Whenever there is a planned construction, rennovation or demolition -- even for a fence or driveway -  one needs to submit a permit request to the Office of Buildings.  A buiding site plan must be submitted along with the permit request. Trenching or soil disturbance for installation of underground equipment such as irrigation systems, tanks, wells, etc. also require a site plan.  Copies are routed to the Arborist Division (for permit requets affecting private property) or the Forestry Division of the Office of Parks (for permit requests affecting public property) for review.  [Sec. 158-101(d)]

If the initial evaluation of the building site plan indicates the intent to remove, destroy or injure trees on the subject or adjacent properties a “Notice of Plan Submittal” posting is made by placing an orange sign on the property announcing the potential for tree removal.  This sign must remain in place for a minimum of 10 calendar days.  The impacted trees do not need to be marked at this stage, but the plans must be available for public inspection in the Arborist or Forestry divisions. [Sec. 158-101(e)(?) (as amended)]

If a plan review determines that trees must be removed or destroyed in the intended construction a “Preliminary Approval” posting is made by placing a yellow sign on the property for a minimum of 5 working days.  The impacted trees must be prominently marked with orange paint and the plans must match the site conditions for this posting to occur.  Arborist decisions that include errors of law or of fact may be appealed. The appeal must be made within the 5 working day period.  [Sec. 158-101(e)(f)(?) (as amended)]