City Council:
AN ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING A
STANDARDIZED POLICY FOR TREE
PLANTING IN THE MUNICIPAL RIGHT-OF-WAY
Whereas, in a letter dated February 24, 2025, the Director of Sustainability and the Commissioner of the Department of Public Works requested legislation to establish a mandatory policy for tree planting within the municipal right-of-way, offering clear guidelines for developers to promote consistency and sustainability in urban forestry initiatives; and
Whereas, urban trees provide significant environmental and community benefits, including improving air quality, reducing urban heat, enhancing stormwater management, and increasing overall community well-being; and
Whereas, there is currently no standardized guide governing the planting, species selection, maintenance, or spacing requirements for trees planted in the municipal right-of-way by private developers; and
Whereas, the City of Mount Vernon seeks to ensure consistency and sustainability in urban forestry efforts by adopting a comprehensive Tree Planting Guide as municipal policy; and
Whereas, the Department of Public Works recommends the adoption of a mandatory policy that will regulate tree planting by developers within the municipal right-of-way to enhance tree survival rates, provide clear expectations, and improve environmental quality in public spaces; Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved That
The City of Mount Vernon, in City Council convened, does hereby ordain and enact:
Section 1. Purpose. The purpose of this ordinance is to provide comprehensive guidelines ensuring the proper planting, growth, and sustainability of trees within the municipal right-of-way, thereby promoting environmental health, enhancing aesthetic value, and ensuring public safety and accessibility.
Section 2. Tree Selection.
(a) Native Species Requirement:
* Trees planted within the municipal right-of-way must be native species suitable for urban environments. Approved sp...
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