{
 "name": "Bay Area Tree Ordinances",
 "version": "2026-10-21",
 "publisher": "Urban Forestry Guide",
 "author": "Michael Schuck",
 "license": "CC BY 4.0 with attribution to Urban Forestry Guide",
 "cities": [
  {
   "city": "Atherton",
   "region": "Peninsula",
   "code_section": "AMC Ch. 8.10 (through Ord. 679, 5/20/2026)",
   "protected_trees": "Heritage tree: ALL qualifying species at 48\" circumference (15.2\" dia). Oaks (valley/coast live/blue) qualify anywhere on lot; other species only outside main buildable area. EXEMPT any size: all eucalyptus, Bailey/green wattle/black acacia, tree of heaven, mimosa, Monterey pine (Ord. 679, 2026)",
   "threshold": "48\" circumference (15.2\" dia) at 54\" above natural grade",
   "unit": "circumference",
   "measurement_height_in": 54,
   "multi_trunk": "No codified multi-trunk aggregation in 8.10.020(L)",
   "dead_hazard": "Permit required BEFORE removal even for dead/dangerous trees, staff-level approval after Town Arborist inspection; retroactive permits exist only as violation remedy (8.10.070(D))",
   "fee": "FY 2026-27: $775 first tree + $265 each addl (staff level); $7,310 Planning Commission-level; appeal $6,330",
   "fee_schedule_year": "FY 2026-27 (effective July 6, 2026)",
   "penalty": "Removal: 2x appraised value; damage: 1/2 appraised (escalates to 2x if tree dies within 1 yr); + Ch. 1.20 fines (AMC 8.10.070)",
   "arborist_report_required": "conditional",
   "arborist_report_when": "Staff-level (dead/dangerous) permit: the building department 'may require' a certified arborist report at applicant's expense (AMC 8.10.040(A)); the Town Arborist inspects after the application and fee are received. Planning Commission-level removal (tree not dead or dangerous): application packet must include 'A Tree Survey and Arborist Report prepared by a professional arborist' (Heritage Tree Removal Procedure and Application to Planning Commission, item 7).",
   "department": "Building dept counter / Town Arborist (650) 752-0526; Planning (650) 752-0544",
   "permit_service_tier": "A",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "none",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "Atherton's ordinance says nothing about fire or defensible space; a heritage tree may only be removed under a permit, with staff-level approval if the Town Arborist finds it 'dead or dangerous' (AMC 8.10.040(B)), and acacias, tree of heaven, mimosa and eucalyptus are not protected at all.",
   "last_verified": "2026-07-31",
   "sources": "https://atherton.municipal.codes/Code/8.10 | https://atherton.municipal.codes/Code/8.10.020 | https://www.athertonca.gov/583/Arborist-Services-Tree-Protection | https://www.athertonca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/12765/ATHERTON-MASTER-FEE-SCHEDULE-FY26-27_v1UPDATE-7-21-26 | https://www.athertonca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1758 | https://www.athertonca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1897",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-atherton/"
  },
  {
   "city": "Belmont",
   "region": "Peninsula",
   "code_section": "BCC Ch. 25 (Ord. 2017-1120)",
   "protected_trees": "Principal Native Trees (coast live oak, valley oak, redwood, madrone, bay laurel, buckeye): 10\" DBH; Large Diameter Trees (any other species): 14\" DBH single stem; City/ROW/Replacement trees any size. Blue gum & dwarf blue gum eucalyptus, Monterey pine, palms, acacias, dead trees: permit still required but issued automatically",
   "threshold": "10\" DBH (natives) / 14\" DBH (others), at 4.5 ft above natural grade",
   "unit": "dbh",
   "measurement_height_in": 54,
   "multi_trunk": "Up to three largest secondary stems totaling 10\" (natives) / 18\" (others)",
   "dead_hazard": "Dead trees: automatic permit issuance (25-7(b)(6)), permit still required; emergency/fire-danger exceptions can be expedited (25-5(b)); emergency line (650) 595-7441",
   "fee": "$92 flat (waived for emergencies); in-lieu $611/tree",
   "fee_schedule_year": "Current department page (FY 2026-27 master fee schedule PDF not located on belmont.gov; figures taken from the live department page as permitted)",
   "penalty": "Removal fees + replant equal value (Sec. 25-9); stop-work; general penalty BCC 1-8",
   "arborist_report_required": "conditional",
   "arborist_report_when": "Non-development permits: no arborist report listed; the City Arborist books an on-site visit within 72 business hours and 'will assess your tree to determine if a permit may be issued' (Parks & Recreation page). Code application contents (BCC 25-6(a)(2)) list no report, only 'any other pertinent information as may be required by the City Manager.' Development-related permits (building permits, design review, variances): 'the decision-maker may require an Arborist Report or Standard Tree Protection Measures, as appropriate.'",
   "department": "Parks & Recreation (non-development) via eTRAKiT; Community Development (development)",
   "permit_service_tier": "B",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "exempt",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "No permit is needed to remove a protected tree that the fire marshal (or another city official acting officially) has determined is a substantial fire hazard that cannot reasonably be mitigated (BCC 25-5(b)(2)); any other fire-safety removal needs the normal permit, which must be issued without weighing criteria for blue gum, Monterey pine, palm, acacia and dead trees.",
   "last_verified": "2026-07-31",
   "sources": "https://belm-trk.aspgov.com/eTRAKiT/ | https://library.municode.com/ca/belmont/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=CICO_CH25TR | https://www.belmont.gov/departments/community-development/permit-center/tree-permits | https://www.belmont.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation/trees",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-belmont/"
  },
  {
   "city": "Belvedere",
   "region": "Marin",
   "code_section": "BMC Ch. 20.04 Design Review, 20.04.015 (Ord. 2004-5; Ord. 2016-5) and Administrative Policy Manual Policy 15.2 Removal of Significant Trees (Res. 2019-04); Ch. 8.28 Trees (view, sunlight and hazard disputes, Ord. 98-8, Ord. 2016-11)",
   "protected_trees": "No tree-permit chapter. Private tree removal is regulated only through Design Review: 20.04.015(A)(3) makes landscaping projects subject to Design Review 'when a visually significant portion of a parcel is affected', and City Policy 15.2 says removing one or more trees native to Belvedere (such as oaks) greater than 16 inches in diameter, or any removal that is part of a larger Design Review project or required by a prior approval, requires a Design Review application; the City page extends this to 'visually significant trees' judged by size, number and relationship to the lot, with special consideration for redwoods. Dying trees, 'undesirable' trees (blue gum eucalyptus, coast redwood, Monterey pine, Monterey cypress, poplar, Acacia decurrens, Acacia melanoxylon and other fast-growing species per 8.28.080), trees without privacy or screening value and immature trees can be exempted by staff through a Statement of Exterior Changes application and field inspection. Ch. 8.28 governs neighbor view/sunlight claims and hazard complaints, not permits.",
   "threshold": "16\" diameter native trees (policy); 'visually significant' trees of any species by staff judgment; no code threshold",
   "unit": "dbh",
   "measurement_height_in": 54,
   "multi_trunk": "None stated in the policy or Ch. 20.04",
   "dead_hazard": "Dying trees may be exempted from Design Review by staff (Policy 15.2, citing 20.04.015). 'If a tree is a danger to life or property, the Building Official can determine that an emergency exception is necessary under Section 20.04.020(C) and authorize the work' (Policy 15.2); the owner must then return with a plan to correct the loss of visually significant landscaping. Hazard complaints about any tree go to the superintendent of public works under 8.28.030, which can order correction within 30 days (7-day appeal to Council) and lets a complainant deposit funds for a City-retained certified arborist's opinion; Public Works charges $225 plus arborist costs for a Hazardous Tree Evaluation.",
   "fee": "No tree-specific permit fee. Planning Fees (effective July 1, 2026): Design Review - Staff Level $1,496; Design Review Exception Minor $1,496 / Medium $3,490 / Major $5,984; Design Review - Exemption Application $374 (the Statement of Exterior Changes route Policy 15.2 uses to exempt most removals); Planning Commission Design Review $7,978 to $11,967 (addition/new residence tiers); Appeal $5,984; Retroactive Approval 2x total fees plus $500 fine. The independent City-contracted arborist report is billed to the applicant in addition. Public Works: Hazardous Tree Evaluation $225 plus actual arborist costs; Pruning or Removal of a City Tree Application $1,236. Which Design Review line a stand-alone tree removal falls under is not stated on the City page and should be confirmed with Planning.",
   "fee_schedule_year": "City of Belvedere Schedule of User and Regulatory Fees, effective July 1, 2026 (FY 2026-27; Planning Fees p. 8-9 and Public Works Fees), posted as 'Master Schedule of Fees Effective 07/01/2026' on the Planning and Building Fees page",
   "penalty": "No tree-specific penalty. Fee schedule: 'Retroactive Approval 2X total fees' plus 'Retroactive Approval Fine $500' for work done without Design Review approval (Planning Fees line 5); failure to perform court- or arbitration-ordered view corrective work is maintaining a public nuisance (8.28.130); unresolved hazards may be abated at the owner's expense (8.28.030(E)). General Title 20 and Title 1 enforcement provisions not read.",
