Louisville Updates its Development Code to Benefit the City's Trees

"A healthy tree canopy could help combat several problems facing the city including urban heat, flash flooding and air quality issues," writes Ryan Van Velzer." A 2015 study found the city is losing about 54,000 trees every year and one city expert has said the city is likely losing even more trees now."

The Louisville Metro Planning and Zoning Committee has taken action to address the loss of trees in Louisville, by approving changes to the city's land development code, reports Val Zezer.

As for the specific changes approved by the committee: "In most cases, new subdivisions and commercial developments that have lots with more than 50% tree canopy would need to preserve at least 20% of those trees. In certain cases, developers would be allowed to pay a fee in lieu of planting or preserving trees."

"Street trees would be required for all land uses along public rights of way," adds Val Zezer in addition to other changes reported in the source article. The changes still require the approval of the full Metro Council to become law.