12.02.020 Definitions.
For the purpose of this chapter, certain terms are defined in this section. When not inconsistent with the context, words in the present tense include the future, words in the singular number include the plural, and words in the plural number include the singular; the masculine includes the feminine. The word “shall” is always mandatory and not merely directory. Other words and terms not herein defined shall have the meaning customarily assigned to them.
“Arboriculture” means that part of horticulture which deals with the study and care of trees and other woody plants.
“City” means the incorporated City of Vancouver, Clark County, Washington.
“City Forester” means the City’s Urban Forester, or designee.
“Commission” means the Urban Forestry Commission.
“Director” means the City’s Director of Public Works, or designee.
“Person” means any individual, firm, association, corporation, agency or organization of any kind.
“Tree” means any self-supporting perennial woody plant, generally single-stemmed, that matures at a height of at least 20 feet and is recognized by the City as a tree.
“Urban forestry” means the cultivation and management of trees and related plants for their present and potential contribution to the physiological, sociological, environmental and economic well-being of urban society. Inherent in this function is a comprehensive program designed to educate the urban populace on the role of trees and related plants in the urban environment. In its broadest sense, urban forestry is one essential component of a multi-managerial system that includes watersheds within the City, wildlife habitats, outdoor recreation opportunities, landscape design, repurposing of municipal vegetative wastes and tree care in general.
“Urban Forest Management Plan (UFMP)” means a long-range action plan that coordinates the management and administration of the urban forest. An UFMP is a roadmap that creates a shared vision for the future of the urban forest. It is a detailed plan that coordinates the roles and responsibilities to proactively and effectively manage the urban forest and provide for maximum, long-term benefits to the community. (Ord. M-2726 §3, 1987)