   "arborist_report_required": "conditional",
   "arborist_report_when": "For significant tree removals that go through Design Review: the City's Tree Trimming and Removal page says 'Most significant tree removals will require a site inspection by an independent, City-contracted arborist. The cost for the report is charged to the applicant. Reports hired by the property owners cannot be considered for \"independent\" review.' Exempted removals (Statement of Exterior Changes plus staff field inspection) need no report. In view disputes an arbitrator 'may require either party to pay for and submit a report from a certified arborist' (8.28.040(F)(1)); hazard complaints can be referred to a City-retained certified arborist at the complainant's deposit (8.28.030(C)).",
   "department": "Planning and Building Department (Planning Department), City Hall, 450 San Rafael Avenue, Belvedere 94920; (415) 435-8902 (Planning) / (415) 435-3838 (Planning and Building); Public Works (415) 435-4111 for hazardous trees; Design Review decided by staff (Director of Planning and Building) or the Planning Commission, appeal to the City Council",
   "permit_service_tier": "C",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "none",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "No fire-safety or defensible-space provision governs private tree removal; the only related rules are that staff may exempt 'undesirable' (fast-growing, flammable) species from Design Review under Policy 15.2, and that in a neighbor view dispute removal may be ordered to prevent growth 'with the consequent danger of increase in fire hazard' (BMC 8.28.080(E)).",
   "last_verified": "2026-10-21",
   "sources": "https://belvedere.municipal.codes/Code/8.28 | https://belvedere.municipal.codes/Code/20.04 | https://cityofbelvedere.gov/tree-trimming-removal | https://www.cityofbelvedere.gov/documents/planning-department-policies/ | https://storage.googleapis.com/proudcity/belvedereca/uploads/2023/07/APM-Part-15-Planning-Department-Policies-compressed.pdf | https://cityofbelvedere.gov/planning-building-fees/ | https://cityofbelvedere.gov/documents/master-schedule-of-fees-effective-07-01-2026/ | https://storage.googleapis.com/proudcity/belvedereca/2026/06/cob-schedule-of-user-regulatory-fees-effective-7-1-26-9e6a9d25.pdf",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-belvedere/"
  },
  {
   "city": "Berkeley",
   "region": "East Bay",
   "code_section": "BMC Ch. 6.52 (Coast Live Oak Moratorium); BMC 12.44 (public trees)",
   "protected_trees": "Coast live oak ONLY: single stem >=18\" circumference; multi-stem >=26\" aggregate. NO other private species regulated. Public/street/park trees protected via 12.44",
   "threshold": "18\" circumference single / 26\" aggregate, at 4 FEET (48\") above ground",
   "unit": "circumference",
   "measurement_height_in": 48,
   "multi_trunk": "Multi-stem: 26\" aggregate circumference",
   "dead_hazard": "No dead-tree exemption; City Manager must find potential danger to life or limb BEFORE removal (6.52.010(C)), request via Coast Live Oak form to trees@berkeleyca.gov",
   "fee": "No permit system exists (no fee); street-tree permits via Parks",
   "fee_schedule_year": "N/A (no fee; BMC 6.52.010 last amended Ord. 7615-NS, 2018)",
   "penalty": "Misdemeanor: up to $1,000 and/or 6 months, each day separate (BMC 1.20.010); street trees: infraction (12.44.090); 1:1 CLO replacement only in affordable-housing exception",
   "arborist_report_required": "no",
   "arborist_report_when": "No arborist report required. The city's 'Coast Live Oak Pruning or Removal Exemption' form (for private property) asks only for applicant/tree address, exception type (pruning >25% or removal), reason for request, and site access; City staff/City Manager designee decides. BMC 6.52.010(C) places the danger finding on the City Manager or designee.",
   "department": "Parks, Recreation & Waterfront, Forestry: (510) 981-6660, trees@berkeleyca.gov",
   "permit_service_tier": "A",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "none",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "Berkeley regulates only coast live oaks on private land and its oak ordinance has no fire exception; the City Manager may grant an exception only if the tree is a potential danger to life, limb or property (BMC 6.52.010(C)), and the EMBER/WUI code (BMC 19.49.070) lets existing trees stay in Zone 0 if pruned to clearance rather than requiring removal.",
   "last_verified": "2026-07-31",
   "sources": "https://berkeley.municipal.codes/BMC/6.52 | https://berkeley.municipal.codes/BMC/6.52.010 | https://berkeleyca.gov/city-services/streets-sidewalks-sewers-and-utilities/city-trees-and-coast-live-oak-ordinance | https://berkeleyca.gov/sites/default/files/documents/Coast-Live-Oak-Pruning-Removal-Exemption_0.pdf",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-berkeley/"
  },
  {
   "city": "Burlingame",
   "region": "Peninsula",
   "code_section": "BMC Ch. 11.06 (Protected Tree Ordinance, Ord. 2037, Dec. 2024)",
   "protected_trees": "ALL species: 44\" circumference (14\" dia) DSH, single threshold, no oak tier",
   "threshold": "44\" circumference (14\" dia) at 54\" (DSH)",
   "unit": "circumference",
   "measurement_height_in": 54,
   "multi_trunk": "Per 11.06 definitions (DSH standard)",
   "dead_hazard": "Emergency removal only BY ORDER of Parks & Rec Director (or designated emergency personnel); ordered removals completed within 7 days (11.06.030). No remove-first option",
   "fee": "FY 2026-27 Master Fee Schedule (effective July 1, 2026), Trees and Parks Fees: Protected Tree Removal Application Fee - Residential $462 per application; Residential - No Public Notification $158; Commercial $779; Tree Replacement In-Lieu Fee $325 per inch of diameter at standard height; Appeal to Beautification Commission from Arborist's decision $308; Appeal to Hearing Officer $769; Noticing $158; Private Tree Emergency Work $141/hour (business hours). Was $451 / $154 / $760 in FY 25-26. The 'failure-to-replant $1,541/tree' line from the input does not appear in the FY 26-27 schedule (no 'replant' or 'failure' fee line found; replacement shortfalls are now handled by the $325/inch in-lieu fee). Note: the city FAQ page still shows stale '$439 residential and $740 commercial.'",
   "fee_schedule_year": "FY 2026-27 (effective July 1, 2026), p. 18 of 27",
   "penalty": "Misdemeanor/infraction up to $1,000 per violation (each tree/day separate) + restitution: replacement tree or appraised value + replacement costs (11.06.120)",
   "arborist_report_required": "conditional",
   "arborist_report_when": "At the Parks & Recreation Director's discretion: BMC 11.06.060(b) lists eight items the director 'may require,' the first being an arborist report from a city-approved arborist. In practice the City Arborist inspects after the online application (two photos + schematic); the FAQ says 'An independent arborist report is often requested since the City Arborist cannot perform work on private trees,' and a structural engineer's report is required when building damage is claimed. Development projects require a project arborist (certified) and tree protection plan.",
   "department": "Parks Division - Trees/Arborist, Phone (650) 558-7330, parksadmin@burlingame.org, Mon-Fri 8 a.m.-4 p.m., 850 Burlingame Avenue (Trees & Urban Forest page 'Contact Us'). (650) 558-7300 is the Recreation Division line. After-hours tree emergency: Burlingame PD (650) 777-4100. Residential and commercial applications are online forms (burweblink.burlingame.org/Forms/treepermit).",
   "permit_service_tier": "A",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "none",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "Burlingame's ordinance is silent on fire and defensible space; a protected tree may be removed without a permit only on an emergency order of the Parks and Recreation Director (or, if unavailable, police, fire, parks or public works staff) for disease or danger to life or property (BMC 11.06.030), and the director weighs tree condition and failure likelihood under 11.06.060(c).",
   "last_verified": "2026-07-31",
   "sources": "https://burlingame.org/DocumentCenter/View/9097/Master-Fee-Schedule-FY-26-27-PDF | https://ecode360.com/44510900 | https://portal.laserfiche.com/p7389/forms/treepermit | https://portal.laserfiche.com/p7389/forms/treepermitcommercial | https://www.burlingame.org/466/Trees-Urban-Forest | https://www.burlingame.org/472/Private-Protected-Tree-FAQ | https://www.burlingame.org/DocumentCenter/View/5774/Guidelines-for-the-Private-Protected-Tree-Permit",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-burlingame/"
  },
  {
   "city": "Campbell",
   "region": "South Bay",
   "code_section": "CMC Ch. 21.32 (Tree Protection Regulations)",
   "protected_trees": "Developed single-family lots: ONLY oak (Quercus), redwood (Sequoia), cedar (Cedrus), ash (Fraxinus) at 12\"+ dia. Non-SFR/undeveloped: ALL species 12\"+. Fruit trees & ALL eucalyptus exempt everywhere. Heritage trees: designated by Historic Preservation Board (any species, owner consent)",
   "threshold": "12\" diameter (38\" circumference) at FOUR FEET (48\") above adjacent grade",
   "unit": "dbh",
   "measurement_height_in": 48,
   "multi_trunk": "At least one trunk >=12\" dia (21.32.050(B))",
