation to the City Council on
amending the tree protection ordinance. Separate from but related to this discussion the EEC is also
reviewing recommendations for updating Section 36 pertaining to the commercial portion to manage and
protect trees.
The following is a chronological timeline of the ordinance implementation.
Adoption of Tree Protection Ordinance
Upon advisory communication from the EEC and City Staff, the Edina City Council at the September 7,
2022, meeting held a first reading of the ordinance and a second reading and adoption on October 6, 2022.
The following table is a summary of the changes from the 2015 ordinance to the 2023 version.
STAFF REPORT Page 4
The ordinance was adopted with an effective date of January 1, 2023.
Ordinance Details and Workflow
1. Application and calculation:
During the permit application process the applicant is asked to provide a site survey, the Tree Protection
Checklist and the completed Escrow worksheets A-C. Worksheet A is the tree inventory for all existing
trees, applicant must include any trees that were removed within 1 year of the date of application to the list
as well. The tree inventory asks for the quantity, species, size, tree ID number (associated with the survey)
and the tree category (Removed, Preserved, or Transplanted). Worksheet B is the Escrow Calculations.
Using the total calculated sizes for each tree category from Worksheet A, Worksheet B calculates the
escrow amount and tree replacement quantities. Worksheet C is the mitigation plan for what is being
replaced. When this Worksheet is submitted, many applicants do not have a definite replacement plan. The
forestry division will ask that applicant includes the amount of replacement inches/feet and be listed on this
sheet.
2. Plan review:
Once the forestry division receives a permit, the review process begins. Initially the forestry division will
review to ensure all documents are submitted (escrow worksheets A-C, a site survey, and the checklist) if
any of these are missing the permit is immediately sent back to applicant. Once all documents are received
the forestry division will review the document information. The forestry divisions use many aerial and street
view sites for initial verification of trees present on the project site. If during these processes any trees
onsite are not indicated on the documents the permit is sent back to the applicant with corrections. Once
the forestry division has concluded that all documents match the existing or (1 year) prior conditions and
the escrow and replacement calculations are correct, the forestry division will send back the permit with the
final correction for instillation of tree fencing to be inspected prior to the permit being issued. Once fencing
is installed and inspected the forestry division will push the permit through approval and batch stamp all
uploaded documents. The permit will then be sent to the applicant with pending fees (all tree permits have a
$1.00 permit fee whether they have an escrow or not), once the applicant pays the pending fees the permit
will be issued, at this point the project work may begin.
STAFF REPORT Page 5
3. Escrow and release of escrow:
Escrow calculations are completed and verified at the time of the permit plan review, escrow is paid once
permit is approved before the permit is issued, once permit is issued project work can begin. Escrow release
comes at the time of building final, the permit holder must submit an escrow release form. Once a
landscape review is completed by the forestry division and all replacement requirements are met, 50% of the
escrow will be released to the permit holder. 36 months after the building final, the permit holder must
submit a final escrow release form with a landscape review conducted by a certified arborist, if all trees
onsite (including any preserved trees and replacement trees) are alive the final 50% of escrow is released to
the permit holder. If at this time any trees are found unhealthy, the permit holder may replace the trees and
receive the remaining 50% escrow. If during any time of the project or the 36 month-period there are
additional trees removed or the replacement trees are not maintained or replaced with proper tree
replacements the escrow will be deducted by the associated fee for those trees and retained by the city
permanently.
The following is a chronological workflow of the tree permit process from application to escrow release.
STAFF REPORT Page 6
First Year Implementation Review
The following information is a summary of the residential Tree Protection Ordinance implementation for
2023. This review includes both anecdotal and measured data. Please note that due to one year of data it is
not recommended to draw tendencies or any scientific correlations as the sample size and process is not of
adequate size nor weighted. Variables such as number of permits, lot size, type of project and scale of
project, are all factors that cannot be properly measured to draw conclusions or trends. The following data
compares building permits applied for in 2022 versus 2023.
Residential Development Tree Data
2022 2023
Mitigated Tree (replaced) 179 120
Removed Trees 569 356
Preserved Trees 1457 1957
Transplanted Trees 0 6
New Planted Trees 540 15
Donated Trees 8 0
Mean Escrow NA $21,663.98
Median Escrow NA $21,518.75
Largest Escrow NA $91,327.50
Smallest Escrow NA $1,980.00
Better Together Edina Feedback
City staff created a feedback page on Better Together Edina to capture responses from the community. The
feedback is attached in both summary and entire raw comments. As noted above, the feedback is not
statistically valid and should be viewed accordingly.
Respondents were asked their opinions on tree preservation, items liked least and liked most about the
ordinance, and if the replacement requirements justify the removal of protected and heritage trees.
Additionally, respondents were asked to rank types of projects and the level of replacement along with an
open-ended comment on alternate options for tree preservation.
STAFF REPORT Page 7
Identified Factors for City Council Discussion
Through the various points of connection on this review and implementation, the following points are
relative to discussing the one year look back and potential ordinance modifications. City staff do not have
the ability to modify the existing ordinance without City Council direction on desired outcomes and
identification of a process.
1. Distinguishing between permits/applications for unbuilt lots versus additions/remodels/rebuilds
2. Capping the escrow, changing the DBH cost, and alternate forms of escrow
3. Affordable housing exemptions
4. Types of permits that currently require a tree plan
5. Adding a certified arborist to the process for permit applications
6. Allowance for variances
7. Addressing newly adopted Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) projects
8. Process for potential amendments
Discussion Question #1 – Does the City Council desire to distinguish permit applications differently for unbuilt
lots versus additions, remodels or rebuilds?
The current ordinance does not address the difference between an unbuilt lot that has not had a structure
previously compared to a lot that currently has a structure that is up for application for a building permit.
Because those unbuilt lots are typically wooded, the mitigation requirements are higher as a building pad or
structure area was not previously constructed. If the Council is open to amending the ordinance to
distinguish for an unbuilt lot, is there a desired methodology for calculating the amount of square footage to
exempt? Example options could range from a percentage of the lot, a floor area ratio, or only protecting
heritage trees that could be exempted for a newly built lot permit.
Discussion Question #2 – Does the City Council desire to modify the financial components of the ordinance,
such as capping the escrow, changing the DBH cost or review alternate forms of escrow?
Currently there is no cap to the escrow and the methods of holding the escrow are currently limited to
Cash, Credit Card, Check, or a Letter of Credit. Letters of Credit are difficult to secure for residential use,
especially for landscaping. Staff has discussed the idea of a deferred assessment process, but it is most likely
not allowed. The current DBH/height value to the permit is $300 for protected trees and $500 for heritage
trees.
Discussion Question #3 – Does the City Council desire to make any changes to the ordinance that exempts
affordable housing or the valuation of exempt permits?
The ordinance currently exempts new home valuations under $350,000 and rehabilitation valuations under
$500,000 from all permit fees. There were no permit applications in 2023 that fit these criteria.
Discussion Question #4 – Does the City Council wish to remove certain permit activities that require a tree
plan as part of the application process?
STAFF REPORT Page 8
Applicants that apply for a building permit are required to provide a tree protection and mitigation plan.
Many of those permits do not increase the buildable area or structures to the lot. An option to streamline
that process would be to establish a permit value threshold where a tree plan is required. This would
reduce the workload of the applicant and the staff in the case of permits that do not increase square
footage, such as deck replacements or similar projects.
Discussion Question #5 – Does the City Council support the modification of the ordinance to include a
provision to require a certified arborist be part of the application process by the applicant?
The ordinance requires a responsibility and calculation that can be challenging based on the variables of the
site. While often applicants have landscapers and landscape design teams, a certified arborist to review the
trees on the existing site and propose a tree plan as part of the application would be of benefit to the
applicant and to permit review staff. Would the City Council be open to this provision for all permits or
those of a certain value? Currently a certified arborist is required to provide a landscape review 36 months
after the project is complete for the release of the escrow.
Discussion Question #6 – Does the City Council wish to incorporate a variance process for the tree
ordinance?
Variances are not allowed for landscaping based upon an opinion by the City Attorney. Variances are
allowed for zoning ordinances and are typically part of a dimensional setback or other related sites.
Discussion Question #7 – Does the City Council wish to address Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) differently in
the tree ordinance?
The ADU ordinance was recently passed and under the current ordinance the added structure would not
be differentiated from other structures on the property. If there is a desire to treat ADU’s in some other
fashion under the ordinance, it would be beneficial to know that aspect at this time.
Discussion Question #8 – Does the City Council wish to amend portions of the tree ordinance? What process
would the council prefer if updates are desired?
The current ordinance was originated as part of the EEC annual work plan. If there is a desire to make
amendments does the council have a preference or a recommendation for the process?
Summary
Residents of Edina have shown that natural resource management is important to the quality of life in the
community. The City Council has respected that value through its longstanding support of implementing
mechanisms to assist in the protection and management of those resources. This is evident by the adoption
of the Climate Action Plan, Tree Protection Ordinance and support of the various forestry and land
management initiatives that occur on park and public property. As the newly adopted version of the Tree
Protection Ordinance has been in place for just over one year a look back will be conducted with the City
STAFF REPORT Page 9
Council. Staff will present in greater detail the history, implementation, and discussion points of the
ordinance at the work session to ensure that tree protection and preservation is a priority in the
community.
Attachments:
• Ordinance 10-82 Tree Protection and Preservation
• Better Together Edina Feedback
Existing text – XXXX
Stricken text – XXXX
Added text – XXXX
222642v1
1
ORDINANCE NO. 2022-10
AN ORDINANCE AMENDMENT REGARDING
TREE PROTECTION
The City Council Of Edina Ordains:
Section 1. Chapter 10, Article III of the Edina City Code is amended to add Division 3 as
follows:
DIVISION III. TREE PROTECTION
Sec. 10-82. Preservation, protection and replacement of Protected Trees: This Division
applies to: grading permits, demolition permits; subdivisions applications; building
permit applications for principal and accessory structures including a garage, deck or a
pool; and additions to principal and accessory structures. This Division does not
apply to City parkland, which follows tree protection guidelines outlined in
Edina’s Comprehensive Plan and City Park Master Plan.
(1) Purpose: Edina is fortunate to have a robust inventory of mature trees that form
an integral part of the unique character and history of the city, and that contribute
to the long-term aesthetic, environmental, and economic well-being of the city.
The goal of this Section is to preserve Edina’s high valued trees, while allowing
reasonable development to take place and not interfere with how existing property
owners use their property. The purpose of the ordinance is to:
a. Preserve and grow Edina’s tree canopy cover by protecting mature trees
throughout the city.
b. Protect and enhance property values by conserving and adding to the
distinctive and unique aesthetic character of Edina’s tree population.
c. Protect and enhance the distinctive character of Edina’s neighborhoods
d. Improve the quality of life for all stakeholders, including city residents, visitors
and wildlife.
e. Protect the environment by the filtering of air and soil pollutants, increasing
oxygen levels and reducing CO2; preventing and reducing erosion and
stormwater by stabilizing soils; reducing heat convection; decreasing wind
speeds; reducing noise pollution and decreasing the urban heat island effect.
f. Protect and maintain healthy trees in the development and building permit
processes as set forth herein; and prevent tree loss by eliminating or reducing
compacted fill and excavation near tree roots.
(2) Definitions:
a. Protected Tree: Any tree that is structurally sound and healthy, and that
meets one of the following:
i. a deciduous tree that is at least 8 5 inches dbh, except box elders,
Existing text – XXXX
Stricken text – XXXX
Added text – XXXX
222642v1
2
poplar, willow, silver maple, black locust, fruit tree species, ash, and
mulberry.
ii. a coniferous tree that is at least 20 15 feet in height.
b. Removable Tree. Any tree not defined as a Protected Tree, and as defined as
an invasive species by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.
c. Critical Root Zone. The minimum area around a tree that is left undisturbed.
