A.5.3 - Pruning Cuts.

Tree branches shall be removed in such a manner so as not to cause damage to other parts of the tree or to other plants or property. Just above the point along a branch where leaf or lateral shoot growth originates is also the correct place to make a pruning cut. The following standards shall be implemented when pruning trees.

a.

Each cut should be made carefully, at the correct location, leaving a smooth surface with no jagged edges or torn bark.

b.

A pruning cut that removes a branch at its point of origin shall be made close to the trunk or parent limb, without cutting into the branch bark ridge or collar, or leaving a stub.

c.

When removing a dead branch, the final cut shall be made just outside the collar of living tissue.

d.

Large or heavy limbs should be removed using three cuts. The first cut undercuts the limb one or two feet out from the parent branch or trunk. A properly made undercut will eliminate the chance of the branch "peeling" or tearing bark as it is removed. The second cut is the top cut which is usually made slightly further out on the limb than the undercut. This allows the limb to drop smoothly when the weight is released. The third cut is to remove the stub, while preserving the branch collar and branch bark ridge.

(Ord. No. 4492, § 9, 6-21-2016)