   "dead_hazard": "Dead/dying removal only AFTER Community Development Director determination (zoning clearance + photos); true emergencies: notify Director BEFOREHAND, permit within 10 days after (21.32.060(A),(F); 21.32.065)",
   "fee": "FY 2027 Master Fee Schedule (eff. July 1, 2026): Tree Removal Permit - ALL, Dead Tree $0; SFR $0 (+$0 each additional tree); Non-SFR $310 (+$97 each additional tree, same permit); Pre-Qualified Consultant Report Review - Tree Removal Arborist Report $259 (1 hr staff time); In-Lieu Fee $653 per 24-inch box equivalent / $2,176 per 36-inch box equivalent; Tree-related appeal to Parks & Rec Commission $200. (Input FY26 figures were $303 / $253 / $639 / $2,130.) Fees marked [e] auto-adjust by CPI each July 1.",
   "fee_schedule_year": "FY 2026-27 (FY 2027 Master Fee Schedule - Effective July 1, 2026)",
   "penalty": "Infraction (<=$100)/misdemeanor (<=$1,000, 6 mo) + replacement penalty at 2x (SFR) or 4x (other) normal ratio and/or CTLA-appraised value (21.32.160)",
   "arborist_report_required": "conditional",
   "arborist_report_when": "Only when 'the condition or viability of the tree(s) or its impact to property is not readily evident' - Community Development Director may require it (CMC 21.32.070(B); dead/dying trees 21.32.065(C)); assigned planner informs applicant. Director Interpretation No. 10 (signed 01/04/26) lets dying trees documented by photos/staff inspection be processed by Zoning Clearance, with an arborist report required only where the condition is not visually apparent from ground level. Report is procured by the City from a pre-qualified consultant at applicant expense.",
   "department": "Community Development, Planning Division (408) 866-2140",
   "permit_service_tier": "A",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "none",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "Campbell's ordinance has no fire or defensible-space provision; a protected tree may be removed without a permit only in an emergency on order of the Community Development Director or police/fire staff (notify first, permit within 10 days), as a declared public nuisance, or if determined dead or dying (CMC 21.32.060), and eucalyptus is not protected.",
   "last_verified": "2026-07-31",
   "sources": "https://library.municode.com/ca/campbell/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=TIT21ZO_CH21.32TRPRRE | https://www.campbellca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/15191/Tree-Removal-Permits-Application-Checklist | https://www.campbellca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/29705/FY-2027-Master-Fee-Schedule---Effective-July-1-2026 | https://www.ci.campbell.ca.us/1050/Applications-Center | https://www.ci.campbell.ca.us/DocumentCenter/View/14664/Planning-Application-Fees | https://www.mygovernmentonline.org/apply/?SectionID=2&State=CA&JurisdictionID=187&ProjectTypeID=15",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-campbell/"
  },
  {
   "city": "Contra Costa County (unincorporated)",
   "region": "Contra Costa",
   "code_section": "Contra Costa County Ordinance Code Title 8, Division 816 Trees, Chapter 816-6 Tree Protection and Preservation, secs. 816-6.2002-816-6.1208 (Ords. 94-59, 94-22; Ord. 2024-23 (12/3/2024) updated director references); Chapter 816-4 Heritage Tree Preservation (HTP) District (Ord. 88-83) for Board-designated heritage trees; Municode version May 28, 2026. A March 2025 public-review draft rewriting Ch. 816-6 and repealing Ch. 816-4 had not been codified as of that version.",
   "protected_trees": "Circumference-based. (1) EVERYWHERE in the unincorporated county: a listed indigenous tree 20\" or larger in circumference (approximately 6.5\" diameter) at 4.5 ft that is 'adjacent to or part of a riparian, foothill woodland or oak savanna area, or part of a stand of four or more trees' (26 taxa: bigleaf maple, box elder, California buckeye, white alder, madrone, toyon, California black walnut, California juniper, tanoak, knobcone pine, Digger (gray) pine, California sycamore, Fremont and black cottonwood, coast live oak, canyon live oak, blue oak, California black oak, valley oak, interior live oak, yellow/red/arroyo willow, coast red elderberry, coast redwood, California bay); plus any tree preserved on an approved map, plan or condition of approval, and any replacement tree for an unlawfully removed tree. (2) On SPECIFIED PROPERTIES (developed commercial, professional-office or industrial parcels; ANY undeveloped property in any district; general-plan recreation or open-space areas; general-plan visually significant riparian or ridgeline vegetation where the tree is in a riparian, foothill woodland or oak savanna area): ANY species 20\" or larger in circumference (approx. 6.5\" diameter) at 4.5 ft, any multistemmed tree whose circumferences sum to 40\" or more, and any significant grouping or grove of four or more trees (816-6.6004). Developed single-family lots: only the indigenous-species/riparian-woodland-savanna-or-stand trees are protected. Heritage trees (72\" circumference or Board-designated) need a separate permit only once designated and registered by the Board (816-4.402, 816-4.602).",
   "threshold": "20\" circumference (approx. 6.5\" diameter) at 4.5 ft: listed natives in riparian/woodland/savanna areas or stands of 4+ everywhere; any species on undeveloped, commercial/office/industrial, open-space or ridgeline parcels; multi-stem sum 40\" circumference on those parcels",
   "unit": "circumference",
   "measurement_height_in": 54,
   "multi_trunk": "On the specified properties of 816-6.6004(3) only: 'Any multistemmed tree with the sum of the circumferences measuring forty inches or larger, measured four and one-half feet from ground level' is protected (816-6.6004(2)(B)). No multi-stem rule is written for the countywide indigenous-species class.",
   "dead_hazard": "816-6.1002(1) Hazardous Situation: no permit for 'Any tree whose condition creates a hazardous situation which requires immediate action as determined by the director, building inspector, sheriff, involved fire district or a utility company to protect its facilities. During off-hours, when officials described above are unavailable, the hazardous situation may be corrected and a report of the incident and description of the hazard shall be submitted to the director within ten days of the incident.' Dead or declining trees that are not an immediate hazard need the tree permit; 'the arborist report indicates that the tree is in poor health and cannot be saved' and 'the tree is in danger of falling and cannot be saved by some other means (such as pruning)' are approval factors (816-6.8010(2)(A), (C)), and a report by an arborist 'may be required' when the reasons relate to tree health (816-6.8008). Routine pruning without topping is exempt; topping (removing the upper 25% or more of the trunk or leader) needs a permit. Designated heritage trees in a hazardous condition may be removed with the zoning administrator's permission without formal application (816-4.604).",
   "fee": "Land Development Fee Schedule (adopted by the Board of Supervisors May 24, 2022, effective August 10, 2022; the Planning Applications page links it as the current County Fee Schedule): S-051D Tree Permit $750 minimum deposit, time and materials; S-051F Tree Permit with Small Lot Design Review $3,000 minimum deposit, time and materials; S-051J Heritage Tree Alteration/Removal $3,000 minimum deposit plus time and materials; S-051G Heritage Tree (Appeal) $500 minimum deposit plus time and materials; S-051H Heritage Tree Nomination $500 fee per tree (per application); S-051K Heritage Tree (encroachment permit) $1,000 minimum deposit plus time and materials; S-047C/D Appeal (Zoning Administrator) $250 filing fee (general planning appeal line). The schedule's building valuation supplement notes a '7% increase effective 08/10/2022 & 5% increase effective 01/01/2025'; whether that indexing applies to the planning deposit lines is not stated. Payments only through the ePermits Center portal or in person/by mail.",
   "fee_schedule_year": "FY 2022-23 schedule (adopted 5/24/2022, effective 8/10/2022; still the schedule linked from the Planning Applications page on 2026-10-21; 5% indexing noted effective 1/1/2025)",
   "penalty": "816-6.1208: 'Violations of this chapter are punishable and may be corrected in any manner provided by this code or as otherwise allowed by law. Each tree damaged or removed in violation of this chapter shall constitute a separate offense.' Trees damaged or killed during construction without approval must be replaced 'with a tree or trees of equivalent size' of a species approved by the director (816-6.1206); replacement trees for unlawfully removed trees become protected trees (816-6.6004(1)(C)). Code enforcement: Notice to Comply fee two times the permit fee or $300 minimum, $150 per inspection trip (DCD FAQ). No per-tree dollar fine in Ch. 816-6.",
   "arborist_report_required": "conditional",
   "arborist_report_when": "816-6.8008: 'If the reasons for alteration or removal relate to the health of the tree or if grading, trenching or filling is proposed under the dripline of an existing tree, or the review is of a collective tree permit and the director determines that more technical expertise is necessary to make the decision, a report prepared by an arborist may be required, to be paid for by the applicant.' Approval factor 816-6.8010(2)(A) relies on 'The arborist report indicates that the tree is in poor health and cannot be saved'. Development: a tree survey is submitted with the project application (816-6.1004(b)); the 'Tree Removal and Protection Plan' is listed as a special report on the County's General Application requirements; an arborist may be required on site during grading within driplines and must report after construction (816-6.1202(2)).",
