(KRON) — The Sonoma County Board of Supervisors extended a moratorium on removing protected trees for another four months. Supervisors said the extension is needed while Permit Sonoma continues work on an updated Tree Protection Ordinance. Wednesday’s vote extends the moratorium until May 31.
“Trees and woodlands are essential elements of Sonoma County’s rural and urban lands,” said Supervisor David Rabbitt. “We need more time to get the Tree Protection Ordinance right. This moratorium will ensure that no protected trees are removed in the meantime.”
The moratorium prohibits the removal of 31 species of protected trees 6 inches in diameter or greater, with limited exceptions such as avoiding immediate danger.
The original Tree Protection Ordinance, adopted in 1989, is being updated to increase climate resiliency by preserving the county’s tree and forest resources. The policies will help the county achieve the objective of carbon neutrality by 2030 by maximizing carbon sequestration.
In developing the tree policy, Permit Sonoma has conducted an extensive three-year outreach campaign. The Board of Supervisors is expected to consider the updated Tree Protection Ordinance before the moratorium expires on May 31.
