Project Description

Since 1986 for the past thirty-four consecutive years until 2019, Hayward has been recognized as “Tree City USA” by the Arbor Day Foundation until the temporary suspension due to COVID-19. Tree City USA is a nationwide movement established in collaboration with the U.S. Forest Service and the National Association of State Foresters in 1976. The program aims to recognize communities nationwide that are taking steps toward effectively managing and expanding public trees.

The proposed update to the Tree Preservation Ordinance and the Hayward Executive Airport Landscape Guidelines are a combined effort that focuses on a comprehensive review and update of the City’s existing Tree Preservation Ordinance, and any related Zoning Regulations, as well as an update to the landscape design guidelines to the areas near Hayward Executive Airport to determine what landscaping materials are appropriate to minimize wildlife and ensure public safety within the Airport safety zones. Coordinating these updates will result in a more comprehensive and holistic approach towards tree preservation and mitigation measures and will result in cost and time efficiencies tied to public outreach, environmental analysis, and implementation of the new regulations. In addition, the project includes completing a tree canopy study for all the trees within City limits, including trees located on public and private property, open space and natural resource areas, creek and riparian areas and within golf courses.