http://www.charlotteobserver.com/2011/05/28/2333197/church-fined-for-improper-tree.html
Albemarle Road church fined $100 per branch for excessive tree pruning
By Brittany Penland Correspondent
Posted: Saturday, May. 28, 2011
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Every two to three years, Eddie Sales trims and prunes the crape myrtles at his church, Albemarle Road Presbyterian Church.
But this year, the city of Charlotte cited the church for improperly pruning its trees.
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“The purpose of the tree ordinance is to protect trees,” Johnson said. “Charlotte has always been known as the city of trees. When we take down trees, we need to replace these trees.”
Individuals who would like to trim their trees should call the city foresters to receive a free permit to conduct the landscape work.
Foresters will then meet with the person receiving the permit and give instructions on how to properly trim their trees, Johnson said.
The state Division of Forestry recommends that anyone trimming trees should be certified by the National Horticulture Board, but certification is not required to receive a permit.
On private property, fine amounts are based on the size of the tree improperly pruned. For small trees such as cherry trees or crape myrtles, the fine is $75 per tree. Excessive cutting can increase that fine to $100 per branch.
For large trees such as oaks or maples, the fine is $150 per tree.
Because there is a widespread lack of understanding on how to prune crape myrtles in the Charlotte area, Johnson said, residents found in violation regarding these trees are asked to simply replace them, and the fine will be lifted.
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Guess down in North Carolina, they never heard of the First, Fourth, and Fifth Amendments. Popularly, know as Freedom of Religion, Freedom from Harassment, and Freedom from Takings.
I know what needs “pruning” in Charlotte — Gooferment.
You have to be kidding me!
Argh!
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