Bomenbeleid Gemeente Loon op Zand – Municipal Tree Policy and Regulations
The Besluit van de gemeenteraad van de gemeente Loon op Zand houdende regels omtrent het Bomenbeleid is the official regulatory framework governing the management, protection, and planting of trees within the municipality of Loon op Zand. Effective from May 7, 2020, this policy serves as a specific elaboration of the broader Groenstructuurplan (Green Structure Plan) established in 2016. It operates alongside the Groenvisie, Uitvoeringsplan, and the Bomenverordening 2020, providing legal and technical guidelines for both municipal and private tree populations.
The document's scope covers approximately 13,400 municipal trees, which collectively sequester over 460 tons of CO2 annually and provide a canopy cover of 136 hectares. The policy regulates various ecological and urban domains, including climate adaptation, biodiversity, and the mitigation of heat stress and peak rainfall impact. It utilizes the i-Tree calculation method to quantify ecosystem services. The regulatory structure is divided into sections covering tree visions, spatial structures in built-up and rural areas, protection and enforcement protocols, and specific criteria for felling permits and compensatory replanting.
Professional users including landscape architects, urban planners, and developers are guided by defined technical standards such as the Handboek Bomen (2018) and the HIWOR (Inrichting van en werken in de Openbare Ruimte). The document establishes clear procedures for the assessment of valuable trees and the management of pests like the Eikenprocessierups (oak processionary caterpillar) and diseases such as Iepziekte (Dutch elm disease).
Groenstructuurplan and Vision
The tree policy is part of a tripartite green strategy designed for a 10-year horizon. It translates general green ambitions into concrete objectives for the municipal tree population, categorized by local identity and area functions.
- Identity: Strategic placement of trees to emphasize local character and historical lines.
- Functionality: Enhancing residential areas, shopping centers, and industrial zones through specific species selection.
- Climate Adaptation: Utilizing trees for water retention and reduction of the heat island effect.
- Biodiversity: Increasing species variation and creating ecological connections for local fauna.
Tree Structures: Hoofdstructuur and Nevenstructuur
The municipality identifies specific spatial hierarchies for tree management. The Hoofdstructuur (Main Structure) includes trees along primary access roads, historical elements, and large green zones like the Prins Mauritsplein in Kaatsheuvel.
- Main Structure (Hoofdstructuur): Trees intended for long-term preservation and enhancement, primarily consisting of native species.
- Secondary Structure (Nevenstructuur): Neighborhood-level structures along local roads and in residential parks, valued for local aesthetics and livability.
- Rural Areas (Buitengebied): Management focused on forest areas, semi-open cultural landscapes, and old reclamation zones.
Felling Permits and Protection Policy
The Kapbeleid (Felling Policy) distinguishes between municipal trees and trees owned by third parties. Protective status is granted based on location, species, and dimensions.
- Municipal Trees: A permit is required for any municipal tree with a stem circumference greater than 50 cm measured at 1.30 meters above ground level.
- Private Trees: Protection applies to trees on the Bomenkaart (Tree Map) or those located in designated Boomzones (Tree Zones) such as estates.
- Valuable Trees: A scoring system evaluates trees on species, size, origin, dendrological value, and life expectancy; a score of 45 or higher grants inclusion on the protected list.
Compensatory Replanting Requirements
When a felling permit is granted, a Herplantplicht (replanting obligation) is standard. This can be fulfilled through physical replanting or financial compensation to the municipal tree fund.
- Physical Replanting: Replacement trees must reach similar qualitative values within 10 years, including leaf area and stem mass.
- Financial Compensation: Calculated based on the replacement value using the NVTB (Nederlandse Vereniging van Taxateurs van Bomen) method.
- Illegal Felling: In cases of unauthorized removal, both financial compensation and a physical replanting obligation are imposed.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is a permit required to cut a tree in Loon op Zand?
A permit is required for municipal trees with a stem circumference exceeding 50 cm at 1.30 meters height, and for private trees listed on the official Tree Map or located in a Tree Zone.
What criteria are used to determine if a private tree is valuable?
Trees are evaluated on species, stem diameter, life expectancy, growth form, spatial significance, and cultural-historical value, requiring a minimum score of 45 points for protection.
Is damage by roots a valid reason for a felling permit?
Generally, nuisance such as root pressure on pavement, leaf fall, or allergic reactions to pollen are not considered valid grounds for granting a felling permit.
How is financial compensation for tree removal calculated?
The municipality uses the NVTB method to determine the replacement value, which is then deposited into a dedicated tree fund for new plantings.
What is the policy for solar panels and tree shading?
Existing trees are prioritized over solar panels; reduced yields from panels are not an automatic ground for felling, though pruning may be considered in exceptional cases.
How does the municipality manage the oak processionary caterpillar?
Management focuses on monitoring and active removal (suction) of nests in areas where public health is at risk.
