South Euclid Considers Preserving Large Private Trees

City Council discusses ordinance amendment to protect urban tree canopy on private properties

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

South Euclid City Council is considering an amendment to the city's tree regulation ordinances that would require steps be taken before large trees can be removed from private properties. The proposed amendment, spearheaded by Councilwoman Susan Hardy, would make it necessary to replace any large tree to be removed during construction or get approval from the city's arborist for removal for other reasons. The goal is to preserve the city's urban tree canopy, which Hardy says provides immeasurable benefits to the community.

Why it matters

The proposed ordinance amendment recognizes that trees on private property are an integral part of the city's infrastructure and provide significant benefits, from stormwater management to air quality and property values. By regulating the removal of large trees on private land, the city aims to protect its urban forest and the associated environmental and community advantages.

The details

The amendment would define a large tree as one that is at least 10 feet tall and/or has a diameter of at least 6 inches. Any proposed tree removal that requires a construction, demolition, grading, or utility permit would also require a tree preservation permit. The city currently has a city arborist, but the amendment would expand that role to include urban forestry duties, requiring the arborist's approval for large tree removal. Similar tree preservation ordinances exist in cities like Austin, Texas and Portland, Oregon.

  • The Service Committee discussed the amendment during a meeting on February 9, 2026, but took no action.
  • The Service Committee will meet again on February 23, 2026 to further discuss the amendment.

The players

Susan Hardy

Councilwoman at-large and four-year member of South Euclid's Tree Commission, who is spearheading the proposed amendment.

Sara Continenza

Ward 3 Councilwoman, who expressed support for the amendment during the committee meeting.

John Fahsbender

Ward 4 Councilman, who also expressed support for Hardy's work on the amendment.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Trees absorb water, and that creates less burden on our storm sewer system. They clean our air and provide us health benefits. They provide aesthetic benefits. They increase our housing value. And our mental health benfits, too.”

— Susan Hardy, Councilwoman at-large (cleveland.com)

“Why do we control people's private property for safety, for health, for home value? Trees fall under that category.”

— Sara Continenza, Ward 3 Councilwoman (cleveland.com)

What’s next

The Service Committee will meet again on February 23, 2026 to further discuss the proposed tree preservation amendment.

The takeaway

This proposed ordinance reflects a growing recognition that urban trees, even on private property, are a vital community asset that provide environmental, economic, and social benefits. By regulating the removal of large trees, South Euclid aims to preserve its urban forest and the advantages it brings to the city and its residents.