The critical root radius is calculated by measuring the tree’s diameter at
breast height. For each inch of tree diameter, 1.5 feet of root zone radius
must be protected. For example, if a tree’s dbh is 10 inches, then its critical
root zone radius is 15 feet (10 x 1.5 = 15). If the critical root zone of a tree
on site or an adjacent property must be disturbed for construction or
construction activity, a plan for the disturbance shall be submitted as part of
the Tree Protection Plan subject to review and approval of the city
forester to minimize the damage.
d. Diameter at Breast Height (dbh). The dbh shall be measured at a height of 4.6
feet.
e. Transplanted Tree. A protected tree which is removed from a lot
and replanted to another private lot or a public space in Edina.
f. Heritage Tree. A protected deciduous tree above 30” dbh and a
protected coniferous tree taller than 30 feet.
(3) Applications for all permit types identified in Sec 10-82 must include a tree
protection plan indicating where Protected and Heritage Trees are located and,
their species, caliper, and health. The plan must show how Protected and
Heritage Trees are preserved and protected during construction. The plan must
also show if any Protected or Heritage Trees are proposed to be removed and
the location, species and size of all replacement tree(s). The Tree Protection
Plan should be coordinated with the Stormwater Management Plan;
proposed and protected trees should be shown on the stormwater
management plan to ensure no conflicts.
(4) If a Protected Tree is removed, except as allowed for in paragraph (5), it must be
replaced with one (1) tree trees equal to at least 75% of the deciduous dbh
and 75% of the coniferous height in feet, as applicable , subject to the
following conditions:
a. Protected trees must be replaced with species of a similar type
(deciduous or coniferous) according to Part 11 that are normally
found growing in similar conditions and that are included in Hennepin
County’s “Recommended Tree List” . on the list of acceptable
replacement species on file with the city forester.
Existing text – XXXX
Stricken text – XXXX
Added text – XXXX
222642v1
3
b. Replacement trees must be varied by species.
b. Replacement trees must not be subject to known epidemic diseases or
infestations. Disease or infestation resistant species and cultivars are allowed.
c. Replacement trees must be at least three and one-half inches (23.5”) in
caliper for deciduous trees and a minimum of eight feet (78’) tall for
coniferous trees.
d. Replacement tree plans are subject to approval by the City Forester
before implementation.
e. The tree protection plan shall be verified at the time of final inspection for the
building permit.
f. If the city determines that there is no appropriate location for some or all the
required replacement trees, those trees will not be required on site.
f. Failure to replace protected trees on site results in a payment fee
of $300 per dbh below 75% of the dbh removed, or $300 per
coniferous foot below 75% of the foot removed.
(5) Protected Trees may be removed without mitigation, in the following areas:
a. Including, and within a ten-foot (10’) radius of, the building pad, deck or patio of a
new or remodeled building.
b. Including, and within a five-foot (5’) radius of driveways and parking areas.
c. Including, and within ten-foot (10’) radius of installation of public infrastructure
improvements including public roadways, stormwater retention areas and utilities.
(5) If a Heritage Tree is removed, it must be replaced with protected
trees at least 100% of the dbh or coniferous feet, subject to the
following conditions:
a. Heritage trees must be replaced with species of a similar type
(deciduous or coniferous) that are normally found growing in
similar conditions and that are included in Hennepin County’s
recommended tree list (xlsx).
b. Replacement trees must not be subject to known epidemic
diseases or infestations. Disease or infestation resistant species
and cultivars are allowed.
c. Replacement trees must be at least four and one-half inches (4.5”)
in caliper for deciduous trees and a minimum of ten feet (10’) tall
for coniferous trees.
d. Replacement tree plans are subject to approval by the City
Existing text – XXXX
Stricken text – XXXX
Added text – XXXX
222642v1
4
Forester before implementation.
e. The tree protection plan shall be verified at the time of final
inspection for the building permit. If the protection plan is not in
compliance, the inspection may not be approved.
f. Failure to replace Heritage trees results in a payment fee of $500
per deciduous dbh below 100% of the dbh removed, and as
applicable, $500 per coniferous foot below 100% of the
coniferous feet removed.
(6) Before construction, grading or land clearing begins; city-approved tree protection
fencing, or other method must be installed and maintained at the critical root
zones of the trees to be protected. The location of the fencing must be in
conformance with the approved tree protection plan. The fencing must be
inspected by city staff before site work begins. The fencing must remain in place
until all demolition and construction is complete.
(7) No construction, compaction, construction access, stock piling of earth, storage of
equipment or building materials, or grading may occur within the critical root zone
areas of trees to be protected, unless there are no other on-site alternatives. If
there are no other alternatives, a plan for this activity would need to be reviewed
and approved by the city forester and included in the tree protection plan.
A reasonable effort must be made when trenching utility lines to avoid the critical
root zone.
(8) When construction is complete all trees to remain must have the soil out to their
drip line aerated and de-compacted. Aerating must include multiple concentric
circles of 1” holes, 2” deep, or as recommended by an arborist.
(9) If Protected Trees and/or Heritage Trees were removed within one (1) year
prior to the date the development, subdivision application, demolition, grading
and building permit applications were submitted, these Protected Trees and/or
Heritage Trees are also subject to the replacement policy set forth in
paragraphs
(4) and (5) above.
(10) Any tree transplanted on-site shall not be counted as a protected tree or
heritage tree under this section and therefore does not require requires
replacement under this section, provided it is viable at 36 months after the
permit’s final inspection per Part 12.
(11) Amount of required replacement trees in (4) and (5) above shall be a
variety of types and sizes as demonstrated below. Species shall comply
with Hennepin County’s “Recommended Tree List.”
Existing text – XXXX
Stricken text – XXXX
Added text – XXXX
222642v1
5
Deciduous (dbh) Coniferous (in feet) Lot size < 1 acre Lot size >/= 1 acre
3½” or greater 8’ or greater 70% 50%
4½” or greater 10’ or greater 20% 25%
(12) Financial Guarantee.
a. The City shall, at its option, require cash escrow or a letter of
credit satisfactory to the City in the amount of 110 percent of the
value of the tree replacement identified in the tree protection plan,
securing the full performance of Tree Protection Plan. The amount
of such security shall be calculated by the fees described in Parts 4f
and 5f.
b. Release of Financial Guarantee. The financial security shall be
released based on the following schedule:
i. Upon issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy and approval
by City Forester that the Tree Protection Plan has been
met: Forester will inspect the site and calculate actual fee
owed based on how much dbh preserved or replaced on
site. The original escrow or line of credit, minus this fee, is
50% released at this time.
ii. 36 months after issuance of Certificate of Occupancy, an
applicant must submit a landscape review by a certified
arborist, indicating planted and preserved trees are still
healthy. If any trees are found to be unhealthy, the certified
arborist can replace these trees onsite and the balance of the
financial guarantee (50% of financial guarantee net of fees in
Part a) are released at this time. If the applicant does not opt
to replace trees onsite, these fees are considered owed to the
City and retained permanently.
Section 2. Chapter 24, Article I. Section 24-1 Definitions, in the Edina City Code is
amended to add the following:
The following words, terms and phrases, when used in this chapter, shall have the meanings
ascribed to them in this section, except where the context clearly indicates a
different meaning:
Alley means a public right-of-way owned by the city or over which the city owns an easement which
is less than 30 feet in width and which is used or is usable as a public thoroughfare.
Boulevard means that portion of a street not occupied by the traveled portion of the street or a
5½” or greater 12’ or greater 10% 25%
Existing text – XXXX
Stricken text – XXXX
Added text – XXXX
222642v1
6
sidewalk.
Easement means an easement owned by the city for any public purpose.
Park means property owned by the city which is used or is usable for park, recreation or open space
purposes.
Public grounds means any land owned by the city, or over which the city owns an easement, including
streets and alleys.
Right-of-Way means the surface and space above and below a public roadway, highway,
street, cartway, bicycle lane and public sidewalk in which the city has an interest,
including other dedicated rights-of-way for travel purposes and utility easements
owned by the city for city utility purposes.
Sidewalk means an improved thoroughfare located on a public right-of-way or public easement
limited to usage by pedestrians and nonmotorized vehicles.
Street means a public right-of-way owned by the city or over which the city owns an easement which
is 30 feet or more in width and which is used or is usable as a public thoroughfare.
Section 3. Chapter 24, Article I. Section 24-2 through 3 is added as follows:
Sec. 24-2 – BOULEVARD TREE PLANTING
The City of Edina encourages the planting of trees in boulevards adjacent to
homeowners’ properties. Residents are responsible for planting trees on the boulevard
area adjacent to their property and should consult the “Recommended Tree List” held
by Hennepin County to avoid planting tree species which detract from the
environment.
The City of Edina may initiate tree-planting on the boulevard.
Sec. 24-3 – BOULEVARD TREE MAINTENANCE
The City of Edina believes that it is in the best interest of the residents of Edina and the
general public to regulate the planting, maintenance, and removal of trees on City
boulevards, rights-of-way, and easements. The City encourages the proper planting and
care of trees within the City, in order to increase our overall canopy for the purposes of
aesthetics, traffic calming, and climate change response.
It is the responsibility of the adjacent property owner to maintain trees on their
boulevard. Sightlines along roadways must be maintained at all times; Planted trees
should comply with the regulations of City Code, Article VII – Clear Zone View.
Pruning should be done between the months of November and March for best care of
trees.
Existing text – XXXX
Stricken text – XXXX
Added text – XXXX
222642v1
7
Section 4. This ordinance is effective January 1, 2023.
First Reading: September 7, 2022
Second Reading: October 6, 2022
Published:
ATTEST:
Sharon Allison, City Clerk James B. Hovland, Mayor
Please publish in the Edina Sun Current on:
Send one affidavit of publication.
Bill to Edina City Clerk
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PLAN I TREE PROTECTION ORDINANCE I CITY OF EDINA 1
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PLAN
TREE PROTECTION ORDINANCE REVIEW
PLAN PURPOSE
Listen, learn, and have a dialogue with the community.
Test ideas, concepts, and develop solutions.
DECISION
Review and update, if necessary, the city’s Tree Protection
Ordinance
PARTICIPATION LEVEL: CONSULT
PROMISE TO THE PUBLIC
We will listen to and keep the public informed,
acknowledge concerns, and address any impact to the
public. We will work to ensure that concerns are reflected
in the options we develop. We will provide feedback on
how input influenced the decision.
DATE: March 11, 2024
PREPARED BY: Luther Overholt, Tom Swenson, MJ Lamon
PROJECT PURPOSE
- The City has heard from concerned developers about the tree protection ordinance specifically related to
the escrow. In an effort to ensure multiple voices are represented the City will conduct a public input
process to gather more comprehensive feedback from residents.
TIMELINE
- Project page launched March 21
- Feedback by April 28
- City Council work session May 7
PARTICIPATION LEVEL
CONSULT
- Goal: Obtain public feedback on analysis, alternatives, and/or decision.
- Promise: Updates will be presented, concerns taken seriously and acknowledged, and feedback shared on
how public input impacts decisions.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PLAN I TREE PROTECTION ORDINANCE I CITY OF EDINA 2
INTERESTED PARTIES
- Residents
- City Council
- Internal project team?
- ALL Neighborhoods
- EEC & ETC Commission?
- Developers
- Other
PROJECT SCOPE
IN SCOPE (WHAT WE KNOW)
- Policy review – ensure policy continues to protect trees in Edina
- Collection of ideas for improvement
OUT OF SCOPE
- Dissolving the policy
- Removal of escrow
- Any legal of technical requirements?
- Any driving design or scope?
