In order to protect and preserve the quality of air, water, soil, wildlife habitats
and other natural resources of Broward County, as well as the health, safety and welfare
of its citizens, the Board declares that the preservation of trees is integral to
the prevention of air and water pollution and must be regulated. The Board recognizes
that tree leaf surfaces trap and filter out ash, dust, and pollution; that tree root
systems hold and consolidate soil and other loose earthen materials, thereby helping
to prevent erosion, reducing non-point-source water pollution and maintaining the
continued vitality of natural habitats for the propagation and protection of wildlife,
birds, game, fish and other aquatic life. In addition, the Board recognizes that trees
provide canopy and shade which has a cooling effect, reducing the consumption of electricity.
The Board finds that improper tree management and destruction has a cumulative impact
that results in or contributes to severe environmental degradation, air and water
pollution, land blight and nuisance conditions. It is the intent of the Board to require
that tree preservation, relocation, removal, replacement, and maintenance be managed
to eliminate deleterious effects upon the quality of air, water, soil and human health.
It is also the intent of the Board to encourage municipalities and citizens to actively
participate in the protection and proper selection and placement of trees to build
and maintain Broward County's urban forest. The Board recognizes that other municipal
and county agencies have adopted rules for the regulation or management of landscape
design and materials which may include trees. This article regulates tree protection
and preservation within Broward County. The Environmental Protection and Growth Management
Department ("EPGMD") is responsible for enforcing the provisions of this article unless
otherwise specified.