   "department": "Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development (DCD), Community Development Division, 30 Muir Road, Martinez, CA 94553; Planning Division (925) 655-2700; applications through the ePermits Center (aca-prod.accela.com/CCC) as a General Application 'Tree Permit'",
   "permit_service_tier": "A",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "approval-ground",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "Fire risk is an approval factor, not an exemption: a permit may be granted because 'The tree is a species known to be highly combustible and is determined to be a fire hazard' (816-6.8010(2)(E)); the only permit-free paths are an immediate hazard determined by the director, building inspector, sheriff, fire district or utility (816-6.1002(1)) and rangeland fire-risk thinning on agricultural parcels of 20 acres or more (816-6.1002(5)).",
   "last_verified": "2026-10-21",
   "sources": "https://library.municode.com/ca/contra_costa_county/codes/ordinance_code?nodeId=TIT8ZO_DIV816TR_CH816-6TRPRPR | https://library.municode.com/ca/contra_costa_county/codes/ordinance_code?nodeId=TIT8ZO_DIV816TR_CH816-4HETRPRHTDI | https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/10443/Tree-Ordinance-Update | https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/4782/Planning-Application-Overview | https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/4782/Submitting-a-Planning-Application | https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/62479/Land-Development-Fee-Schedule-PDF | https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/FAQ.aspx?QID=447 | https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/86677/DRAFT-Tree-Protection-Ordinance---March-2025-PDF",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-contra-costa-county/"
  },
  {
   "city": "Corte Madera",
   "region": "Marin",
   "code_section": "CMMC Ch. 15.50 Trees (Ord. 796 and 797, 1995; Ord. 840, 1999; Ord. 998, 2020; Ord. 1007, 2021; Ord. 1013, 2021), Article II Tree Permit",
   "protected_trees": "Any species ('tree' means any woody plant) on private property with a single trunk circumference of 50 inches or more, or a multi-stemmed tree with an aggregate circumference of 120 inches or more, measured 4.5 feet above grade; removal, destruction or alteration (pruning more than 33 percent of the canopy, girdling, root-zone regrading, etc.) needs a tree permit. Eight 'undesirable species' (blue gum, sugar gum and manna gum eucalyptus, black acacia, green wattle acacia, Monterey pine, all junipers, Lombardy poplar) are exempt at any size, subject to town-arborist species confirmation at 50 inches circumference and above. Listed 'fire-prone trees' (acacia, arborvitae, bishop pine, California bay, cedars, Coulter pine, cypress, Douglas fir, eucalyptus, false cypress, firs, gray pine, junipers, knobcone pine, larch, Monterey pine, pond pine, Scots pine, spruces, Torrey pine, yew) are exempt once the town confirms the species and the fire code official verifies a fire hazard. 'Heritage trees' (100 inches circumference and 50 years old, or 100 years old, excluding undesirable species) cannot be removed under a view claim.",
   "threshold": "50\" circumference single trunk / 120\" aggregate circumference multi-stem (any species) at 4.5 ft",
   "unit": "circumference",
   "measurement_height_in": 54,
   "multi_trunk": "Multi-stemmed trees: aggregate circumference of all stems; permit at 120 inches aggregate (single trunk 50 inches) measured 4.5 feet above grade (15.50.050(1)); heritage tree aggregate 100 inches (15.50.020(12b))",
   "dead_hazard": "No dead-tree exemption; tree condition (disease, danger of falling, fire hazard) is a decision factor (15.50.060(1)). Emergency: 'a tree located on private property ... may be removed without the necessity of a permit application ... upon a determination by the town manager, or his/her designee, that removal of the tree is necessary for the immediate protection of life or property' (15.50.050(7)); the application form adds that an arborist report must then be submitted to Planning to verify the tree's condition.",
   "fee": "Tree Permit: a) Three Trees or Less $300; b) Each Additional Tree After Three $50 (Planning Fees line 27). Appeal: the code fixes the tree-permit appeal fee at $100 (15.50.040(c)); the fee schedule's generic 'Appeal to Town Council' is $1,500 (line 34a).",
   "fee_schedule_year": "Town of Corte Madera Schedule of User and Regulatory Fees and Charges, effective July 1, 2025 (FY 2025-26, adopted April 15, 2025; still the schedule linked from the Planning Division page on 2026-10-21; no FY 2026-27 schedule found)",
   "penalty": "Removing, destroying or altering any tree without a required permit is a misdemeanor; each tree is a separate offense; fines up to $1,000 and/or up to six months in jail (15.50.030(a), (b)); administrative citations and fines under Ch. 9.05 also apply (15.50.030(c)); tree fees and fines are earmarked for town tree matters (15.50.030(d)). No replacement formula or appraisal-based penalty in the chapter.",
   "arborist_report_required": "yes",
   "arborist_report_when": "Every tree permit application in practice: the Town's Application for Tree Permit lists as submittal requirement 3 'An Arborist Report that includes an assessment and recommendation signed by a Certified Arborist working independently of a tree removal service.' The code itself is permissive: 15.50.070(a) 'Where appropriate, the planning director may also consider a written report from an independent tree expert at the applicant's expense, if agreed to by the applicant.' Undesirable-species removals at 50 inches circumference or more need the town arborist's species confirmation (15.50.050(5)); emergency removals need an arborist report afterward (form); fire-prone trees need town species confirmation plus fire code official verification (15.50.050(9)).",
   "department": "Community Development Department, Planning Division, 300 Tamalpais Drive, Corte Madera 94925; (415) 927-5064, plcounter@cortemadera.gov; the planning director (director of environmental services / community development) decides tree permits; appeals to the Town Council",
   "permit_service_tier": "A",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "exempt",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "A listed fire-prone tree may be removed without a tree permit once the town confirms the species and the fire code official verifies it is a fire hazard (CMMC 15.50.050(9)); the eight undesirable species are exempt at any size, and fire hazard is also an approval factor for other trees (15.50.060(1)).",
   "last_verified": "2026-10-21",
   "sources": "https://library.municode.com/ca/corte_madera/codes/municipal_code?nodeId=TIT15BUCO_CH15.50TR | https://www.cortemadera.gov/faq.aspx?qid=82 | https://www.cortemadera.gov/DocumentCenter/View/769 | https://www.cortemadera.gov/DocumentCenter/View/10385 | https://www.cortemadera.gov/137/Planning-Division | https://www.cortemadera.gov/1292/Adopted-Fee-Schedule-FY-2025-2026",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-corte-madera/"
  },
  {
   "city": "Cupertino",
   "region": "South Bay",
   "code_section": "CMC Ch. 14.18 (Protected Trees, Ord. 14-2126)",
   "protected_trees": "11 specimen species at size (native oaks x5, CA buckeye, big leaf maple, deodar cedar, blue atlas cedar, bay laurel, western sycamore); heritage trees, development-approval trees, R-1 privacy trees at ANY size. Redwood, madrone, eucalyptus, other non-natives NOT protected",
   "threshold": "Specimen: 12\" dia single trunk (38\" circ) / 24\" aggregate multi-trunk (75\" circ), at 4.5 ft",
   "unit": "dbh",
   "measurement_height_in": 54,
   "multi_trunk": "Multi-trunk DBH inclusive of ALL trunks, straight sum, threshold 24\" (14.18.020)",
   "dead_hazard": "Dead: Director determination BEFORE removal; emergency only on order of Director, sheriff, or fire dept; no-fee retroactive permit within 5 working days (14.18.150(B))",
   "fee": "Resolution 26-047, Fees Effective July 1, 2026, Schedule C - Planning: Tree Removal Permit (no Arborist review required) First Tree $483, Each Additional Tree $190; Tree Removal Permit (Arborist review required) First Tree $884, Each Additional Tree $285; Retroactive Tree Removal $6,288 per tree; Heritage Tree Designation $481; Tree Management Plan $9,056; Technology Fee 5.80% per permit. (Input FY25-26: $465/$183; $851/$274; $6,055.)",
   "fee_schedule_year": "FY 2026-27 (Fee Schedule 2026-27, Resolution 26-047, effective July 1, 2026)",
   "penalty": "INFRACTION (Ch. 1.12; Gov C 36900(b): $100/$200/$500) + replacement per Table A (one/two 24\" box; heritage 48\" box) or ISA-appraised in-lieu (14.18.220, .160)",
   "arborist_report_required": "conditional",
   "arborist_report_when": "Required by CMC 14.18.110(A)(2) for removal of a heritage tree, privacy planting tree, approved development tree, or a mature specimen tree with single-trunk DBH greater than 24 inches (multi-trunk greater than 48 inches). Not required for specimen trees 12-24 inch single-trunk (24-48 multi-trunk) DBH unless the applicant exceeds the 36-month removal cap (6 trees or 5%), which triggers an arborist report plus notification. Tree Removal Permit Application form: 'if needed, ISA certified Arborist report'; General Planning Application checklist (rev. 6/30/2026) item 12 requires an ISA Certified Arborist report (within 90 days) when a project involves removal/disturbance of any Protected Tree or any tree on non-single-family property.",