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
OVERALL OBJECTIVES
- Provide a city-wide opportunity for others to provide feedback on the policy
P2 TECHNIQUES
1. On-line survey April 8, 2024-April 29, 2024
ENGAGEMENT REPORT
The Tree Protection Ordinance was under a one-year review. This engagement report will focus on the community
input review of the current Tree Protection Ordinance. The information gathered will be used to help City Staff
determine if there are necessary amendments to be made to improve the effectiveness of the ordinance.
BETTER TOGETHER EDINA PROJECT PAGE
- Site Visits: 659
- Aware Visitors: 525
- Informed Visitors: 300
- Engaged Visitors: 68
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION SUMMARY
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PLAN I TREE PROTECTION ORDINANCE I CITY OF EDINA 3
From the survey results, there was a consensus that the preservation of trees in neighborhoods is important to
many community members. The assessment of the results is that the Tree Protection Ordinance is beneficial to
Edina. Reviewing the results of the survey staff did notice a trend of confusion from participants from the
ordinance and the questions asked in the survey. Staff acknowledged that the ordinance may be difficult to
understand and worked on writing this survey to their best ability for participants to understand. Many
participants provided commentary on areas where the Ordinance can be amended. Many were in support of the
ordinance and that the general goals of the Ordinance are what the city needs.
CHOOSE ALL THAT APPLY; I LIVE IN EDINA, I BUILD IN EDINA, I VISIT/WORK IN EDINA OR NONE OF
THE ABOVE?
- I live in Edina: 60
- I build in Edina: 18
- I visit/work in Edina: 26
- None of the above: 1
These results provided staff with knowledge that most participants are providing their personal experiences with
the ordinance in effects to their neighborhoods.
DO YOU FEEL PRESERVING TREES IN RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBORHOODS IS IMPORTANT?
- 64 agreed
- 4 disagreed
When asked this question respondents were asked to state their level agree from strongly agree to strongly
disagree. The result of this question shows that people are in favor of trees in their neighborhoods.
HAVE YOU READ THE UPDATED TREE PROTECTION ORDINANCE?
All participants answered that they have read the ordinance. The ordinance was linked to this survey question to
allow participants to read through the ordinance prior to answering this question. Staff does recognize that the
ordinance is not in plain language and can be difficult to understand for people not familiar with this aspect of
development.
DO THE REQUIREMENTS OUTLINED IN THE TREE PROTECTION ORDINANCE UPHOLD THE VALUE OF
PRESERVING EDINA’S TREE AND NEIGHBORHOOD CHARACTER?
- 45 agreed
- 21 disagreed
- 2 did not know enough
This question allowed participants to answer with their level of agreement from strongly agree to strongly disagree
with the option of ‘I don’t know enough to provide a response. These results well in agreement with the ordinance
did provide insight for the areas of which the Tree Protection Ordinance is not being upheld.
WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT THE TREE PROTECTION ORDINANCE?
This question was an open comment question for participants to provide where the ordinance is best and what
parts of the ordinance, or the ordinance are effective.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PLAN I TREE PROTECTION ORDINANCE I CITY OF EDINA 4
WHAT DO YOU LIKE LEAST ABOUT THE TREE PROTECTION ORDINANCE?
This question was an open comment question for participants to provide where the ordinance is least effective and
what areas need to be reviewed for possible amendment.
DO THE REQUIREMENTS JUSTIFY THE REMOVAL OF PROTECTED TREES DURING REDEVELOPMENT?
- 20 agreed
- 23 disagreed
- 25 unsure
The review from the survey results showed that this question 7 as well as the following question 8 were difficult
for participants to understand and answer correctly. Staff recognized that these questions were not worded
properly, but staff did have difficulty writing this question for all participants to understand.
DO THE REQUIREMENTS JUSTIFY THE REMOVAL OF HERITAGE TREES DURING REDEVELOPMENT?
- 15 agreed
- 30 disagreed
- 23 unsure
This question gave us the same results as question 7, where there was confusion with participants in what the
questions were asking, and many were unable to answer correctly.
RANKING THE PROJECTS OF WHICH SHOULD HAVE THE HIGHEST TREE PROTECTION POLICY
REQUIREMENTS?
- 3.93 average ranked demolitions should have the highest tree policy
- 2.85 average ranked additions should have the lowest tree policy
These questions asked participants to rank the 5 current permit processes by which they believed should have the
highest level of the Tree Protection Ordinance requirements. Staff did add in any tree removal and a process to be
ranked since many residents over the year of the ordinance and during the development of the ordinance
suggested that staff should be managing all tree removals without a building permit being necessary.
WHAT ARE OTHER OPTIONS COULD THE CITY USE TO PRESERVE TREES DURING RESIDENTIAL
REDEVELOPMENT?
This question was an open comment question for participants to provide their thoughts on what else the city could
do to enforce the preservation of tree preservation. This response varied from full support of this ordinance to this
is not enough and this ordinance is too much on builders.
Survey Responses
30 January 2019 - 30 April 2024
Tree Ordinance
Better Together Edina
Project: Tree Protection Ordinance Review
VISITORS
307
CONTRIBUTORS
69
RESPONSES
69
69
Registered
0
Unverified
0
Anonymous
69
Registered
0
Unverified
0
Anonymous
Respondent No:1
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 08, 2024 14:28:08 pm
Last Seen:Apr 08, 2024 21:22:57 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
I build in Edina
I visit/work in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Strongly agree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
The fact that builders are not able to clear cut a lot for convenience. For too long, this was the standard practice of many
active developers in Edina. With the ordinance, builders must be more intentional about the lot prep process.
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
There needs to be a variance procedure. There also should be a carve out for wooded lots.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
Yes
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Any residential tree removal
2. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
3. Residential grading permits
4. Residential lot division applications
5. Residential demolition permits
6. Residential new home permits
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
We cannot go back to the old ordinance which was toothless and unenforced.
Respondent No:2
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 08, 2024 15:08:46 pm
Last Seen:Apr 08, 2024 21:58:42 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
I visit/work in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Strongly agree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
The escrow that ensures compliance and the large replacement trees.
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
It’s not restrictive enough.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
Yes
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
Yes
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential grading permits
2. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
3. Residential lot division applications
4. Any residential tree removal
5. Residential demolition permits
6. Residential new home permits
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
Higher escrow fees.
Respondent No:3
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 08, 2024 16:44:35 pm
Last Seen:Apr 19, 2024 03:16:06 am
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Strongly agree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
It helps the City maintain/protect trees from developers and residents who would rather pay fines than maintain critical trees.
We simply cannot allow the de-greening of Edina. This ordinance helps the City deliver on our Climate Action Plan
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
nothing
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
Yes
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
Yes
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Any residential tree removal
2. Residential demolition permits
3. Residential lot division applications
4. Residential new home permits
5. Residential grading permits
6. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
Eliminate lot scrapes from teardowns. Limit the size of the replacement homes---far too often you see modest homes
bulldozed, lots scraped and MASSIVE homes go up
Respondent No:4
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 08, 2024 19:39:12 pm
Last Seen:Apr 09, 2024 02:27:54 am
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Strongly agree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
It protects a neighborhood-character-defining and climate-change fighting resource that really is communal, even if located
on private property.
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
Calculations seem a bit obtuse to me, but perhaps this is the best way to manage it.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
Yes
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential demolition permits
2. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
3. Residential grading permits
4. Any residential tree removal
5. Residential lot division applications
6. Residential new home permits
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
Fee to purchase equivalent trees to be planted on city park land or in other preservable public space.
Respondent No:5
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 09, 2024 12:09:46 pm
Last Seen:Apr 09, 2024 18:53:26 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
I build in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Strongly agree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
it doesn’t cost anything if you aren’t removing trees.
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
If one wants to remove trees, it can be done before you build/before you apply for a permit, or after your building project is
done. There does not seem to be any treeprotection unless one pulls a permit for building. That’s a major hole.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
Yes
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
Yes
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential grading permits
2. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
3. Residential new home permits
4. Residential lot division applications
5. Residential demolition permits
6. Any residential tree removal
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
Disregard my yes answers for questions 7 and 8. My answer is actually “I don’t know” for the 2 yes/no questions. I don’t
understand the question or how to figure it out. I also had a lot of trouble doing the tree protection worksheet only to discover
there was no cost because I was not removing any trees during my garage addition.
Respondent No:6
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 09, 2024 12:12:05 pm
Last Seen:Apr 09, 2024 18:52:02 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply None of the above
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Strongly agree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
The levels are high enough to encourage saving trees instead of removal. It is always preferable to save large mature trees.
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
The table is confusing. I would eliminate the table and just use the narrative. I don't understand what acreage has to do with
it. Make it simple or compliance will be hard. I have no idea what the table questions below are even asking.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
2. Any residential tree removal
3. Residential grading permits
4. Residential demolition permits
5. Residential lot division applications
6. Residential new home permits
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
There is no better option for tree preservation.
Respondent No:7
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 10, 2024 09:23:26 am
Last Seen:Apr 22, 2024 22:04:09 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Strongly agree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
There are a lot of tear downs in our neighborhood. Protecting trees is usually the last thing on a builder's list. The ordinance
ensures that there is consideration of tree protection early on which benefits both the neighborhood and the homeowner. It's
important to remember that you can't really replace a Legacy/Heritage tree - it will take decades for replacement trees to
truly replace mature trees. We already lose many trees to disease, storm damage, and changes in ground water level. I
appreciate the city's work to make sure we have a mix of age class, trees that truly provide shade, and a beautiful tree
canopy in all parts of our community. I strongly believe this benefits all property values in the city.
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
I have heard that some builders/developers are viewing the penalties for noncompliance as just a cost of doing business.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
Yes
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
Yes
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Any residential tree removal
2. Residential grading permits
3. Residential new home permits
4. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
5. Residential lot division applications
6. Residential demolition permits
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
Really, the city's lot coverage rules and set back rules are part of the problem. So many residential lots are incredibly
crowded and the allowable footprint for homes barely leaves room for mature trees. But if builders are opposed to stricter
rules on footprints, they should be more supportive of the city's very reasonable efforts to protect mature trees in our
established neighborhoods. A final note - I answered yes to the questions about tree requirements by acreage but I think the
questions are confusing. If anything the replacement requirements could be more strict but that did not appear to be an
option. These questions are confusing and I would question whether average citizens fully understood them.
Respondent No:8
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 10, 2024 13:11:48 pm
Last Seen:Apr 10, 2024 19:22:11 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Moderately agree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
The ordinance wishes to preserve and protect Edina’s tree canopy, and give options to homeowners and developers to do
so. Developers with sustainable practices will work with nature not toward it. If the city presume itself as a green and
sustainable one, it should only make minor changes on two things: 1) the financial guarantee by allowing a letter of credit,
and 2) by reducing the release of financial guarantee two years after the issuance of certificate of occupancy. Any other
change should be no negotiable.
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
There is not amount of money that can cover the environmental services of a tree. The ordinance should be much more
strict
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential grading permits
2. Residential lot division applications
3. Any residential tree removal
4. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
5. Residential demolition permits
6. Residential new home permits
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
City should be more strict in allowing redevelopment of lots in Edina. Edina demolish 14% of the houses being sold, while in
Bloomington and Minneapolis that percentage is below 1%. By having that high percentage of demolition we are making
living in Edina much more expensive. If homeowners can pay high prices for housing then they can pay some extra dollars
to save the trees. This modification of the ordinance should be no negotiable.
