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Tree Removal Regulations

General Information

  • The permit costs $125.00
  • Tree removal permits need to be submitted and paid in person before an inspection can be done.
  • The process takes 3 weeks from beginning to end.
  • We notify neighbors within 150 feet of the property; this usually includes about 10-15 neighbors.
  • Anyone can appeal a tree removal permit. It costs $500 and is heard by the Planning Commission. The decision made by the Planning Commission can be appealed to the City Council.
  • The Permit is valid for 3 months from the date issued.

What Trees Require A Permit?

  • Native trees with a DBH (diameter at breast height) of 6” or greater (19” in circumference measured 4 ½ feet above the ground) see list below
  • Other trees with a DBH of 10” or greater (31” in circumference measured 4 ½ feet above the ground)
  • Any street tree (tree within a public street or right-of-way) regardless of size  

Pruning Permit

  • A pruning permit is required if more than 25% of the canopy (all portions of the tree with foliage) is to be removed, or if the trunk of a protected tree is shared by 2 properties.
  • We will notice the neighbors within 150 feet
  • We will give the applicant a copy of the “Tree Protection Handbook”
  • This permit can be appealed to the Planning Commission and City Council
  • There is a $125.00 fee for the permit

Dead Trees

  • If a tree is dead, but large enough to be protected by City Code a permit is still required.
  • An inspection is made by the City Arborist.
  • The $125.00 fee required; this pays for the inspection.

Emergency Tree Removal

  • Contact the City (868-1201) or Sheriff's Office (292-3233) for emergency approval. 
  • The approval needs to be signed by a Department Head, City Arborist, City Manager or Sheriff's Deputy.

After the Fact Tree Removal Permits

  • Replacement trees equal to monetary value of damages are rquired.
  • City Arborist to determine remedies required.
  • This is required if a protected tree has been removed without a permit.  

Native Trees – 

  • Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia)
  • Valley Oak (Quercus lobata)
  • Tan Oak (Lithocarpus densiflourus)
  • Black Oak (Quercus kellogi)
  • Blue Oak (Quercus douglasi)
  • Scrub Oak (Quercus dumosa)
  • Big Leaf Maple (Acer macrophylhum)
  • California Buckeye (Aesculus californica) 
  • Douglas Fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii)
  • Coast Redwood (Sequoia sempervirens)

Please see the complete Tree Ordinance if you have further questions.