   "department": "Community Development, Planning (408) 777-3308",
   "permit_service_tier": "A",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "none",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "Cupertino's ordinance has no fire or defensible-space exemption; a protected tree may be removed without a prior permit only in a hazardous emergency on order of the Director of Community Development, sheriff or fire department, with a no-fee retroactive application within five working days (CMC 14.18.150).",
   "last_verified": "2026-07-31",
   "sources": "https://codehub.gridics.com/us/ca/cupertino#/d3ef8742-594e-4e92-bb0d-0fbb09d855bd/8e9db1da-9e3d-4957-bb91-62eb351c0611 | https://codehub.gridics.com/us/ca/cupertino#/ff2020ef-ed71-490f-93f8-3cd17cf0c716/5cffb229-1f69-49ab-8144-fa59ea8e8316 | https://www.cupertino.gov/Your-City/Departments/Community-Development/Planning | https://www.cupertino.gov/Your-City/Departments/Community-Development/Planning/Residential-Planning/Tree-Protection-Removal | https://www.cupertino.gov/files/assets/city/v/1/our-community/documents/treeremovalapplicationinde.pdf | https://www.cupertino.gov/files/assets/city/v/2/departments/documents/finance/forms-amp-fees/fy-2027/fy-2026-2027-fee-schedule.pdf",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-cupertino/"
  },
  {
   "city": "Danville",
   "region": "Contra Costa",
   "code_section": "Danville Mun. Code Div. 32-79 (Tree Preservation; Ord. 2025-03)",
   "protected_trees": "12 protected native species (coast live/valley/canyon live/blue/CA black/interior live oak, white alder, CA bay, buckeye, CA sycamore, madrone, London plane) at 10\" single / 20\" combined; Heritage: ANY single-trunk species 36\"+ dia; Memorial: public-property commemorative any size",
   "threshold": "10\" dia single (natives) / 36\" heritage, at 4.5 ft above natural grade",
   "unit": "dbh",
   "measurement_height_in": 54,
   "multi_trunk": "Natives: 20\" combined multi-trunk; heritage limited to single-trunk trees (multi-trunk cannot be heritage)",
   "dead_hazard": "Application to Planning; no published self-help exemption",
   "fee": "Town of Danville Master Fee Schedule FY 2026/27 (Resolution 47-2026, adopted June 3, 2026; effective July 1, 2026; Development Services fees effective August 3, 2026), Development Services - Planning: Tree Removal Permit - Residential $249; Commercial $664. Fee waived per 32-79.5(b) for removals required for proximity to the residence / defensible space / fuel break per insurer or fire-agency notice, for solar access, and for dead or dying trees with sufficient evidence (permit still required).",
   "fee_schedule_year": "FY 2026/27 (Development Services fees effective August 3, 2026)",
   "penalty": "Misdemeanor + civil damages of 3x CTLA-appraised value (32-79.13), the region's only true treble-damages scheme; replacement: minor/no development 1x 15-gal (<20\" removed) or 2x (>=20\"); major development inch-for-inch (32-79.8, Ord. 2025-03)",
   "arborist_report_required": "conditional",
   "arborist_report_when": "At the discretion of the Chief of Planning - 'if determined necessary' (32-79.6(c)). The Planning Division's Tree Removal requirements sheet (REV. 1024) says: 'In cases where the reasons for the proposed tree removal are not clearly visible, the applicant may be asked to submit an arborist report for the tree(s).' Applications tied to a major or minor development project must include a detailed tree site plan (32-79.6(b)); mitigation ratios may be adjusted 'based on an arborist report or environmental study' (32-79.8(c)).",
   "department": "Planning Division (925) 314-3310, planning@danville.ca.gov",
   "permit_service_tier": "A",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "expedited",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "A tree removal permit is still required, but the application fee is waived when the tree must be removed because it is close to the primary residence or to maintain defensible space or a fuel break in order to comply with a notice from your fire insurer or a fire protection agency; that notice is also a ground for approval (Danville Mun. Code 32-79.5.b.1, 32-79.7).",
   "last_verified": "2026-07-31",
   "sources": "https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/danvilleca/latest/danville_ca/0-0-0-15744 | https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/danvilleca/latest/danville_ca/0-0-0-15752 | https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/danvilleca/latest/danville_ca/0-0-0-9336 | https://www.danville.ca.gov/503/Planning-Reviews | https://www.danville.ca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1010 | https://www.danville.ca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/11251/Tree-Removal-Permit-Application-PDF | https://www.danville.ca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/836/Master-Fee-Schedule-PDF",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-danville/"
  },
  {
   "city": "Dublin",
   "region": "East Bay",
   "code_section": "DMC Ch. 5.60 (Heritage Tree Ordinance; Ord. 29-99, 5-02, 5-20), secs. 5.60.010-5.60.120; street trees DMC Ch. 7.56 (Ord. 3-14); ecode360 code includes legislation through 06-02-2026",
   "protected_trees": "Heritage tree = any oak, bay, cypress, maple, redwood, buckeye or sycamore with a trunk or main stem of 24\" or more in diameter at 4 ft 6 in above natural grade; PLUS any tree required to be preserved by an approved development plan, zoning/use permit, site development review or subdivision map, and any tree planted as a replacement for an unlawfully removed tree (any size). Applies to all property in the city, private and public, developed and undeveloped (5.60.030). Other species, and listed species under 24\" DBH, need no city permit on private property.",
   "threshold": "24\" DBH (oak, bay, cypress, maple, redwood, buckeye, sycamore only) at 4 ft 6 in above natural grade",
   "unit": "dbh",
   "measurement_height_in": 54,
   "multi_trunk": "None. 5.60.040 measures 'a trunk or main stem'; the chapter has no multi-trunk or aggregate provision.",
   "dead_hazard": "Immediate hazard: 'Removal of a heritage tree that presents an immediate hazard to life or property, with the approval of the Director, City Engineer, Police Chief, Fire Chief or their designee' needs no permit (5.60.050(B)(1)); approval from one of those officials is still required before removal. Dead, dying or declining heritage trees otherwise go through the normal permit; tree condition is the first decision criterion (5.60.060(C)(1)) and 'a certified arborist's determination of the state of health of the heritage trees may be required' (5.60.060(A)(3)). No fee waiver for dead trees in the code or fee sheet.",
   "fee": "Heritage Tree Removal Permit $324 (City of Dublin Planning Division Fee Schedule effective July 1, 2026; adopted by Council Resolution No. 25-26; fees rise each July 1 by the prior December CPI). Appeal filed by applicant: time and materials; appeal filed by a non-applicant: $258. The Director may require an additional deposit to retain a certified arborist to assess the trees for the city (5.60.060(A)(5)); 2% technology surcharge and 3% credit-card fee where applicable.",
   "fee_schedule_year": "FY 2026-27 (effective July 1, 2026)",
   "penalty": "Civil penalty equal to twice the appraised value of the tree, appraised by a city-selected arborist to industry standards, plus the city's appraisal costs; mandatory replacement with new tree(s) and/or additional plantings of the same species, size and location set by the Director (5.60.120). For development sites the tree-protection cash bond or security (based on tree valuation) is forfeited as a civil penalty for unauthorized removal (5.60.100).",
   "arborist_report_required": "conditional",
   "arborist_report_when": "At the Director's discretion: 5.60.060(A)(3) 'If the tree or trees are proposed for removal because of their condition, a certified arborist's determination of the state of health of the heritage trees may be required'; and (A)(5) an additional deposit 'may be required by the Director to retain a certified arborist to assist the city in assessing the condition of the trees'. Development applications must include a landscaping plan showing all trees (5.60.060(B)) and, where a heritage tree is on a demolition/grading/building-permit site, a tree protection plan 'prepared and signed by a certified arborist' (5.60.090); the Planning Division's residential-addition checklist requires 'a copy of an arborist report with tree protection guidelines' for sites with a heritage tree.",
   "department": "Community Development Department, Planning Division, Dublin City Hall, 100 Civic Plaza, Dublin 94568; (925) 833-6610; planningpermits@dublin.ca.gov; applications and fees through the Citizen Self Service (CSS) portal https://dublinca-energovweb.tylerhost.net/apps/selfservice#/home",
   "permit_service_tier": "A",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "none",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "Dublin's heritage tree ordinance has no fire or defensible-space provision; a heritage tree may be removed without a permit only if it presents an immediate hazard to life or property and the Director, City Engineer, Police Chief or Fire Chief approves (DMC 5.60.050(B)(1)).",
