Board sides with homeowners and Public Works on relocating ginkgo for driveway; tree transplant plan accepted with conditions

San Francisco — The Board of Appeals on May 18 denied two appeals that challenged a Public Works order authorizing the relocation of a ginkgo street tree at 695 Rhode Island Street to accommodate homeowner renovations including a new driveway and utility work. The decision followed extensive testimony from neighborhood advocates, the project team, an independent arborist and Public Works.

Appellant Joshua Klipp criticized Planning and Public Works for favoring driveway installation over tree canopy preservation and questioned the scientific basis for transplantation without in‑person examination. "I don't think it's irresponsible to rely on the opinion of an expert. I think it's irresponsible to rely on the opinion of someone who never saw the tree," Klipp said, arguing for stronger protective policy and enforcement.

Homeowners Charles Quach and Amy Chen, architect Mark Demolanta and arborist reports — including guidance from Dr. Matteo Garballato — presented a transplant plan that would shift the existing ginkgo a few feet to preserve the tree while allowing the new driveway and full sidewalk/utility work. Public Works urban forestry staff said the tree is a small (approximately 3‑inch diameter) ginkgo, is replantable and that the bureau typically approves transplantation for relatively young, movable trees while requiring safeguards and replacement obligations if the transplant fails.

Public Works representative Chris Buck described transplant conditions and enforcement tools, including increased fines and a requirement that if the transplanted tree does not establish, the applicant must plant a 36‑inch box tree and restart the maintenance period. Commissioners noted public concern but concluded the application met Public Works’ transplant criteria and that the homeowners committed to measures intended to maximize survival. The appeals were denied 4–0.