§ 120-2-1. Definitions.

For the purposes of this Chapter, the following words and phrases shall have the meanings respectively ascribed to them by this section:

"Urban forester" means a person trained in arboriculture, forestry, landscape architecture, horticulture, or related fields and experienced in the conservation and preservation of native and ornamental trees. As used in this Chapter, "Urban Forester" refers to the Director of the Urban Forest Management Division, Department of Public Works and Environmental Services.

"Critical root zone" means the minimal surface area and associated underground root system and soil that must remain undisturbed in order for a tree to survive significant soil disturbing activities such as compaction, cutting, grading, or filling that will occur in close proximity to the tree. The critical root zone is defined by a circle whose radius starts at the center of the tree's trunk and terminates in any direction at the outer boundary of the area that must be left undisturbed in order to ensure tree survival. The formula used to calculate the critical root zone is set forth in the Fairfax County Public Facilities Manual wherein the length of the radius (measured in feet) is proportionate to the tree's trunk diameter (measured in inches). The trunk diameter is measured at 4.5 feet from the ground.

"Destroy" means to cut down a tree or to perpetrate any intentional or negligent act that will cause a tree to decline or die within two years. This shall include, but not be limited to, damage inflicted upon the root system of a tree by the application of toxic substances, by the operation of equipment or vehicles, or by the change of natural grade by unapproved excavation or filling within the critical root zone of a tree, or damage caused by the unapproved alteration of natural physical conditions.

"Director" means the Director of the Department of Public Works and Environmental Services or his designee.

"Heritage tree" means any tree that has been individually designated by the Board of Supervisors to have notable historic or cultural interest.

"Memorial tree" means any tree that has been individually designated by the Board of Supervisors to be a special commemorating memorial.

"Specimen tree" means any tree that has been individually designated by the Board of Supervisors to be notable by virtue of its outstanding size and quality for its particular species.

"Street tree" means any tree that has been individually designated by the Board of Supervisors and that grows in the street right-of-way or on private property as authorized by the owner and placed or planted there by the County. (36-07-120.)