   "last_verified": "2026-10-12",
   "sources": "https://ecode360.com/49635775 | https://ecode360.com/49638576 | https://dublin.ca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/37413/Planning-Fee-Sheet-7-1-2025 | https://dublin.ca.gov/172",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-dublin/"
  },
  {
   "city": "East Palo Alto",
   "region": "Peninsula",
   "code_section": "EPAMC Development Code Title 18, Art. 3, Ch. 18.28 (Trees on Private Property), secs. 18.28.010-18.28.110 (Ord. No. 02-2022, 5/3/2022); public trees Ch. 12.16; Municode version Jun 9, 2026 (Supp. 25)",
   "protected_trees": "Any species: 'Protected Tree' = any tree on private property with a main stem or trunk 8\" or greater in diameter at 54\" above grade (DSH) (about 25\" circumference, the figure on the city's June 2025 handout); plus any tree required to be preserved or planted as a condition of a development approval, and any replacement tree for an unlawfully removed tree (any size). Trees in a public street or right-of-way: any size, through Public Works (Ch. 12.16). No species exemptions; Cal-IPC-listed invasive trees are a removal criterion, not an exemption.",
   "threshold": "8\" DSH (any species) at 54\" above grade; city handout expresses it as 25\" circumference at 54\"",
   "unit": "dbh",
   "measurement_height_in": 54,
   "multi_trunk": "None. 18.28.020 measures 'a main stem or trunk'; no multi-trunk or aggregate provision.",
   "dead_hazard": "Dead trees, trees expected to die within 5 years, trees at ISA high or extreme risk, and Cal-IPC invasive trees are removal criterion A (18.28.070(A)); the permit and ISA-certified arborist report are still required, but 'Where an arborist report indicates that a tree fits this category, fees may be waived.' Emergency (18.28.060(E)): a tree that 'presents an immediate hazard to life or property, as defined by ANSI A300' may be removed without a permit only 'on order of the City Manager, Building Official, or the Director; an after-the-event permit will be required.' City handout: the person acting must report to Community Development within 5 working days with a certified arborist report and photographs documenting the condition; an encroachment permit may be needed from Public Works.",
   "fee": "Comprehensive Fee Schedule effective July 18, 2026 (Planning): 'Tree Removal* 1-2 trees Base $519; 3 or more Per Tree $30' (the schedule does not say whether the $30 per-tree line is added to the $519 base or replaces it). Fees may be waived when the arborist report shows the tree is dead, dying within 5 years, high/extreme risk or invasive (18.28.070(A)). Financial security (check or approved alternative) for the appraised value of affected trees plus replacement-tree value and staff time, refunded on proof of replacement or in-lieu payment (18.28.060(G)); handout: bond/deposit equal to the appraised value, or replacement-tree cost for a dead tree. Appeals to Planning Commission $9,595 (general Planning line). In-lieu fee = CTLA appraised value of the removed tree (18.28.080(B)).",
   "fee_schedule_year": "Effective July 18, 2026 (revised September 5, 2026 for sewer capacity fees)",
   "penalty": "Violation is unlawful and a public nuisance, enforced under Chapter 1.118 (handout cites 18.118); intentional or negligent removal without a permit requires replanting each tree with two or three new trees, or more as the Director determines, to replace the lost canopy within 10-15 years, under a five-year maintenance agreement; if on-site replacement is insufficient the Director sets a civil penalty equal to the CTLA-appraised value of the tree(s) plus the cost of planting elsewhere, in addition to penalties prescribed by law; tree-removal, landscaping and construction businesses face business-license revocation (18.28.110).",
   "arborist_report_required": "yes",
   "arborist_report_when": "Every Tree Removal Permit application, private or development-related: 18.28.060(A) 'A Certified Arborist report as noted below, is required'; 18.28.060(B) 'The application shall include a tree report by a Certified Arborist report. Any expense associated with the preparation of the tree report shall be the responsibility of the applicant.' Planning handout (6/16/2025) STEP 1: 'Obtain an arborist report from an International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) certified arborist. The report must cite one, or more, of the criteria listed in Section 18.28.070'; required contents: site plan, photos, species, height, circumference at 54 inches, health, risk, why the tree cannot be saved (risk-management pruning, structural support, site/cultural conditions, IPM), reason per 18.28.070, proposed replacement. Development projects also need an Arborist Report and Tree Protection Plan covering all trees 6\" DSH and greater with CTLA appraisal, and a final arborist report before acceptance (18.28.060(C)). Emergency removals need a certified arborist report within 5 working days (handout).",
   "department": "Planning Division, Community and Economic Development Department, 1960 Tate Street, East Palo Alto 94303; (650) 853-3189; planning@cityofepa.org. Public/street trees: Public Works/Engineering, Engineering@cityofepa.org, 853-3189.",
   "permit_service_tier": "C",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "none",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "East Palo Alto's ordinance is silent on fire; a protected tree may be removed without a permit only if it presents an immediate hazard to life or property as defined by ANSI A300 and the City Manager, Building Official or Director orders it, with an after-the-event permit (EPAMC 18.28.060(E)).",
   "last_verified": "2026-10-12",
   "sources": "https://library.municode.com/ca/east_palo_alto/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=EAPAALDECO2018EDCUORADFE62024_TIT18DECO_ART3REAPALZO_CH18.28TRPRPR | https://www.cityofepa.org/sites/default/files/fileattachments/planning/page/3751/tree_removal_handout_final.pdf | https://www.cityofepa.org/sites/default/files/fileattachments/planning/page/3751/tree_removal_ordinance_information_pc_uriel_6.2.20251.pdf | https://www.cityofepa.org/node/3751 | https://www.cityofepa.org/node/4461 | https://www.cityofepa.org/sites/default/files/fileattachments/finance/page/4461/comprehensive_fee_schedule_-_effective_july_18_2026.pdf",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-east-palo-alto/"
  },
  {
   "city": "Fairfax",
   "region": "Marin",
   "code_section": "FMC Ch. 8.36 Trees, 8.36.010 to 8.36.160 (Ord. 743, 2009; Ord. 789, 2015; Ord. 822, 2018; Ord. 850, 2021)",
   "protected_trees": "Every tree: any woody perennial with at least one trunk of 4 inches diameter (12 inches circumference) measured 4.5 feet above the lowest grade needs a permit for removal or alteration, on any parcel. 'Heritage trees' are 17 locally native species protected from a smaller size for findings purposes: California nutmeg, giant chinquapin and toyon at 12 inches circumference (approx. 4 inches diameter); bigleaf maple, California buckeye, California sycamore, madrone, all native oaks, Oregon ash, red alder, Sargent cypress, tanbark oak and white alder at 25 inches circumference (approx. 8 inches); bishop pine, coast redwood and Douglas fir at 38 inches circumference (approx. 12 inches); California bay laurel at 50 inches circumference (approx. 16 inches). 'Undesirable tree species' (acacia, black and Fremont cottonwood, blue gum eucalyptus, liquidambar, Lombardy poplar, Monterey pine, Monterey cypress, all pines, princess tree, privet) can never be heritage trees but still need the permit; when the Fire Department deems one a fire hazard the Director issues the permit ministerially. 'Removal' includes taking more than one-fourth of the foliage in 12 months.",
   "threshold": "12\" circumference (4\" diameter) any species, at 4.5 ft above lowest grade; heritage natives 12-50\" circumference by species",
   "unit": "circumference",
   "measurement_height_in": 54,
   "multi_trunk": "Any trunk: a plant is a tree if 'one or more trunks, any one of which' is 4 inches diameter / 12 inches circumference at 4.5 feet (8.36.020); heritage species thresholds are stated as circumference without a multi-trunk rule",
   "dead_hazard": "Permit still required but ministerial: 'The Director may grant a permit ministerially where the Director determines that ... The tree to be removed is dead or extremely diseased. The Director may require that the applicant provide an analysis by a Qualified Arborist to support this determination' (8.36.040(B)(1)). Emergency (immediate threat to life or immediate and significant threat to property): the tree 'may be removed immediately by permission of the Director, by any officer of the Police or Fire Departments, the Director of Public Works, or any member of the Committee' (8.36.120); after hours call Fairfax Police Dispatch (415) 453-5330 (Town page).",
   "fee": "Set by Town Council resolution (8.36.050(A)); the adopted Master Fee Schedule (Resolution No. 25-24, phased FY 2020-21 through FY 2025-26) lists no tree permit line under Planning and Building; the only related line is 'Appeal Fee $625'. Amount of the tree permit filing fee not found and should be confirmed with Planning and Building Services, (415) 458-2342.",
   "fee_schedule_year": "Town of Fairfax Master Fee Schedule, Resolution No. 25-24 (FY 2020-21 to FY 2025-26 phase-in; the schedule posted on 2026-10-21 and the PDF revised June 2026 contain no tree permit fee)",
