NORFOLK, Neb. -- A new ordinance involving trees in Norfolk has some council members concerned about overreach in their community.

On Monday, an ordinance was passed on its first reading that would create new guidelines and requirements for trees and shrubs on Norfolk's terrace. Under the ordinance, if approved, citizens wanting to plant trees/shrubs on the terrace would require prior written approval from the city through a permit process. This also applies to the removal of any trees. Other requirements included in the ordinance are pre-approval for what kind of tree is planted, as well as where the tree would be located. 

Norfolk Parks and Recreation Director Nate Powell said the current ordinance is too restrictive, preventing any trees from being planted. Although illegal, this has not stopped trees from being planted. Under the proposed ordinance, Powell claims it will give more guidance on what trees should be planted in the area to prevent damage to city property.

"We want to make sure we can help them find a suitable location for that tree. We want to make sure they pick the right variety so they're not interfering with sidewalks, curbs, power lines...and the arborist will help them navigate all those requirements with the ordinance changes," Powell said.

The permit, according to Powell, would be online, free, easy to use, and have a quick turnaround in being issued. As for in-person evaluation, an arborist who is already employed by the city would evaluate the planting or removal of a tree/shrub.

While many on the council were supportive of the initiative to get more trees grown, some also felt the ordinance was an overreach by the city. Councilman Shane Clausen said requiring a permit to cut a tree down was unnecessary and the city shouldn't dictate what was being done on others' properties.

"I think the program... there's some real merit to it," Clausen said. "The biggest issue I have is having to get a permit to remove a tree from my property. I don't want to come into the city and ask for a permit to tear a tree down in my own yard. That, to me, is overreach."

After a lengthy back-and-forth discussion, it was recommended the board vote on the ordinance in the first reading, which would allow the ordinance to be redone should it fail or allow for more discussion during the council's next meeting. The ordinance was approved in a 6-2 vote, with Clausen and Kory Hildebrand voting no. The council will continue the discussion on the ordinance on Oct. 17.