Ellensburg, Washington Development News

Ellensburg Updates Urban Forestry Code and Management Plan

The city of Ellensburg is updating its urban forestry code and management plan, which includes a new tree ordinance, street tree standards, and an urban forest management plan. The project received a $272,500 grant from the DNR's community and urban forestry program. Key components include a city facility and park tree inventory, a tree ordinance update, street tree standards in public work development standards, an urban forest management plan, and public outreach and education materials. The existing tree ordinance, adopted in 1978, is being replaced with a new one that simplifies language, reorganizes sections, and aligns with current best practices. The updated ordinance introduces clear purpose and value statements, updated definitions, prohibited actions, tree protection during construction, and cost recovery for maintenance, removal, or hazard mitigation of privately maintained street trees. A new urban forestry reinvestment account will be established for funds from in-lieu fees to support tree planting and maintenance. The plan also includes new tree removal permit processes, administrative approvals for certain removals by the city arborist, and an in-lieu fee structure of $200 per diameter inch of tree removed, with a minimum of $1,200 for a 6-inch tree. Tree protection during construction will require plans created by a certified arborist for major developments. Extensive community engagement, including surveys and working groups, has informed the updates, with 547 survey responses received. The project aims to create a clear and modern framework for managing the city's urban forest, aligning with best practices and community goals.