Respondent No:9
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 11, 2024 07:51:06 am
Last Seen:Apr 11, 2024 14:40:23 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Strongly agree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
It is a sensible and fair way to preserve trees from development
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
Nothing
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
Yes
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
Yes
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Any residential tree removal
2. Residential grading permits
3. Residential new home permits
4. Residential lot division applications
5. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
6. Residential demolition permits
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
Educate residents on how to care for their trees. With heat and drought increasing this would be so helpful
Respondent No:10
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 11, 2024 08:04:19 am
Last Seen:Apr 11, 2024 14:55:29 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
I visit/work in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Strongly agree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
Helps curtail destruction of trees from construction projects
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
penalty for violating the ordinance is chump change for construction companies
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential grading permits
2. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
3. Residential lot division applications
4. Any residential tree removal
5. Residential demolition permits
6. Residential new home permits
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
Not informed enough to weigh in
Respondent No:11
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 11, 2024 09:16:10 am
Last Seen:Apr 11, 2024 15:58:47 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Strongly agree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
Trees greatly help with the fight against global warming. Urban areas are usually hotter also than rural areas. Trees also
help with beautification of cities and upholding property values. For these reasons I am pleased Edina has this ordinance in
it's current form.
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
Not sure
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
Yes
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
Yes
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Any residential tree removal
2. Residential lot division applications
3. Residential grading permits
4. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
5. Residential new home permits
6. Residential demolition permits
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
not sure
Respondent No:12
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 11, 2024 11:19:01 am
Last Seen:Apr 11, 2024 18:11:27 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Strongly agree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
Keeping the legacy and air cleaning aspects of healthy trees
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
Some people balk when being told what to do. Too bad.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
2. Residential new home permits
3. Residential grading permits
4. Residential lot division applications
5. Any residential tree removal
6. Residential demolition permits
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
Assessments for both tree removal to property owner, and road destruction to builder.
Respondent No:13
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 11, 2024 14:00:01 pm
Last Seen:Apr 11, 2024 20:57:12 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Moderatley agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Moderately agree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
I like how it incentivizes builders to preserve trees.
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
It’s super expensive and can deter people from building and renovating.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
Yes
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential new home permits
2. Residential demolition permits
3. Residential grading permits
4. Residential lot division applications
5. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
6. Any residential tree removal
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
Help with building tree houses for families.
Respondent No:14
Login:Admin
Responded At:Apr 11, 2024 18:25:22 pm
Last Seen:Apr 12, 2024 01:16:11 am
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Strongly agree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
Protecting our tree canopy is absolutely essential and in the best interests of our entire community. In addition, caving to real
estate developers who naturally find it an inconvenience would be yet another failure by the city to make meaningful
progress on a core tenant of our Climate Action Plan.
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
No complaints with the tree ordinance.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
Yes
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Any residential tree removal
2. Residential lot division applications
3. Residential grading permits
4. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
5. Residential demolition permits
6. Residential new home permits
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
The moment of permitting for building on residential property is the only opportunity for the city to influence the protection of
our tree canopy. Outside of these building windows, residents are able to do whatever they want on private property. This is
an opportunity for the city to lead on this critical goal for the city. It is critical we don't give in to businesses yet again. We
seem to continually "lose" these battles with council siding with businesses despite the overwhelming evidence of a climate
crisis.
Respondent No:15
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 11, 2024 20:57:12 pm
Last Seen:Apr 11, 2024 14:48:01 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Strongly agree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
It trys to preserve trees
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
It can be difficult to implement
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential demolition permits
2. Residential grading permits
3. Any residential tree removal
4. Residential new home permits
5. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
6. Residential lot division applications
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
Sorry, no comments
Respondent No:16
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 12, 2024 10:00:32 am
Last Seen:Apr 12, 2024 16:54:58 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Moderately agree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
Preservation of nature and environment.
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
It’s only limited to construction. Too many lost oaks due to trimming outside of pruning season.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
Yes
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
Yes
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential demolition permits
2. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
3. Residential grading permits
4. Any residential tree removal
5. Residential new home permits
6. Residential lot division applications
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
Require a permit for trimming in order to stop flu by night companies to damage healthy trees, especially oaks.
Respondent No:17
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 12, 2024 10:16:39 am
Last Seen:Apr 12, 2024 17:04:18 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Moderatley agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Moderately agree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
I agree that A healthy canopy is important.
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
I think that the city should focus its attention on trees in parks and public rights of way, not on private property. Despite the
amount of redevelopment in Erina, I do not think that the amount of tree loss justifies this restriction on private property
owners’ right to manage and landscape their property. In addition, this perpetuates the problem of overly expensive housing
in Edina.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Any residential tree removal
2. Residential lot division applications
3. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
4. Residential grading permits
5. Residential new home permits
6. Residential demolition permits
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
The city should be spending its time and money on tree preservation on public property.
Respondent No:18
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 12, 2024 10:50:53 am
Last Seen:Apr 12, 2024 17:43:52 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Strongly agree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
Developments become less dense with more green space.
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
Cost to developers
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential lot division applications
2. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
3. Residential new home permits
4. Residential grading permits
5. Residential demolition permits
6. Any residential tree removal
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
Monitoring to insure replaced tree are maintained.
Respondent No:19
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 12, 2024 14:03:42 pm
Last Seen:Apr 12, 2024 20:54:08 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Moderately agree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
Trees removed due to major construction projects (home tear down/reconstruction, commercial construction) need to be
replaced.
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
Requiring replacement for smaller home construction - garage, shed, etc.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
Yes
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
Yes
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
2. Any residential tree removal
3. Residential lot division applications
4. Residential grading permits
5. Residential new home permits
6. Residential demolition permits
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
No input.
Respondent No:20
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 12, 2024 14:07:57 pm
Last Seen:Apr 12, 2024 21:00:52 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Moderatley agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Moderately agree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
Requirement to preserve Heritage Trees.
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
Random nature of cutting down trees.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Any residential tree removal
2. Residential new home permits
3. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
4. Residential demolition permits
5. Residential grading permits
6. Residential lot division applications
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
Treating
Respondent No:21
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 12, 2024 14:19:21 pm
Last Seen:Apr 12, 2024 21:04:00 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
I build in Edina
I visit/work in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Moderately disagree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Strongly disagree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
It was a nice idea
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
The replacement expectations are unrealistic bordering on nonsensical. There are many real-life situations that would
involve needing to plant a veritable forrest on a 1/4 acre lot to replace tree dbh. It is also incredibly short sighted to not
account for tree growth over time. In many cases, the density at which trees would have to be planted is actually
unsustainable and would not allow replacement trees to thrive. Again, it is a good idea but the extremism in replacement
ratio makes it untenable as written.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
Yes
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
Yes
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential new home permits
2. Residential demolition permits
3. Residential grading permits
4. Residential lot division applications
5. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
6. Any residential tree removal
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
Having a reasonable replacement ratio and realizing that house construction is one of Edina’s strengths, not something to be
feared. Every house was once a new build and every heritage tree was once 2” dbh.
Respondent No:22
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 12, 2024 14:33:04 pm
Last Seen:Apr 12, 2024 21:18:13 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Moderately disagree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
Clearly defined policies and procedures
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
I think that the current ordinance has grossly inadequate penalties for failure to perform according to the requirements of the
ordinance. I think that the fines should be increased at least tenfold. Also, there appears to be inadequate, surveillance, and
enforcement of infractions.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
Yes
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential grading permits
2. Residential lot division applications
3. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
4. Residential new home permits
5. Any residential tree removal
6. Residential demolition permits
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
The city could significantly increase the fines for failure to live up to the requirements of the ordinance, and could increase
surveillance of compliance with the conditions of the permit. I live on Lochloy Drive, where we have had two recent home
demolition and new house construction projects.Heritage trees have been damaged and destroyed, and numerous trees’
root systems from the neighbors’ properties have been severely damaged during these projects. It is unclear whether the
builder or homeowner has faced any consequences for the damage they have caused.
Respondent No:23
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 12, 2024 14:56:00 pm
Last Seen:Apr 12, 2024 21:50:27 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Moderately agree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
recognizing how incredibly mature established trees and the canopy of shade and heat protection these trees provide.
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
I don't know
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential new home permits
2. Residential grading permits
3. Any residential tree removal
4. Residential demolition permits
5. Residential lot division applications
6. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
I don't know
Respondent No:24
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 12, 2024 15:24:55 pm
Last Seen:Apr 12, 2024 22:20:36 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Strongly agree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
Canopy protection
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
Nothing
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
Yes
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Any residential tree removal
2. Residential grading permits
3. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
4. Residential new home permits
5. Residential lot division applications
6. Residential demolition permits
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
Unsure. Perhaps find a way to incentivize the planting of small trees.
Respondent No:25
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 12, 2024 16:44:06 pm
Last Seen:Apr 12, 2024 23:33:15 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
I visit/work in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly disagree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Strongly disagree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
I feel you are overstepping again. You allow perfectly good houses to be torn down and monsters to be built. You then have
an ordinance that is very hard on homeowners when builders always get a work around. and by this I mean apt, condo
builders that seem to have $$$ and that seems to be how there is always a work around for them. You decide which trees
you like and which you don't. If you can't replant the number of trees there is an option to plant elsewhere. If you don't keep
them alive (impossible if you plant off your property) for 3 years then you need to pay the city and loose the escrow. The
escrow is also way to expensive for most homeowners, not the large builders with deep pockets. A number of years ago we
tried to save a large tree on our property on Kellogg avenue so applied for a variance for our addition so we could save the
tree. Back then you were only approving the addition with a huge driveway that would kill the tree. We finally won after a lot
of work on our part. Today you want the opposite. This city has really lost focus on it's residents.
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
Everything above and then some.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
Yes
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Any residential tree removal
2. Residential grading permits
3. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
4. Residential new home permits
5. Residential demolition permits
6. Residential lot division applications
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
Let homeowners do what they wish by approval WITHOUT the ridiculous fees. Make builders who are building all these
awful apartments and condos pay these fees. It would keep them away!!!! Yes, I do NOT like all this multi housing in our
wonderful family neighborhoods. It brings in riff rar and that is obvious from the huge increase in crime in our beautiful city.
Yes, I did just say that. Also, awful interesting that this is a survey and we need to SIGN IN??? Is this so you can put a mark
next to those of us that don't agree with all these people making all these terrible decisions for our city?
Respondent No:26
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 12, 2024 18:49:18 pm
Last Seen:Apr 13, 2024 01:40:14 am
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Moderately agree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
It exists! It's about time. The Pamela Park neighborhood has been decimated by tree removal. Over a year ago, a concerned
resident brought this to the city council's attention with careful documentation and research. The mayor's response was
"thank you". Meanwhile, I live next door to a ridiculous teardown that took out mature trees. It's about time you started to
take action. When the teardown next door to me was occoring,, including the tree removal, I called "arborist" Luther
Overholst with concern. He couldn't have cared less.
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
It doesn't go far enough. It is about time Edina start to show a little consideration for neighbors when allowing greedy
developers to tear down our mature neighborhoods and replace them with ugly monsters that encroach on our privacy and
remove our trees. I don't know why Edina has an environmental council when you've allowed the tree decimation to go on
for so long.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential grading permits
2. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
3. Residential lot division applications
4. Residential new home permits
5. Residential demolition permits
6. Any residential tree removal
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
forbid tree removal...period. When tearing down a house and impacting trees, MANDATE THE NEIGHBORDING
NEIGHBORS to approve or deny the removal of any tree. it's time to take radical action against the decimation of trees in
this city. No action will go far enough. I feel very strongly about this and am ashamed of the way Edina is looking. Shameful
greed without any consideration for long time tenants of this city.
Respondent No:27
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 12, 2024 20:17:05 pm
Last Seen:Apr 13, 2024 03:06:55 am
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
I visit/work in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Strongly agree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
It help to to protect mature trees
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
I don’t think i goes far enough to protect existing trees
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Any residential tree removal
2. Residential demolition permits
3. Residential grading permits
4. Residential new home permits
5. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
6. Residential lot division applications
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
Require trees of a certain size and distance from new construction or demolition for be preserved
Respondent No:28
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 12, 2024 23:39:11 pm
Last Seen:Apr 13, 2024 05:19:31 am
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Moderately agree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
Edina is trying to preserve and protect our trees for all the reasons stated in the ordinance.
