Tree Protection Plan
Plans, specifications and monitoring for construction and remodels near protected trees, written to the city's ordinance.
Who this is for
- Remodels, additions, ADUs and pools near protected trees
- New construction and grading
- Trenching for utilities
- Architects, landscape architects and contractors
What you get
Tree protection plan with the tree protection zone mapped to the city's definition (several cities codify a 10-times-trunk-diameter radius), fencing and signage specifications, grading and trenching protocols, a monitoring schedule, and a contractor briefing.
Turnaround and price
7 to 10 business days after the site visit.
$2,500 to $4,500 for a teardown, SB9 split or addition, including tree appraisals and a plan-sheet-ready Tree Preservation Plan exhibit, with one round of City revisions included; 50% deposit at acceptance; $85 per tree beyond 12. The price is confirmed before the visit; there is no charge for a phone call to decide whether you need this at all.
How this fits the city's rules
Palo Alto, Menlo Park, Los Altos, Saratoga, Hillsborough and others require tree protection measures as a condition of permits. The plan cites the city's section so plan check does not bounce it.
Request tree protection plan
Questions
When is a plan required?
Whenever a city permit touches a protected tree's root zone. The trigger is in each city's code; the city page lists it.
Do you coordinate with the contractor?
Yes. The plan includes a briefing and site visits during the phases that threaten roots: demolition, grading and trenching.