Homeowner Joby Pritzker wins appeal to remove two trees on Buena Vista Avenue
February 01, 2023 | San Francisco City, San Francisco County, California
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San Francisco's Bureau of Urban Forestry is set to approve a significant tree replacement plan following a recent appeal regarding the removal of two street trees at 737 Buena Vista Avenue West. During the meeting on July 4, 2025, the homeowner, Joby Pritzker, presented a collaborative mitigation plan that aims to enhance the landscaping of the property while addressing public safety concerns related to the existing trees.
The appeal arose after the Bureau initially denied the request to remove the trees, which were assessed as being in fair to poor condition. The proposed plan includes the removal of the two trees, one of which is deemed poor and prone to failure, and the other in fair condition. In their place, six new 48-inch box trees will be planted, significantly increasing the biomass in the area. This plan not only meets city standards for tree replacement but also aims to beautify the prominent street across from Buena Vista Park.
The homeowner's attorney, Daniel Turner, emphasized the importance of this project in completing the landscaping of the historic property while ensuring pedestrian safety. The plan also includes the installation of permeable pavers to improve water absorption and manage surface water effectively.
The Bureau of Urban Forestry expressed support for the appeal, noting that the proposed replacement trees would adequately mitigate the loss of the existing trees. They also highlighted the proactive approach taken by the homeowner in planning for more trees than required, which is not commonly seen in such cases.
As part of the agreement, the property owner will be responsible for watering and maintaining the new trees for the first three years to ensure their establishment. After this period, the city's street tree maintenance program will take over the care of the trees.
This decision marks a positive step towards enhancing urban greenery in San Francisco while addressing safety and aesthetic concerns in the community. The collaborative efforts between the homeowner and the Bureau of Urban Forestry reflect a commitment to sustainable urban development and community engagement.
The appeal arose after the Bureau initially denied the request to remove the trees, which were assessed as being in fair to poor condition. The proposed plan includes the removal of the two trees, one of which is deemed poor and prone to failure, and the other in fair condition. In their place, six new 48-inch box trees will be planted, significantly increasing the biomass in the area. This plan not only meets city standards for tree replacement but also aims to beautify the prominent street across from Buena Vista Park.
The homeowner's attorney, Daniel Turner, emphasized the importance of this project in completing the landscaping of the historic property while ensuring pedestrian safety. The plan also includes the installation of permeable pavers to improve water absorption and manage surface water effectively.
The Bureau of Urban Forestry expressed support for the appeal, noting that the proposed replacement trees would adequately mitigate the loss of the existing trees. They also highlighted the proactive approach taken by the homeowner in planning for more trees than required, which is not commonly seen in such cases.
As part of the agreement, the property owner will be responsible for watering and maintaining the new trees for the first three years to ensure their establishment. After this period, the city's street tree maintenance program will take over the care of the trees.
This decision marks a positive step towards enhancing urban greenery in San Francisco while addressing safety and aesthetic concerns in the community. The collaborative efforts between the homeowner and the Bureau of Urban Forestry reflect a commitment to sustainable urban development and community engagement.
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