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
It does not address the impact that the building will have on the neighbor’s trees. A mature heritage tree just over the lot line
from construction can be destroyed with this plan, all at the neighbors expense and loss of beauty. —Also does this plan
address the city’s desire to maintain living streets - keeping trees in the front of properties? - Why does this plan require
replacement of an evergreen with an evergreen? — protecting the roots of existing trees during construction is very
important. This does not seem to leave enough space around trees that are not being removed. And in my neighborhood it
seems that no one is enforcing these protected zones. —my answers to question 9 are not to be tallied. The preposition
doesn’t make sense but I can’t submit this survey without answering.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Any residential tree removal
2. Residential grading permits
3. Residential new home permits
4. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
5. Residential lot division applications
6. Residential demolition permits
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
The fines for noncompliance seem very small compared to the impact of removing a mature tree. Consider calculating a
carbon cost for removing a tree.
Respondent No:29
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 13, 2024 18:58:32 pm
Last Seen:Apr 14, 2024 01:46:29 am
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Moderatley agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Strongly disagree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
That it provides motivation to preserve trees, though the previous ordinance also did that.
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
It is an unreasonable burden on developers and future home owners who will have to bear the burden of these escrow fees.
It is also unrealistic to assume an inch for inch (or 75%) replacement will be feasible on even the most generous lots in
Edina. Replacing a single 28” tree would require at least 3, but more likely 4 trees to comply without paying escrow. This
appears to be a simple fee collection scheme to force builders, developers, and homeowners pay for a department’s budget,
rather than actually solving a tree problem.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential new home permits
2. Residential demolition permits
3. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
4. Residential grading permits
5. Any residential tree removal
6. Residential lot division applications
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
The city should go back to the previous ordinance that allows for tree removal, and perhaps make replacement requirements
more robust. For example, require the first tree to be larger dbh or taller, or provide other incentives to homeowners to plant
additional trees. Trees are important, but so is the future development of our neighborhoods.
Respondent No:30
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 14, 2024 09:40:35 am
Last Seen:Apr 14, 2024 16:34:43 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Strongly agree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
Slowing down the planning process for a project to force thoughtfulness into the property with the goal of maintaining a
healthy ecosystem in the city
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
I would like it to be tougher - but realize that there are individual property rights and that is very important to protect as well
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
2. Residential demolition permits
3. Residential new home permits
4. Any residential tree removal
5. Residential grading permits
6. Residential lot division applications
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
Unsure
Respondent No:31
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 14, 2024 10:48:22 am
Last Seen:Apr 14, 2024 17:38:23 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Strongly agree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
Very understandable.
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
Nothing.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential grading permits
2. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
3. Residential new home permits
4. Residential demolition permits
5. Residential lot division applications
6. Any residential tree removal
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
I have no other options to suggest.
Respondent No:32
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 15, 2024 10:19:42 am
Last Seen:Apr 15, 2024 16:53:51 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Moderately disagree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
The intention of protecting heritage trees and the emphasis on maintaining/expanding the overall canopy in Edina for
purposes of clean water, air, etc.
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
This ordinance is too weak. It allows the builder/owner to replace old growth trees with much smaller young trees that will
take decades to reach a similar size and to produce equivalent environmental and aesthetic benefits outlined in the purpose.
The near term loss is too substantial. Also, the associated fee is almost immaterial given that the builder/developer can
simply fold it into a much larger purchase price or financing.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
2. Residential demolition permits
3. Residential grading permits
4. Residential new home permits
5. Residential lot division applications
6. Any residential tree removal
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
The policy needs to create a much higher threshold in order to drive the desired preservation, including 1) stronger
requirements for removing protected and heritage trees and 2) much higher fees in doing so or failing to meet requirements.
Consideration should be given to homeowner tax credits for tree preservation on new developments. Also, Edina needs to
change the residential structure dimension allowance to discourage old growth tree removal.
Respondent No:33
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 15, 2024 13:14:09 pm
Last Seen:Apr 15, 2024 20:03:18 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Strongly agree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
All of our trees are stressed from drought, from disease, from insect infestation. We need to do all we can to protect what we
have for everyone to enjoy ESPECIALLY the climate
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
I don't like to "make" anyone do anything, I would like for them to want to do the right thing.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Any residential tree removal
2. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
3. Residential demolition permits
4. Residential new home permits
5. Residential grading permits
6. Residential lot division applications
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
This is a design issue and the ordinance makes one criteria govern. That isn't the way to achieve quality if it sacrifices water
quality or site drainage or visibility at intersections or aesthetic harmony. A serious review by qualified design professionals
may lead to better, more wholistic outcomes.
Respondent No:34
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 15, 2024 13:14:24 pm
Last Seen:Apr 15, 2024 19:54:35 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Strongly disagree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
The tree ordiance provides considerations of tree preservations on already developed lots. Unfortunately, it does not provide
reasonable standards and limitations for fully wooded lots.
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
This ordinance does not account for fully wooded lots previously zoned for residential building. Our escrow balance is nearly
20% of the city's total escrow holdings. This is an excessive burden for a single home owner when the city zoned the lot for
residential building with already significant tree protections mandated in the zoning.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential new home permits
2. Residential grading permits
3. Any residential tree removal
4. Residential lot division applications
5. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
6. Residential demolition permits
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
Question 9 should be rewritten for clarity. The city needs to cap the total amount held in escrow if a wooded lot has
previously been zoned for residential building. Anything in excess of the average amount held by the city is excessive and
undue burden. Variances to zoning ordinances necessarily affect preservation ordinances. Those variances given to
businesses and corporations should be afforded to residential building as well. Maintaining a tree currently standing does
not necessarily mean that you are preserving beauty.
Respondent No:35
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 16, 2024 04:24:38 am
Last Seen:Apr 21, 2024 20:45:38 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Moderatley agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Moderately disagree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
I like the idea of preserving trees when possible.
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
I think the cost to preserve trees during a construction project could limit the ability of construction. For instance, we have a
silver maple which isn’t on the list of heritage trees but if it was we would not be able to compete our project because it is
huge, in the way and there would be no way that we even find a tree that size to replace it, even if we could afford it. What
happens if you buy a really expensive tree and it dies, then you have to pay to replace it again? This project really needs a
feasibility study. In like preserving trees, however make it realistic
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Any residential tree removal
2. Residential grading permits
3. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
4. Residential lot division applications
5. Residential new home permits
6. Residential demolition permits
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
Having an option to speak with an arborist to develop a site specific plan. Having to pull multiple permits for a project and
pay escrow is over the top.
Respondent No:36
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 16, 2024 14:01:31 pm
Last Seen:Apr 16, 2024 20:54:45 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
I build in Edina
I visit/work in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Moderately disagree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
I like the requirement to document existing trees before a project commences.
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
The cash escrow requirement is excessive. The previous tree ordinance was sufficient where it required replacement one to
one with 3" trees of similar type.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
2. Residential grading permits
3. Residential lot division applications
4. Residential demolition permits
5. Residential new home permits
6. Any residential tree removal
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
Give extra credit if a developer or homeowner spades in a larger tree than required.
Respondent No:37
Login:Admin
Responded At:Apr 17, 2024 12:06:34 pm
Last Seen:Apr 19, 2024 18:27:11 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Strongly agree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
I like the entire Ordinance as is. The best parts are the Financial Guarantee section, and the specificity around how to
replace protected or heritage trees that are removed.
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
I have no critiques for the Ordinance. Note to staff - this survey is poorly designed and unnecessarily confusing, making it
less accessible to ordinary residents who care about protecting our trees.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
2. Residential grading permits
3. Residential new home permits
4. Residential lot division applications
5. Residential demolition permits
6. Any residential tree removal
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
Uphold this Tree Protection Ordinance in its entirety.
Respondent No:38
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 17, 2024 12:29:59 pm
Last Seen:Apr 17, 2024 15:15:11 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Strongly agree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
Think it provides strong protections for heritage trees.
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
In some cases the costs could become prohibitive to comply with the ordinance. Do want to make sure our mature tree
canopy is protected, but we should also make sure families can build or add on to an existing house in an affordable way.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential lot division applications
2. Residential grading permits
3. Any residential tree removal
4. Residential new home permits
5. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
6. Residential demolition permits
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
Not necessarily during development, but if the city / a property owner is removing a tree because of EAB could the city
possibly offer a replacement tree at no charge?
Respondent No:39
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 19, 2024 09:49:49 am
Last Seen:Apr 19, 2024 16:42:44 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
I build in Edina
I visit/work in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Moderatley agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Moderately agree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
THat we are looking to preserve trees that are older and have value
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
It is WAY too restrictive. It stifles development and doesnt allow owners to use their land ans they would like. Replacement
should be a viable option. The ordinance is way too restrictive and aggressive.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
2. Residential lot division applications
3. Residential demolition permits
4. Residential new home permits
5. Residential grading permits
6. Any residential tree removal
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
Look boulevard trees. It is a bit disheartening, when the City takes out whole groves of trees in our parks with a goal of
replanting in other areas, but wont allow a home owner to do the same. Boulevard trees complete aesthetic. strategically
placed trees in yards do as well. Replacement should always be the first option rather than not allowing an owner to build or
remodel due to ordinance or age of a tree.
Respondent No:40
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 19, 2024 11:55:30 am
Last Seen:Apr 19, 2024 18:42:44 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I build in Edina
I visit/work in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Moderatley agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Moderately agree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
I like that appropriate trees have some protections.
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
3 year hold on half the tree escrow for builders. Will escrow be released with paid interest at fed interest rate?
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
2. Residential grading permits
3. Residential new home permits
4. Residential demolition permits
5. Any residential tree removal
6. Residential lot division applications
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
Release of full escrow to after trees planted. The 3 year hold is not appropriate or fair to any and all private parties.
Respondent No:41
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 19, 2024 12:13:21 pm
Last Seen:Apr 19, 2024 19:05:16 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
I don't know enough to provide a response
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
Promoting Trees
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
You don't take into consideration when you buy a heavily wooded lot, or the topography, holding people's money for so long,
no clear process to return it, no one at the city will talk to you about this, its the telephone game, when building on a hill and
a heavy wooded lot, you cant put that many tress back.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
2. Residential demolition permits
3. Residential lot division applications
4. Residential new home permits
5. Residential grading permits
6. Any residential tree removal
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
Just use common sense if the lot is on a hill and heavy wooded and three years is WAY to long to hole peoples money.
Respondent No:42
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 19, 2024 12:31:59 pm
Last Seen:Apr 19, 2024 19:21:30 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I build in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Moderatley agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Strongly disagree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
I like the idea of preserving/replacing trees
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
The escrow amounts are absurd.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential new home permits
2. Residential lot division applications
3. Residential demolition permits
4. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
5. Residential grading permits
6. Any residential tree removal
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
A smaller escrow . I like the idea or practice of preserving or replacing trees on construction sites. simply replace a tree with
a similar tree- If the heights of maturity don't match require more trees
Respondent No:43
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 19, 2024 12:36:14 pm
Last Seen:Apr 19, 2024 19:02:49 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I build in Edina
I visit/work in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Moderatley agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Moderately disagree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
It provides incentive to save as many trees as one can. To be fair, a one size fits all ordinance does not work. I've been
building and developing for 34 years and at this stage, I don't know of one person that looks at a property and decides that
they want to clear cut and devastate a property. On the contrary, most all people look at what they can do to protect what
they can and also, replant what they can to enhance the property value. It is unfortunate that during the approval process of
an apartment complex, or larger project, the city has and could provide relief of tree replacement to the developer when it is
"deemed" in the best interest of the city, but yet have a one size fits all ordinance for someone coming in for a simple build
permit. We all find value in trees but to not give relief for heavily wooded lots is not right. After all, the city is attaining
additional tax revenue by the addition of a new house. That in and of itself is a benefit.
