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If you’re a property owner in South Lake Tahoe and considering cutting down a tree on your land, it’s important to understand the regulations and guidelines surrounding tree removal. That’s why we’ll provide you with information about when a tree removal permit is needed, considerations for tree size, dealing with dead trees, substantial trimming, sensitive areas, as well as construction projects.
By familiarizing yourself with these guidelines, you can decide about tree removal while ensuring compliance with local regulations.
Creating Defensible Spaces
Defensible space refers to the area surrounding your property where vegetation is carefully managed to reduce the risk of fire spreading. It acts as a buffer zone between structures and potential sources of fuel, including trees and shrubs. Maintaining defensible space is of utmost importance for safeguarding your property and the community from the devastating effects of wildfires.
Creating defensible space around your property is essential for minimizing fire risks in South Lake Tahoe. Professional services such as tree removal and lot clearing can help you establish a safer defensible space that offers protection against wildfires.
When Do I Need a Tree Removal Permit?
Knowing when a tree removal permit is required is an important step before cutting down a tree on your property. Here are the key factors to consider:
Tree Size
In South Lake Tahoe, a tree removal permit is generally required for live trees with a diameter at breast height (DBH) exceeding 14 inches, unless your house is situated along the lakeshore. If your property is lakeside, you will need a permit for removing trees larger than 6 inches DBH between the house and the lake, or trees larger than 14 inches DBH that are not positioned between the house and the lake.
Dead Trees
In cases where a dead tree risk falling on a house, a permit is not typically required for its removal. However, it is advisable to consult with a TRPA forester if the dead tree is not near a house, as there might be a need to obtain a permit based on specific circumstances.
Substantial Trimming
When it comes to removing branches from the upper two-thirds of a tree’s height, a permit is generally necessary. However, there are exceptions to this rule:
- If a branch is within 10 feet of a chimney outlet, building, or deck.
- If a branch is rubbing or interfering with utility lines within your property boundary (consult your power company before removing branches near utility lines).
- If a branch is dead.
Sensitive Areas
Modifying live vegetation, including trees and shrubs, within Stream Environment Zones (SEZs) or the backshore of Lake Tahoe requires careful evaluation and review by the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA). These areas are considered ecologically sensitive, and any changes must be approached with caution and adherence to environmental regulations.
Construction Projects
If tree removal is part of a development project that has already obtained the necessary permits, a separate tree removal permit may not be required. However, it is vital to verify that the existing project permits adequately cover tree removal activities to ensure compliance with local regulations.
How to Determine DBH
DBH, or diameter at breast height, is a measurement used to determine a tree’s diameter. To measure DBH accurately, follow these steps:
- Measure the circumference of the tree at breast height, which is typically 4.5 feet above the ground on the uphill side of the tree.
- Divide the circumference by 3.14 (π) to calculate the diameter. For instance, if a tree has a circumference of 43.9 inches, its diameter would be approximately 14 inches.
Professional Help for Tree Removal in South Lake Tahoe
While this guide provides an overview, navigating the intricacies of tree removal in South Lake Tahoe can be complex. Consider seeking professional help from a qualified arborist or tree service like Tallac Tree Service. We offer expert tree removal, tree trimming, and lot clearing services, ensuring your project adheres to regulations and prioritizes the health of your property and the surrounding environment. Contact us today for a consultation!