   "penalty": "Unlawful removal or alteration of a tree is a public nuisance punishable as a misdemeanor or infraction (8.36.140(A)); knowing violation is also a civil violation with an immediate citation and 'a $1,000 fine' per violation, no first warning required (8.36.140(B), (C)); administrative hearing may be requested within 45 days, then appeal to the Town Council and Superior Court (8.36.150); the fine is a debt to the Town recoverable by civil action (8.36.160). Fee schedule: 'Penalty - Work without Valid Entitlement 1.5x actual cost of permit'.",
   "arborist_report_required": "conditional",
   "arborist_report_when": "At the Tree Advisory Committee's or Director's discretion. 8.36.060(A): 'The Committee may require the applicant to submit his or her application to a Qualified Arborist designated by the town for a report and recommendation. The applicant shall bear all expenses in conjunction with this report.' If the Committee finds the report not credible it may order peer review by a second Qualified Arborist at the Town's expense. For ministerial dead or extremely diseased tree permits 'The Director may require that the applicant provide an analysis by a Qualified Arborist' (8.36.040(B)(1)). Report contents are prescribed by 8.36.070 (species, height, DBH, age; defects and hazards; preservation alternatives; a completed ISA Tree Hazard Evaluation Form). Town FAQ: 'it is advisable that your tree removal application include a report from a certified arborist indicating why the tree must be removed'. A Tree Protection Plan by a Qualified Arborist is mandatory for construction near a permit-size tree (8.36.080).",
   "department": "Department of Planning and Building Services, Town Hall, 142 Bolinas Road, Fairfax 94930; Tree Committee staff contact Susan Waters, (415) 458-2342; paper applications filed at Town Hall at least 14 days before the Tree Advisory Committee meeting (4th Monday, 7:00 p.m., Fairfax Women's Club, 46 Park Road); the Director of Planning and Building Services issues permits on the Committee's findings; after-hours tree emergencies Fairfax Police Dispatch (415) 453-5330",
   "permit_service_tier": "C",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "expedited",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "An undesirable-species tree that the Fire Department has deemed a fire hazard gets a ministerial permit from the Director with no Tree Committee hearing (FMC 8.36.040(B)(3)); fire-department-required trimming for fire or WUI code compliance is not an 'alteration' and needs no permit, and 'potential fire hazards' is an approval consideration for every other tree (8.36.020, 8.36.060(B)(1)).",
   "last_verified": "2026-10-21",
   "sources": "https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/fairfax/latest/fairfax_ca/0-0-0-2858 | https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/fairfax/latest/fairfax_ca/0-0-0-20031 | https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/fairfax/latest/fairfax_ca/0-0-0-20168 | https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/fairfax/latest/overview | https://townoffairfaxca.gov/tree-committee | https://townoffairfaxca.gov/question/when-do-i-need-a-permit-to-alter-or-remove-trees-on-my-property/ | https://townoffairfaxca.gov/master-fee-schedule/ | https://storage.googleapis.com/proudcity/fairfaxca/2026/06/fdc0865b-25-26-fairfax-master-fee-schedule.pdf | https://storage.googleapis.com/proudcity/fairfaxca/2026/10/ordinance-743-tree-regulations-25a47bee.pdf | https://townoffairfaxca.gov/?s=town+code",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-fairfax/"
  },
  {
   "city": "Foster City",
   "region": "Peninsula",
   "code_section": "No tree-preservation chapter (FCMC 12.36.130 parks; 12.40.330 parking strips)",
   "protected_trees": "NO private-tree permit or protection of any kind. Park/community-building trees and parking-strip trees require city authorization",
   "threshold": "N/A, no private threshold exists",
   "unit": "none",
   "measurement_height_in": null,
   "multi_trunk": "N/A",
   "dead_hazard": "N/A, no permit regime",
   "fee": "None (no permit exists)",
   "fee_schedule_year": "N/A (FY 2026-27 fee schedule not reviewed; no permit exists to price)",
   "penalty": "Park trees: misdemeanor <=$100 and/or 1 month (12.12.060) or admin citations $100/$200/$500",
   "arborist_report_required": "no",
   "arborist_report_when": "N/A - Foster City has no private-property tree removal permit, so no arborist report requirement exists. The full Municipal Code table of contents (codepublishing, read 2026-10-09) contains no title or chapter on trees, tree preservation, or heritage trees; the only tree provisions are 12.36.130 (injuring vegetation in parks) and 12.40.330 (removing parking-strip trees needs city consent).",
   "department": "Public Works (650) 286-3270 (encroachment/city trees)",
   "permit_service_tier": "none",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "none",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "Foster City has no private tree removal permit, so no fire exemption is needed; its code regulates only park trees and parking-strip plantings (FCMC 12.36, 12.40).",
   "last_verified": "2026-07-31",
   "sources": "https://www.codepublishing.com/CA/FosterCity/ | https://www.codepublishing.com/CA/FosterCity/html/FosterCity12/FosterCity1236.html | https://www.codepublishing.com/CA/FosterCity/html/FosterCity12/FosterCity1240.html | https://www.fostercity.org/Directory.aspx",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-foster-city/"
  },
  {
   "city": "Fremont",
   "region": "East Bay",
   "code_section": "FMC Ch. 18.215 (Tree Preservation); FMC 12.30 (street trees)",
   "protected_trees": "Protected: natives (oak, redwood, buckeye, madrone, sycamore, big-leaf maple, redbud, bay) 10\" DBH or more; ANY species 18\" DBH or more; any tree 6\" DBH or more on vacant, underdeveloped or development-project lots, or in a grove of 6+ of the same species; landmark trees (Council-designated) any size. Exemption: developed R-1 lots of 10,000 sq ft or less, trees behind the front face of the house (confirm current text).",
   "threshold": "10\" DBH (natives) / 18\" DBH (any species) / 6\" DBH (vacant, underdeveloped or development lots), at 4.5 ft",
   "unit": "dbh",
   "measurement_height_in": 54,
   "multi_trunk": "Per DBH definition (18.215.030)",
   "dead_hazard": "Standard free permit process; landmark removals need Council hearing filed 90 days ahead (18.215.160)",
   "fee": "FREE (18.215.110(a)(1)); only required arborist-report cost billed; city-published turnaround 2-4 weeks",
   "fee_schedule_year": "N/A (code; city page current 2026)",
   "penalty": "Administrative fines $250 first / $750 second / $1,000 third+ per tree + restitution/mitigation (18.215.200(c)); street trees per 12.30.180",
   "arborist_report_required": "conditional",
   "arborist_report_when": "At staff discretion: FMC 18.215.110(a)(3)(D) lets the landscape architect require, 'when appropriate, a report by an arborist selected by the city' for non-development private protected-tree removals; 18.215.120 (development pending/contemplated) likewise: '(E) When required by the landscape architect, a report by an arborist selected by the city'. The applicant pays the report cost via advance deposit (18.215.110(a)(1)). The online Property Owner application asks for photos, not a report.",
   "department": "Urban Forestry Section: treepermits@fremont.gov, (510) 494-4730",
   "permit_service_tier": "A",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "none",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "Fremont's ordinance has no defensible-space exemption; a protected tree may be removed without a permit only when fire department personnel actively fighting a fire, a city official or the landscape architect determine immediate removal is necessary to prevent imminent injury or property damage (FMC 18.215.050(c)(4)).",
   "last_verified": "2026-10-09",
   "sources": "https://www.codepublishing.com/CA/Fremont/html/Fremont18/Fremont18215.html | https://www.fremont.gov/government/departments/urban-forestry/tree-permits/approved-contractor-tree-permit-application | https://www.fremont.gov/government/departments/urban-forestry/tree-permits/property-owner-tree-permit-application | https://www.fremont.gov/permits/tree-permit",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-fremont/"
  },
  {
   "city": "Hayward",
   "region": "East Bay",
   "code_section": "HMC Ch. 10, Art. 15 (repealed & replaced 2025, adopted 9/2/2025, eff. ~10/2/2025)",
   "protected_trees": "17 listed native species at 4\" DSH citywide (including single-family rear yards); non-native trees 8\" DSH or more protected only on commercial property or in residential FRONT yards (10-15.14(2)); redwoods over 36\" DSH (10-15.14(9)); street trees any size; development-approval trees any size.",
   "threshold": "4\" DSH (natives) / 8\" DSH (non-natives, commercial property or residential front yards only) / 36\" DSH (redwoods), diameter at 54\"",
   "unit": "dbh",
   "measurement_height_in": 54,
   "multi_trunk": "Largest three trunks combined (B2-0)",
   "dead_hazard": "Permit approved upon evidence tree is dying/diseased/dead as confirmed by City Landscape Architect (10-15.26(1)), permit still required first; pruning branches >4\" dia also needs permit (10-15.21(1)(i))",