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
It is too broad and doesn't give any leeway to those sites that are heavily wooded and creates overwhelming compensatory
damage to those homeowners that have a particular case of a heavily wooded lot. There should be some cap on overall and
to hold a persons funds for 3 years is over reaching. Think about everyone's needs within a family - these funds being held
could have a significant impact on their lives with no recourse.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential new home permits
2. Residential lot division applications
3. Residential demolition permits
4. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
5. Any residential tree removal
6. Residential grading permits
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
To be fair, your questions in the poll are skewed to put residents against one another. Specifically, questions 7 - 9 pit
interests against each other rather than being able to be flexible and have a few different criteria within each category. Why
would one be better than another or rank higher than another? You could have a new single family home built upon a heavily
wooded lot that could have a higher benefit to the city than a remodel / addition to a house but yet the heavily wooded lot
would be penalized greatly just because of its natural state. You could have a developer come in to develop or redevelop a
property into a new subdivision with 6 to 10 homes which would significantly contribute to the tax base but yet have
compensatory requirements on tree replacement. But conversely have an addition that takes down a couple trees which is
fairly easy to absorb financially and have a much less contribution to the city's tax base. I realize that the city is trying to do a
one size fits all ordinance to make it easy on itself but truly, there needs to be more alternatives to each category. Yes, that
would be more work on the city's part, but isn't that what a good policy should actually be? One size fits all doesn't work in
this case. I DID NOT ANSWER NUMBER 9 RIGHTFULLY - THE RANKING IS NOT A FAIR ASSESSMENT.
Respondent No:44
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 19, 2024 15:26:03 pm
Last Seen:Apr 19, 2024 22:02:10 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I build in Edina
I visit/work in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Moderatley agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Strongly disagree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
I agree with doing what we can to keep mature trees. But it has to make sense.
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
Basically everything. I understand tree preservation and and being sure that none impacted trees survive. But putting a 3
year escrow with unheard of dollar amounts on trees that are needed to come down to keep up with normal construction is
hurting builders, home owners, and I believe your city. Just passing down an escrow doesn't work. Prices will start to go
down on houses for sale that have heritage trees in the building zone and people will get stuck wiht their property or worse
neighbors that want the old rub down house demoed and built new may be stuck with a rental next door because there is
$80k of trees that are too close to build around.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
Yes
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
Yes
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Any residential tree removal
2. Residential new home permits
3. Residential lot division applications
4. Residential demolition permits
5. Residential grading permits
6. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
I feel it is not the cities right to say what someone can do with the trees on private property. If you want to protect trees,
protect the ones that are outside of the building pad.
Respondent No:45
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 21, 2024 11:07:43 am
Last Seen:Apr 21, 2024 17:21:07 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
I build in Edina
I visit/work in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Moderately agree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
the goal of preserving the tree canopy is a good one, but this ordinance has a lot of unintended consequences.
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
There are many things wrong with it. 1st, it seems like a land grab by the city. property values are now being affected by
how many trees they have on them. When a buyer is considering a property for improvement (remodel, improve landscape,
add play set for kids, tear down) they now have to consider a possible large financial barrier, which essentially reduces the
value of the seller's property. 2nd, the amount of the escrow is ridiculous, and that a large chunk of it is being held for 3
years. Trees are now being left in place to avoid the requirement which is causing a safety issue down the road if the root
system was affected. Does the city want this liability? 3rd, if a builder does a lot of work in Edina and plants more trees than
are required by an ordinance they should get a credit for the additional trees to use on future projects if desired. They and
their clients should not be discouraged from planting more than required. Incent them to plant more versus requiring them to
plant a minimum. 4th, if the goal is what the ordinance states, why not require a tree removal permit for all properties, not
just the ones looking for permits? Wouldn't that get the City to its goals much quicker? My guess is that would be seen by all
as a land grab.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
2. Residential lot division applications
3. Residential demolition permits
4. Residential grading permits
5. Residential new home permits
6. Any residential tree removal
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
1st, I don't think this survey should require answers (like #9 above) to move on with the survey. Disregard all my rankings
above except for the one that I have marked with a 6. I think the city should focus on incenting all residents to plant new
trees, not just residents seeking to improve their property. Work with charities and government grants and volunteers to
meet new trees per year in the city. We need new trees, but the current ordinance seems to have a lot of negatives and is
pitting people against each other.
Respondent No:46
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 21, 2024 18:35:46 pm
Last Seen:Apr 22, 2024 01:04:53 am
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Moderatley agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Moderately agree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
It's clearly stated which trees the city wishes to maintain.
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
The table in question 7 is unclear and I have no idea how or what to answer. The same situation is true with questions 8 and
9.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential lot division applications
2. Residential grading permits
3. Any residential tree removal
4. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
5. Residential demolition permits
6. Residential new home permits
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
Consider no only preserving trees, but also taking care of existing trees by trimming and maintaining them, rather than letting
trees just grow out of control by not maintaining them.
Respondent No:47
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 22, 2024 09:15:41 am
Last Seen:Apr 22, 2024 16:00:41 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I build in Edina
I visit/work in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Moderately disagree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Moderately disagree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
That transplant trees can be used.
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
The tree escrow amount is unfairly burdensome to property owners where there are "heritage trees" that were removed prior
to the new property owner that has purchased the land, and with the one-year look-back rule, this is unfair to the new land
owner.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
Yes
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
Yes
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential demolition permits
2. Residential new home permits
3. Residential lot division applications
4. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
5. Residential grading permits
6. Any residential tree removal
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
While I agree with some rules to preserve trees, there needs to be much less of a "big stick" to enforce that preservation,
and something that is not simply being used to generate more permit fees and escrow funds for the city, which puts and
unfair burden on home and land owners in the Edina.
Respondent No:48
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 22, 2024 10:34:35 am
Last Seen:Apr 22, 2024 17:10:38 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I build in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Strongly disagree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
It contemplates everyone's goal of preserving trees in an aging urban area.
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
No consideration given to the fact that Edina's developments of homes (with other close in MSP urban areas) are aging,
hence the tree population is as well. No context given to this and how this punitive ordnance is impacting the ability for
owners to update of replace the housing stock. The potential examples of this are to numerous to list here. Also no
consideration for Mother Natures impact of any tree.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
2. Residential new home permits
3. Residential demolition permits
4. Residential grading permits
5. Any residential tree removal
6. Residential lot division applications
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
Provide someone (not the forester and this is counter to his job description)to help with a common sense evaluation of
current real world conditions of existing trees by an unbiased professional that does NOT cost an owner thousands of
dollars.
Respondent No:49
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 22, 2024 10:51:49 am
Last Seen:Apr 22, 2024 17:11:49 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Moderately agree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
It's basic goal .
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
The very complicated method of determining the cost. The disproportionally high costs of the escrow vs what it really costs to
replace trees, and the 3 year length of the escrow following completion of the project (which really means the escrow is for
close to 4 years!)
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
2. Residential demolition permits
3. Any residential tree removal
4. Residential grading permits
5. Residential new home permits
6. Residential lot division applications
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
I believe it's in the best interest of the city to encourage residential redevelopment while preserving as many trees as
possible. As currently written, I believe the current tree protection ordinance and resulting costs to many projects do not
balance these goals, and (as city staff has told me) has resulted in canceling projects during design permitting. (hopefully
this is not an option the staff and council believe is good one). I believe some simplification of the requirements, and
reduction of costs and duration of the escrow would still meet the goals for preserving trees during residential redevelopment
projects.
Respondent No:50
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 22, 2024 11:30:30 am
Last Seen:Apr 22, 2024 18:09:39 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
I build in Edina
I visit/work in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Moderatley agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Strongly disagree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
There are a lot of issues with this ordinace. I don't think this ordinance is going to get to the intented outcome.
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
Section 4 and 5 - the 75% and 100% replacment is going to result in planting way to many trees that will all be weak as they
grow and fit for sunlight and will snap in half as soon as we get a strong storm. I would much rather see trees planted with
the room needed to grow with space to get to there full canopy. I don't think overplanting results in any kind of benefit in our
community and is very shortsighted. Section 4 and 5 d I think is unacceptable. We should have a clear guidline and not
leave a caviet for the city forester to have ultimate power in approval. Clear rules should be laid out.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
2. Residential demolition permits
3. Residential new home permits
4. Residential grading permits
5. Any residential tree removal
6. Residential lot division applications
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
I think this should be low. We are not a community that wants to clear cut lots. In my neighborhood we have had a number of
neighbors plant trees in the last number of years. I don't think this is an issue the city should be focusing on with punishing
regulations.
Respondent No:51
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 22, 2024 16:43:58 pm
Last Seen:Apr 22, 2024 23:30:44 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Moderately agree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
I appreciate the effort the City is making. What prevents someone from taking down trees after they have moved in?
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
What about new homes that don't have any existing trees? I see numerous new homes in my neighborhood that don't have
a tree, or often times, no landscaping of any kind. In item 7 and 8 below, the wording is not clear, so I can't answer. Our
future depends on trees, but builders typically don't care, so is there any way besides this ordinace to keep our CIty
forested?
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Any residential tree removal
2. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
3. Residential lot division applications
4. Residential grading permits
5. Residential new home permits
6. Residential demolition permits
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
Education / tax incentives / increase the fees for this ordinance (curious how people building multi-million dollar homes are
impacted by the money this ordinance requires of them? Do they care?) / Require all new or renovated homes to have at
least one major tree on their lot!
Respondent No:52
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 23, 2024 06:03:34 am
Last Seen:Apr 23, 2024 12:53:49 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Strongly agree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
That it will help maintain some degree of tree cover for our first-ring suburb - which I feel should be full of big, mature trees!
It's an important asset of our community and part of our character, not to mention an environmentally sound practice. I'm
struck when I pass into Minneapolis how many more trees they have. Good for them - we need to be as dedicated.
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
I feel home owners should also be required to replace a diseased tree that gets removed, or that the city should do it. I
speculate a lot of the ash now dying/gone were first planted by Edina anyway. The tree cover is important to maintaining our
character and is the right thing to do for the earth.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential lot division applications
2. Any residential tree removal
3. Residential grading permits
4. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
5. Residential new home permits
6. Residential demolition permits
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
Require larger trees be used for replanting. 3.5 inches in diameter is so small! Also, when a diseased tree gets removed,
offer to plant a new one.
Respondent No:53
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 23, 2024 07:23:37 am
Last Seen:Apr 23, 2024 14:13:18 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Strongly disagree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
Reinforces our shared value for preserving and expanding our city's trees
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
It seems to be based on an assumption that Edina residents have to be compelled to do the right thing with respect to tree
preservation and planting, or they will otherwise destroy our wealth of mature trees and fail to replace them. I've found Edina
residents to be incredibly well-educated and ecology minded, and this fundamentally negative assumption is offensive to
me..
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Any residential tree removal
2. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
3. Residential grading permits
4. Residential lot division applications
5. Residential new home permits
6. Residential demolition permits
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
The city should provide incentives and support for tree protection and replacement, instead of imposing onerous escrow and
replacement requirements that are tone-deaf to the wide range of needs and interests of our city's residents. Information on
types of and sources for indigenous trees, options for older or lower-income residents to receive free trees or help planting
them, partnerships with non-profits and local nurseries and landscapers, etc. -- all of which are creative and supportive
instead of punitive and compulsory -- would be in better keeping with the values and civic-minded spirit of Edina and its
residents. No one wants more to preserve the beauty of our city than those of use who own homes and live here.
Respondent No:54
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 23, 2024 07:43:06 am
Last Seen:Apr 23, 2024 14:34:10 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Strongly agree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
It incentivizes new builds and tear down properties to preserve or replace trees
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
It seems to allow builders to buy out of the trees by forfeiting the escrow funds. And I think it should apply to all properties!
