The South Pasadena Public Works Infrastructure Commission convened on June 11, 2025, to discuss significant updates to the city’s tree ordinance, a topic that has garnered attention due to its implications for urban forestry management and public safety. The meeting featured a presentation by Danielle Garcia, a water conservation management analyst, and Michael Bartanyans, acting co-director of public works, who outlined proposed improvements aimed at enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of the existing ordinance.

The impetus for the ordinance review stems from a directive by the city council, which seeks to streamline the permitting process for tree removals and trimming, particularly in response to the challenges posed by hazardous trees and the overall health of the urban forest. The council recently approved more prescriptive language to facilitate the removal of dangerous trees and the trimming of dead or diseased branches, emphasizing public safety and urban forest vitality.

Garcia highlighted a comparative analysis of tree ordinances from seven neighboring cities, including Alhambra and Glendale, which have been designated as "Tree Cities" by the Arbor Day Foundation. This designation reflects a commitment to maintaining and managing urban forests, a goal South Pasadena aims to reinforce through its ordinance updates. The analysis revealed that many cities have clearer maintenance responsibilities for both the city and private property owners, which South Pasadena could adopt to improve community engagement and compliance.

Key recommendations from the staff include modernizing the ordinance to align with current development needs, establishing clear criteria for tree trimming and removal, and simplifying the permitting process to reduce the financial and administrative burden on residents. The proposed changes also aim to enhance the protection of native species and streamline enforcement mechanisms, ensuring that the ordinance is both user-friendly and effective.

Feedback from the Natural Resources and Environmental Commission (NREC) and the Public Safety Commission underscored the importance of involving community stakeholders in the drafting process and promoting the use of native trees in urban landscaping. Both commissions expressed support for the staff's recommendations, emphasizing the need for educational resources to assist residents in tree maintenance.

Looking ahead, the timeline for the ordinance update includes gathering feedback from the commission, presenting the finalized recommendations to the city council, and drafting the ordinance for a reading in late summer 2025. The goal is to have the updated ordinance in effect by early 2026, reflecting a proactive approach to urban forestry management in South Pasadena.

In conclusion, the discussions at the commission meeting highlight a critical step towards enhancing the city’s urban forest management practices, balancing the need for public safety with the preservation of valuable green spaces. The proposed updates to the tree ordinance are poised to foster a healthier urban environment while engaging the community in sustainable practices.