County commissioners will hold a vote to protect trees Monday night. Officials hope to prevent developers from clearing trees from a lot before applying for a development permit. Currently, development companies can clear trees before submitting their plans for a permit, which allows them to clear cut acres of land. County commissioner Bill Kopp said if approved the amendment would reverse the order of operation. “It will require the property owner, or the developer of the property, to come in and get a permit from the county before cutting any trees on that property.” Kopp said the amendment will not affect forestation companies or those that replant trees after they have clear cut an area. Officials hope the amendment will help to protect the natural beauty of the county. They will vote at the commissioners meeting Monday night at 6 p.m. at the New Hanover county courthouse.