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Any residential tree removal
2. Residential grading permits
3. Residential lot division applications
4. Residential new home permits
5. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
6. Residential demolition permits
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
Require builders and contractors to work around existing trees and their roots
Respondent No:55
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 23, 2024 09:07:49 am
Last Seen:Apr 23, 2024 15:36:53 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Moderately agree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
Protection of the diversity & ages of trees....it's been heartbreaking to see healthy trees torn down for me ew housing
builds & little trees planted but having to be replanted every spring because they don't survive.
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
I may have missed it....we had a 100+ year old silver maple, we had expensive arborists out sometimes 4x a year. And still
lost huge limbs. It was heartbreaking to remove that tree, we wanted to keep it but it could've been a safety hazard for
pedestrians/drivers as arborist said silver maples are known to just lose limbs. So just want to make sure the ordinance
protects old "healthy" trees. Would also love to see a push for more variety - especially coniferous variety. As it's so bare
year round & it helps with wind break & for animals to have shelter in coniferous trees.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
Yes
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
Yes
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential lot division applications
2. Residential grading permits
3. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
4. Any residential tree removal
5. Residential new home permits
6. Residential demolition permits
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
Require bee friendly lawns & diversity of coniferous & deciduous trees. Apply a penalty for new builds who take
down healthy trees or require new builds to incorporate healthy heritage trees.
Respondent No:56
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 23, 2024 13:34:05 pm
Last Seen:Apr 23, 2024 20:18:55 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
I build in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Moderatley agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Moderately agree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
The INTENT is good -- inspire (and force) trees to be replaced when they are removed due to construction
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
The ESCROW system is terribly designed. Either have homeowners replace the trees removed, OR have them escrow a
price per foot removed. Taking Edina residence money for three years with zero interest is a terrible demonstration of
partnership. This HAS to change.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
2. Any residential tree removal
3. Residential grading permits
4. Residential lot division applications
5. Residential demolition permits
6. Residential new home permits
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
Simply require residents to replace a percentage of removed trees. The concept of having homeowners spend thousands or
tens of thousands to replace trees...AND then having homeowners spend thousands or tens of thousands to escrow interest
free is wrong and excessive.
Respondent No:57
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 23, 2024 16:31:02 pm
Last Seen:Apr 23, 2024 23:10:53 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I build in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Moderately disagree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
I don't know enough to provide a response
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
Nothing
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
The builder or resident is required to escrow for 36 months. That's a fee, not an escrow. That's a longer period than some of
the sections of the state statutory warranties for new houses. Warrantying something that is fully dependent on nature and
the environment, and is completely out of the control of the warrantor, is asinine.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential demolition permits
2. Residential new home permits
3. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
4. Residential lot division applications
5. Residential grading permits
6. Any residential tree removal
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
You're not going to preserve all trees. Planting enough replacement trees will be impossible on small lots. Make it simple:
charge $x,xxx.xx per permit, buy and plant trees in a park or anywhere there's room in the city.
Respondent No:58
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 24, 2024 10:35:41 am
Last Seen:Apr 24, 2024 17:22:51 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Moderatley agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Strongly disagree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
I think the intention to increase tree canopy coverage is good.
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
The process to determine the health of a tree on the front end and upon release of the escrow are inconsistent. The lack of
transparency around how the escrow funds are held at the city is wrong. What happens to the escrow funds that are not
released?
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential new home permits
2. Residential demolition permits
3. Any residential tree removal
4. Residential grading permits
5. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
6. Residential lot division applications
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
Collect fees to create a fund that other Edina residents could use to plant more trees on their own properties. Requiring
100% of the tree replacement to happen on the property where the new construction is occurring removes the vast majority
of residential properties in Edina from the goal of increasing the tree canopy.
Respondent No:59
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 25, 2024 13:38:35 pm
Last Seen:Apr 25, 2024 20:30:49 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Moderately agree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
I am glad we are making some attempt to keep the city from looking like a new housing development.
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
We still lose tall canopy trees which take years to replace, for more McMansions and less natural surface for water
drainage.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential grading permits
2. Any residential tree removal
3. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
4. Residential new home permits
5. Residential lot division applications
6. Residential demolition permits
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
Limit tear downs, lot raising and homes too big for the available lot.
Respondent No:60
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 25, 2024 21:41:34 pm
Last Seen:Apr 26, 2024 04:13:42 am
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
I build in Edina
I visit/work in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Moderatley agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Strongly disagree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
Many builders will clear all on site trees to make project easier, this ordinance makes developers think more about
preserving
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
The penalties are too extreme for replacements/escrow fees. There is no reasonable judgement on a healthy tree (if it is any
bit green is healthy). A homeowner/builder attempting to improve property value by building is penalized if improving
property when tree removal is necessary , but anyone choosing to remove tree for any other reason is not held liable. We
have preserved "heritage trees" before the new ordinance ($450 penalty vs, $20,000) to find that the new owner removes
them after building without penalty. (5929 Drew ave s.)
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Any residential tree removal
2. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
3. Residential demolition permits
4. Residential new home permits
5. Residential lot division applications
6. Residential grading permits
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
Revert to previous rules for reasonable necessary removals are needed. If a tree is 20' away from an existing or new
structure is removed, penalize to the fullest. Many trees that are being removed are unsafe/unhealthy for the existing
structures and should not be penalized just bacause a new structure is being built. The ordinance states the objective of
preserving healthy trees, we have had trees wlth root girdling considered to be protected because is still green. The
ordinance is irresponsible and not safe for any community.
Respondent No:61
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 26, 2024 18:02:32 pm
Last Seen:Apr 27, 2024 00:44:40 am
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Moderately agree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
The effort to maintain the tree canopy in the city.
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
UMN extensions recommends planting young trees. Your requirements are not in line with that. Young trees have a better
chance of thriving and establish themselves more easily than more mature trees.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential lot division applications
2. Residential grading permits
3. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
4. Any residential tree removal
5. Residential new home permits
6. Residential demolition permits
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
I have an additional question/comment. Why are silver maples excluded? They have been included on lists of trees that will
be more likely to survive in our changing climate.
Respondent No:62
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 26, 2024 18:40:55 pm
Last Seen:Apr 27, 2024 01:20:08 am
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Moderately agree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
Inclusion of Root zone protection.
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
The tables shown in question 7 and 8 are very confusing. I am a highly educated individual, I spent quite a while studying
these and reading the ordinance, and still I have no idea what these are trying to tell me.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
Unsure
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential demolition permits
2. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
3. Residential new home permits
4. Residential lot division applications
5. Residential grading permits
6. Any residential tree removal
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
I would increase fines/protections for heritage trees. Maybe assess by height? Some high canopy trees are effectively
irreplaceable.
Respondent No:63
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 27, 2024 07:04:37 am
Last Seen:Apr 27, 2024 14:00:03 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Strongly agree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
No more clear cut lots with a little twig tree when a home is leveled and rebuilt
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
Nothing
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
Yes
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
Yes
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential demolition permits
2. Any residential tree removal
3. Residential new home permits
4. Residential lot division applications
5. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
6. Residential grading permits
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
Ability to purchase trees and get them installed at affordable rates
Respondent No:64
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 28, 2024 09:15:50 am
Last Seen:Apr 28, 2024 16:08:15 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
I build in Edina
I visit/work in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Strongly disagree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
The ordinance in its current form does not work. I like the idea of protecting trees but it does has gone too far.
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
The three years and the cash escrow and the replacement amount.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
2. Residential demolition permits
3. Residential lot division applications
4. Residential new home permits
5. Any residential tree removal
6. Residential grading permits
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
Require an arborist sign off on the type of trees and where they should be planted and inspect after planted.
Respondent No:65
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 28, 2024 10:20:20 am
Last Seen:Apr 28, 2024 17:05:11 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Moderatley agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Strongly disagree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
Nothing
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
It is too expensive for single family homeowners. It may be ok for commercial developments. The ordinance is unnecessarily
complicated for single family homeowners. The money in escrow for single family homes is held too long. Also, it is unclear
if the funds are intermingled with other City funds.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
Yes
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
Yes
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
2. Residential demolition permits
3. Residential new home permits
4. Residential grading permits
5. Any residential tree removal
6. Residential lot division applications
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
How about a simple policy for single family homes? If you take a tree down during redevelopment or remodeling, you need
to replace it with another tree. Some homeowners are being charged excessive fees. I have no idea what you are asking in
question #9. I randomly completed it because I couldn’t submit my survey without completing it.
Respondent No:66
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 28, 2024 10:29:00 am
Last Seen:Apr 28, 2024 17:12:04 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Strongly agree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
I think the city is just placating current residents with these ordinances. The majority of new build sites violate these
protections and are not being punished.
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
The fact enforcement of the root protection area is not happening. Builders put the fencing around the roots and within a
month the fenced area is moved closer to the tree for construction equipment storage. Consequently, the tress that were
supposed to be protected are dying 2 to 4 years later.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
2. Residential grading permits
3. Any residential tree removal
4. Residential lot division applications
5. Residential demolition permits
6. Residential new home permits
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
If a builder violates the tree policy multiple times they should not be allowed to do business in the city since they have
violated the public’s trust.
Respondent No:67
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 28, 2024 10:57:49 am
Last Seen:Apr 28, 2024 17:47:27 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Strongly agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Strongly disagree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
It seems good on paper but enforcement is poor. I witnessed it, next door
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
Doesnt do the job intended. Next door they took down a healthy and beautiful 40 yp Blue Spruce, edina tree person came
out and gave approval. OUTRAGEOUS!
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential lot division applications
2. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
3. Residential demolition permits
4. Residential new home permits
5. Residential grading permits
6. Any residential tree removal
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
Conserve trees! Save trees, esp when they are healthy and over 5 yo DISREGARD #9, as it is a poorly stated question and
my answers will be only Random Guesses, ie., 123456. . Who wrote this survey?? Ugh
Respondent No:68
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 28, 2024 16:41:19 pm
Last Seen:Apr 28, 2024 23:25:34 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
I build in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Moderatley agree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
Strongly disagree
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
Realistically, the only item I like about the tree ordinance is that some form of trees should be added back if a tree is
removed.
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
The escrow is a huge impediment to building homes in Edina and it unfairly targets homebuilders. Additionally, city lots can
only sustain a certain number of trees. This ordinance needs to be significantly improved because it does not take into
account any kind of real life situations. It's based on a spreadsheet formula which is flawed. This ordinance does nothing to
encourage existing homeowners to add trees to their lots which I believe is the goal; increase canopy. This ordinance adds
thousands of dollars to homes and actually decreases the value of people's homes by making construction costs so
expensive. Instead of increasing the cost of home ownership, I would expect a city government to try and make home
ownership less expensive.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Any residential tree removal
2. Residential new home permits
3. Residential demolition permits
4. Residential lot division applications
5. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
6. Residential grading permits
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
Provide a tax break or reduced permitting costs. This ordinance drives up the cost of construction in Edina and reduces the
value of people trying to sell their homes for new re-development. The city has benefited tremendously from new homes
being built and now that same industry is under threat by this ordinance. As a homebuilder, I am now looking to other
communities to build as this ordinance and specifically the escrow and the 3-yr period makes building homes too
burdensome in the city.
Respondent No:69
Login:Registered
Responded At:Apr 29, 2024 06:04:51 am
Last Seen:Apr 29, 2024 12:54:08 pm
Q1.Choose all that apply I live in Edina
Q2.Do you feel preserving trees in residential
neighborhoods is important?
