De Anza 3 removal Liquid amberMay 12, 2025
Development Department 10300 Torre Avenue Cupertino, CA 95014
SUBJECT: ARBORIST REPORT FOR PROPERTY AT 10500 N De Anza Blvd, Cupertino,
CA 95014
This arborist report includes the observations and assessment of one (1) protected tree.
The Liquidambar styraciflua (Sweet gum) is listed in the TreePlotter inventory as having
fair health. The reason for the removal request is the tree's proximity to the
construction of a new entry and ADA path. The addition of the new ADA path and the
new walkway requires a significant cut on two sides of the tree, less than 5’ away from
the trunk. Liquidambar trees are surface-rooting species with primary structural roots at
the surface or within 12” of the surface. In this case, the addition of the ADA ramp and
the sidewalk shall remove critical structural support roots, which can lead to stability
concerns for the trees. Because the damage from construction will be so severe, it is
unlikely that the tree's health and structural stability will be acceptable once the
construction work is complete. For this reason, we are recommending that the tree be
removed and replaced.
Assignment: Review one Liquidambar styraciflua (Sweetgum) tree growing at 10500 N.
De Anza Blvd, Cupertino, CA 95014, located on the property.
The assignment requires the following activities: visiting the site, verifying the tree,
listing the tree species, diameter, crown radius, tree condition, impacts to the property,
and identifying mitigation options.
Observations: The site was visited on May 7, 2025.
The tools used were a diameter tape and a screwdriver as a probe. Crown height and
radius were estimated. The map’s one (1) tree was measured for trunk diameter at
approximately 4.5 feet above grade with a diameter tape. The tree was assessed and
rated for health and structure. The overall condition considers branch structure, decay,
leaf quality, vitality, dieback, lean, and other issues that affect the state of the trees.
The health of the one tree was determined by observing the foliage, twig growth, leaf
density, and dead branches. The structure rating was determined by observing branch
attachment, crotch structure, trunk flare, surface roots, decay, insect and disease
TR-2025-012
6/4/2025
Gian Paolo Martire
infestations, growth habits, and physical damage. The overall condition combines the
health and the structure ratings based on the most significant needs.
The Liquidambar styraciflua (Sweetgum) is in fair health. The tree is not thriving;
however, it is not in a rapid state of decline. The tree is currently structurally sound.
Liquidambar styraciflua (Sweetgum) is located in a spot that necessitates its removal.
Discussion: The one Liquidambar styraciflua (Sweetgum) must be removed and
replaced. The proposed construction may impact the tree to the extent that it could
become unstable and/or enter into a severe decline, ultimately leading to its death.
Although a mature tree, the species is not considered desirable and should be
removed and replaced with a direct approach in this situation.
Conclusion: The one one Liquidambar styraciflua tree shall be removed in accordance
with CHAPTER 14.18: PROTECTED TREES.
Mitigation: Plant one 24” box Quercus hypoleucoides (Silver leaf oak) on the property
to mitigate the loss of the Liquidambar styraciflua.
Tyson Carroll
PLA #5803, LEED AP, Certified Arborist
TR-2025-012
6/4/2025
Gian Paolo Martire
Fig 1. Map of the location and DBH of the Liquidambar styraciflua (Sweetgum).
Fig 2. The location of the Liquidambar styraciflua (Sweetgum) in reference to the
constructions.
TR-2025-012
6/4/2025
Gian Paolo Martire
Figures 3 and 4. Photos of
the tree in question. The
proximity to construction
requires the removal of this
Liquidambar styraciflua
(Sweetgum).
TR-2025-012
6/4/2025
Gian Paolo Martire