§ 13.5-42. Tree topping.

It shall be unlawful as a normal practice for any person, firm, or city department to top any street tree, park tree, or other tree on public property unless otherwise permitted by the city in writing. Topping is defined as the severe cutting back of limbs to stubs larger than three (3) inches in diameter within the tree's corn to such a degree so as to remove the normal canopy and disfigure the tree. Trees severely damaged by storms or other causes, or certain trees under utility wires or other obstructions where other pruning practices are impractical may be exempted from this article at the determination of the city.

(Ord. No. 11249, § 10(G), 6-3-96)