Moderately disagree
Q3.Have you read the updated Tree Protection
Ordinance? Tree Protection Ordinance 10-82
Yes
Q4.Please read through the replacement
requirements (section 4-5) of the Tree Protection
Ordinance here: Tree Protection Ordinance 10-
82. Once you have read them, do the
requirements outlined in the Tree Protection
Ordinance uphold the value of preserving
Edina's trees and neighborhood character?
I don't know enough to provide a response
Q5.What do you like most about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
The principal behind the ordinance appears to be in good faith.
Q6.What do you like least about the Tree Protection Ordinance?
People should be able to remove trees from their property whenever they feel like doing so, without city intervention. Some
trees such as large oaks can be a pain to deal with, such as massive amounts of acorns falling in vehicles causing damage
similar to hail damage, constant leaves and sticks requiring daily cleanup, the attraction of unwanted squirrels and other
pests.
Q7.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Protected
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q8.Please review the Tree Requirements by
Acreage table below. Do the replacement
requirements justify the removal of Heritage
Trees during redevelopment?
No
Q9.Provide ranking to the following types of
projects based upon the level of tree
replacement policy you feel a project should
have (1 being the lowest, 6 being the highest).
1. Residential addition permits including deck, garage, retaining
walls and pools
2. Residential demolition permits
3. Residential new home permits
4. Any residential tree removal
5. Residential grading permits
6. Residential lot division applications
Q10.What are other options could the city use to preserve trees during residential redevelopment?
There are a lot of trees in Edina. I think the city is just fine.
EdinaMN.gov
Review of Ordinance 10-82
Tree Protection and Preservation
City Council Work Session
Tuesday May 7th, 2024
Outline
•Introductions
•History of the tree protection in Edina
•2015 Ordinance
•2021 Climate Action Plan
•2022 Commission Work Plan Initiative
•John Haugen -Vice Chair of Energy and Environment Commission
•Ordinance Details
•Application and Plan Review
•2023 look back
•Better Together Edina Feedback
•Discussion on Ordinance
December 16, 2014:
Ordinance 2014-25
First Reading
February 17, 2015:
Ordinance 2014-25
Second Reading and
Council Adoption
March 26th,
2015: ordinance
2014-25
Published
July 1, 2015-
Ordinance
2014-25
effective
April 16, 2019: Park
Maintenance Staff presented
to council the addition of
Emerald Ash Borer to be
included in the Shade Tree
Disease Ordinance
May 7, 2019: City Council adopted Emerald Ash
Borer into the Shade Tree
Disease Ordinance (2019-
09) and added Ash trees to
the list of exempt trees on
the Tree Protection
Ordinance 2014-25 (2019-
08)
December 2021
Climate Action
Plan Adopted
February 10, 2022- EEC
receives forestry update
with recommendation
to improve Tree Protection Ordinance
City Commissions: Energy &
Environment, Transportation,
and Planning commission all
review and approve
recommendation for
amendments
August 2022- EEC reports to
council recommended
amendments to Tree
Ordinance to become 10-82,
and Council has first read through
October 6,2022: City
Council has second read through and Approves adoption of Tree Protection
Ordinance 10-82
January 1, 2023: Tree
Protection
Ordinance is
effective
May 7, 2024: City
Council Work
Session September 7, 2022: City
Council receives amended
Ordinance 10-82 for first
Read through with
presentation by John
Haugen
April 8, 2024: Better
Together Edina Site
for community input
is opened to public
2015 Ordinance 2014-15
•Ordinance Adoption: February 15, 2015
•Ordinance Effective Date: July 1, 2015
•Amended May 7, 2019, to include Ash trees on the list of exempt trees
2021 Climate Action Plan Initiatives
•Revising the 2015 tree ordinance
•Implementing NEXTGEN Trees program: over 1,000 trees planted since 2022
•Annual Arbor Day Events
•2022: Rosland planted 250 trees
•2023: Rosland planted 50 trees,
•2024: Centennial Lakes park planted 106 trees
•Edina Tree Sale
•2023: 250 Trees sold
•2024: 600 trees in spring & 400 trees in fall
Commission Work Plan
•Climate Action Plan 2021
•Tree Cover Goals GS 1: Increase tree cover
from 35.9% to 39.5% by 2030, and;
and to 43% by 2040
•Concern of loss of neighborhood tree canopy and
character
•GS1-5 Update current tree preservation ordinance
requirements to protect tree root systems and large
legacy trees during construction. Explore options for
increases in legacy tree protection and increases in
performance-based requirements of tree planting
within parking lots.
EEC Ordinance Development and Review
•There is a single goal of these revisions:
to maintain a canopy of healthy,
mature trees
•Consulted and influenced by Tree Ordinance
in:
•Wayzata
•St. Louis Park
•Minnetonka,
•District of Columbia
•Cross Commissions Work Plan Initiatives
•Planning Commission:
•Transportation Commission
Consulted Group Result of Collaboration
City staff, including City Manager,
Forester, Sustainability,
Community Development
Director, Parks Director,
Building Official, City Engineer,
Transportation Planner, City
Attorney/outside Counsel
•Support for all
recommended changes
related to Chapter 10
proposed amendments
•Support for most
recommended changes
related to Chapter 24
proposed amendments.
Members of the Planning
Commission
•Advisory Communication in
support
Members of the Transportation
Commission
•Advisory Communication in
support
•Verbiage related to
boulevard trees
Energy and Environment Commission
presentation to City Council
•First reading: 9/7/22 - Second reading: 10/6/22
•Limited Tree Protection in 2015 Ordinance
•Significant lack of tree canopy protection
•Accountability for tree protection:
•the prior $350 donation per removed tree provided recognition for donation
and not accountability for removed tree
•Lack of enforcement of current ordinance provisions:
•forestry division responsible for enforcement is understaffed
•Ordinance lack numerous provisions vs. SLP, Wayzata, Minnetonka:
•Surrounding cities had tree preservation based on the value of trees
removed
City Adoption: Ordinance 10-82
•Effective January 1, 2023
•Protected tree: deciduous tree is 5-inch dbh, coniferous tree is 15 feet in height
•Addition Heritage tree: deciduous tree at least 30-inch dbh or coniferous tree at least 30 feet in height
•Mitigation of tree removal:
•Protected tree: $300 per dbh/foot of 75% total protected tree removed
•Heritage Tree: $500 per dbh/foot of 100% total heritage tree removed
•Replacement must be 3.5” or 8’ for protected and 4.5” or 10’ for heritage trees
•No longer any exemptions for tree location from mitigation requirements
2015 Ordinance 2014-25 2023 Ordinance 10-82
Protected Tree Status •Deciduous tree at least 8”
dbh•Coniferous tree at least
20’ in height
•Deciduous tree at least 5”
dbh•Coniferous tree at least 15’
in height
Heritage Tree Status NA •Deciduous tree at least 30”
dbh
•Coniferous tree at least 30’
in height
Protected tree
Replacement
Replace 1:1 with similar like
tree
Replace 75% of total protected
dbh/height removed
Heritage Tree
Replacement
NA Replace 100% if total
dbh/height removed
Projects Impacted Demolition. Subdivisions,
primary or secondary
structures, garage, deck, pool,
additions
Grading, demolition.
Subdivisions, primary or
secondary structures, garage,
deck, pool, additions
Failure to replace $350 tax exempt donation to
the city to replant tree in a city
park
•Protected tree: $300 per
Dbh/height•Heritage tree: $500 per
Dbh/height
Exemptions to
mitigation to Replace
•Within 10’ of proposed
building, deck or patio
•Within 5’ of proposed
driveway•Within 10’ of roadway,
stormwater retention areas
and utilities
NA - exemptions were
removed
December 16, 2014:
Ordinance 2014-25
First Reading
February 17, 2015:
Ordinance 2014-25
Second Reading and
Council Adoption
March 26th,
2015: ordinance
2014-25
Published
July 1, 2015-
Ordinance
2014-25
effective
April 16, 2019: Park
Maintenance Staff presented
to council the addition of
Emerald Ash Borer to be
included in the Shade Tree
Disease Ordinance
May 7, 2019: City Council adopted Emerald Ash
Borer into the Shade Tree
Disease Ordinance (2019-
09) and added Ash trees to
the list of exempt trees on
the Tree Protection
Ordinance 2014-25 (2019-
08)
December 2021
Climate Action
Plan Adopted
February 10, 2022- EEC
receives forestry update
with recommendation
to improve Tree Protection Ordinance
City Commissions: Energy &
Environment, Transportation,
and Planning commission all
review and approve
recommendation for
amendments
August 2022- EEC reports to
council recommended
amendments to Tree
Ordinance to become 10-82,
and Council has first read through
October 6,2022: City
Council has second read through and Approves adoption of Tree Protection
Ordinance 10-82
January 1, 2023: Tree
Protection
Ordinance is
effective
May 7, 2024: City
Council Work
Session September 7, 2022: City
Council receives amended
Ordinance 10-82 for first
Read through with
presentation by John
Haugen
April 8, 2024: Better
Together Edina Site
for community input
is opened to public
10-82 Ordinance Details
Removed PROTECTED size X 75% = Replacement
Requirements X $300= Potential Fee
Removed HERITAGE size X 100% = Replacement
Requirements X $500= Potential Fee
Estimated Escrow Fee= PROTECTED Potential Fee +
HERITAGE Potential Fee
Total Escrow Owed= Estimated Escrow Fee X 110%
Escrow Schedule
When Fees
Total Tree Escrow Owed Once Permit is approved
by the City Forester
110% X tree replacement
value = Total Escrow
owed (B.3.f), (Ordinance
12a.)
50% Original Escrow –
Fees Released
Building Final Inspection -
Subject to City Forester
approval
Replacement failure fee
($300 protected and $500
heritage) X 110%
Remaining 50% of Escrow
–Fees Released or
Retained by City
36 months after CofO
date- Subject to City
Forester approval
Escrow retained by City if
landscape review does
not match original
Tree Permit Workflow Diagram
Permit application
Forestry division
plan review
Send back to applicant
for corrections
•Yes, applicant send back with corrections
•No-permit sent to approval
Forestry Division
approved Permit
with pending fees
Applicant pays
pending fees
Permit becomes
issued and project
can begin
Project ends
Applicant submits
escrow release
form
Forestry division
conducts Landscape
review
Replacement
requirements met
•Yes, 50% escrow released
•No, 50% escrow released
minus replacement fees
36 months after
Certificant of
Occupancy
Applicant submits
Final escrow
release form with
certified arborist
landscape review
Are trees healthy after 36
months
•Yes, remaining 50% escrow released
•No, remaining escrow retained by the
City.
Start
Finish
One Year Look Back
Trees Protected,
1457, 72%
Trees Removed,
569, 28%
2022 Trees Protected and Removed Trees
during Residential Development
Trees Protected Trees Removed
Trees Protected,
1957, 85%
Trees Removed,
356, 15%
2023 Trees Protected and Removed during
Residential Development
Trees Protected Trees Removed
Better Together Edina Feedback
Identified Factors for Discussion
•Discussion Question #1 – Does the City Council desire to distinguish permit applications differently for unbuilt lots versus
additions, remodels or rebuilds?
•DQ #2 – Does the City Council desire to modify the financial components of the ordinance, such as capping the escrow,
changing the DBH cost or review alternate forms of escrow?
•DQ #3 – Does the City Council desire to make any changes to the ordinance that exempts affordable housing or the valuation
of exempt permits?
•DQ #4 – Does the City Council wish to remove certain permit activities that require a tree plan as part of the application
process?
•DQ #5 – Does the City Council support the modification of the ordinance to include a provision to require a certified arborist
be part of the application process by the applicant?
•DQ #6 – Does the City Council wish to incorporate a variance process for the tree ordinance?
•DQ #7 – Does the City Council wish to address Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) differently in the tree ordinance?
•DQ #8 – Does the City Council wish to amend portions of the tree ordinance? What process would the council prefer if
updates are desired?