   "fee": "FY 2026-2027 Adopted Master Fee Schedule (Effective July 1, 2026), Planning section item 36 'Tree Removal Permit': Annual Pruning Certification $817; Tree Removal Permit ≤2 trees $498 (fixed), 3-5 trees $996, 6-8 trees $1,245, ≥9 trees $1,000 deposit (T&M), Heritage Tree $1,000 deposit; Tree Pruning Permit ≤2 trees $249, ≥3 trees $747, Heritage Tree $498; work without permit 200% of tree permit fee. The city permit web page (last updated Dec 17, 2024) still states 'The application fee for a Tree Removal/Pruning Permit is $587.'",
   "fee_schedule_year": "FY 2026-27 (effective July 1, 2026)",
   "penalty": "Administrative fine = DOUBLE the permit fee (10-15.29(1)) + misdemeanor exposure; mitigation per 10-15.21(6): residential <=2 trees -> two 24\" box per tree; 3+ trees/commercial/heritage -> ISA-appraised valuation",
   "arborist_report_required": "conditional",
   "arborist_report_when": "HMC 10-15.21(4) (Ord. 25-09, adopted 9/2/2025): required (a) for development projects; (b) for proposed removal of a Heritage Tree, Memorial Tree, three (3) or more Protected Trees, or if requested by the Director; (c) for pruning permits removing more than one-third of canopy, non-ANSI A300 pruning, or if requested by the Director. Also 10-15.22(7): if a permit is sought on tree-risk grounds, 'an ISA tree risk assessment form must be included with the application' rated by an ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualified Arborist. Replacement for 3+ residential trees is based on the valuation in the required arborist report (10-15.21(6)(c)(ii)).",
   "department": "Landscape Architect / Development Services, 777 B St: (510) 583-4208; e-Permits portal",
   "permit_service_tier": "A",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "expedited",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "A protected eucalyptus, pine, acacia, tanoak or Italian cypress whose trunk is within 100 feet of a habitable structure or 30 feet of an evacuation road, or a tree in a high/very high fire severity zone that the Hayward Fire Marshal finds is an unmitigable risk, may be removed without first getting a permit, but a retroactive permit with photographs must be filed afterwards at no fee (HMC 10-15.26(2)(c)-(d)).",
   "last_verified": "2026-10-09",
   "sources": "https://www.hayward-ca.gov/epermits | https://hayward-ca.gov/documents/owner-authorization-form | https://hayward-ca.gov/services/permits/tree-removal-pruning-permit | https://library.municode.com/ca/hayward/codes/municipal_code?nodeId=HAYWARD_MUNICIPAL_CODE_CH10PLZOSU_ART15TRPROR | https://www.hayward-ca.gov/ (tree permit page); Legistar CONS 25-391 | https://www.hayward-ca.gov/sites/default/files/2026-07/Adopted-FY2027-Master-Fee-Schedule-Effective-070126.pdf",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-hayward/"
  },
  {
   "city": "Hillsborough",
   "region": "Peninsula",
   "code_section": "HMC Title 14, Ch. 14.04 (Ord. 789, eff. 7/1/2023)",
   "protected_trees": "Single category 'Protected Tree': ANY species at 18\"+ CUMULATIVE diameter (multi-trunk aggregated) + town-approval-condition trees. No native/heritage tiers",
   "threshold": "18\" cumulative diameter at 4'6\" (54\") above natural grade",
   "unit": "dbh",
   "measurement_height_in": 54,
   "multi_trunk": "CUMULATIVE diameter, multiple trunks added together",
   "dead_hazard": "Hazard track: application reviewed by town-qualified arborist; 30-day hazard-removal window (14.04.040(E)); no remove-then-notify",
   "fee": "FY 26-27: $1,076 planning review + $218 building permit (voluntary); $287 visibly dead; $682 hazardous w/ arborist report",
   "fee_schedule_year": "FY 2026-27 (Appendix A - Schedule of Fees and Charges, 'Most Recent Master Fee Schedule', ArchiveCenter item 2868)",
   "penalty": "$150 PER INCH of trunk diameter OR ISA-appraised value, WHICHEVER GREATER + misdemeanor + 36\"-box replacement within 6 months (14.04.060)",
   "arborist_report_required": "yes",
   "arborist_report_when": "All protected tree removal permits: HMC 14.04.040(C) (improved land), 14.04.050(B) (unimproved land) and 14.04.030(B) (subdivisions) each require 'An arborist report' with the site plan, reason letter, replacement statement and fee. Hazard track (14.04.040(E)): a 'written opinion from a certified arborist' that the tree must be removed within thirty days, reviewed by a town-qualified arborist. Town's Arborist Report Template (v. 23-07-03): 'An arborist report is a required component of a tree removal permit application.'",
   "department": "Building & Planning (650) 375-7411",
   "permit_service_tier": "C",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "none",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "Hillsborough's ordinance has no fire provision; the only fast route is the hazard track, where a certified arborist's written opinion that the tree must be removed within 30 days because of disease, damage or danger, verified by a town-qualified arborist, lets staff issue the permit (HMC 14.04.040(E)).",
   "last_verified": "2026-07-31",
   "sources": "https://hills-trk.aspgov.com/eTRAKiT/default.aspx | https://library.municode.com/ca/hillsborough/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=TIT14TR | https://www.hillsborough.net/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/2868 | https://www.hillsborough.net/Directory.aspx | https://www.hillsborough.net/DocumentCenter/View/2990/Procedure-for-Appeal-of-Administrative-Design-Review-Determination-PDF | https://www.hillsborough.net/DocumentCenter/View/438/ADRB-Application-Tree-Removal-not-related-to-development-PDF | https://www.hillsborough.net/DocumentCenter/View/5461 | https://www.hillsborough.net/DocumentCenter/View/5462 | https://www.hillsborough.net/DocumentCenter/View/5464",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-hillsborough/"
  },
  {
   "city": "Lafayette",
   "region": "Contra Costa",
   "code_section": "LMC Ch. 6-17 (Ord. 694, adopted 11/25/2024)",
   "protected_trees": "Developed: natives (8 oaks, bay, buckeye, madrone) 12\"+ dia. Undeveloped: natives 6\"+ / any other species 12\"+. Riparian (30 ft of top-of-bank): native riparian 6\"+ single or any component trunk 4\"+. ANY size: ROW/street trees, downtown commercial, restricted-ridgeline natives, development-condition (post-11/25/2024), replacement trees",
   "threshold": "12\" DSH developed natives / 6\" undeveloped natives / 6\" riparian, at 4.5 ft",
   "unit": "dbh",
   "measurement_height_in": 54,
   "multi_trunk": "Riparian: any component trunk 4\"+ protected",
   "dead_hazard": "Fire-district notices route through Contra Costa County Fire Protection District (NOT Moraga-Orinda FD), 6-1705; Director acts within 30 days (60 if referred)",
   "fee": "Tree Permit Category I (not associated with development application) $350; Category II (associated with development application) $350; Tree Permit Appeal $350; hourly planning rate $175. Fee waived for dead/dying trees, fire-district notices, and other 6-1705(b) cases. Consultant/arborist peer review billed separately under Agreement to Pay for City Services.",
   "fee_schedule_year": "FY 2026-27 (Planning Fees Effective July 1, 2026)",
   "penalty": "Strict-liability civil fines by diameter: $1,000 (<12\") / $2,500 (12-24\") / $5,000 (24-36\") / $7,500 (36-48\") / $10,000 (>48\") first offense (6-1709(d)) + stop-work + 5-yr development restriction; mandatory replacement, no in-lieu",
   "arborist_report_required": "conditional",
   "arborist_report_when": "Category II (development-associated) permits: required (LMC 6-1707(b)(2)). Dead/dying-tree fee-waived permits: required to attest tree is dead/dying and cause (6-1705(b)(2)). Imminent-threat emergency removal: arborist certification (6-1705(c)(1)). Category I standalone: code lists arborist report only as 'supplemental information as may be necessary' (6-1706(b)(3)), but the current Tree Permit Application (Rev. 2026-03-20) lists 'ARBORIST REPORT prepared by a certified or consulting arborist' as a General Submittal Requirement (YES/N/A checkbox) and Step 2 says to 'ensure that all submittal requirements are included (arborist report, narrative, replacement calculations, etc)'. Director may also refer to a city arborist for peer review at applicant cost.",
   "department": "Planning & Building (925) 284-1976, planner@lovelafayette.org",
   "permit_service_tier": "A",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "expedited",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "A tree whose trunk is within 5 feet of a building or attached deck may be removed with no permit, no fee and no replacement, and pruning for 10 feet of building/chimney clearance needs no permit (LMC 6-1705(a)); trees that Contra Costa County Fire has noticed for defensible space or a fuel break still need a permit but the fee is waived (6-1705(b)(4)); the Director may also waive the permit for Gov. Code 51182 defensible space in consultation with the fire district (6-1705(c)(3)).",
   "last_verified": "2026-07-31",
   "sources": "https://library.municode.com/ca/lafayette/codes/code_of_ordinances | https://library.municode.com/ca/lafayette/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=TIT6PLLAUS_PT4SPLAUSRE_CH6-17TRPR | https://www.lovelafayette.org/city-hall/city-departments/planning-building/do-i-need-a/tree-permit | https://www.lovelafayette.org/home/showpublisheddocument/413/639096152832870000 | https://www.lovelafayette.org/home/showpublisheddocument/6357/639185020827570000",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-lafayette/"
  },
  {
   "city": "Larkspur",
   "region": "Marin",
   "code_section": "LMC Ch. 12.16 Trees, Including Heritage Trees (Ord. 772, 1988; Ord. 1030, 2018; Ord. 1043, 2020; Ord. 1062, 2022; Ord. 1069, 2023)",
   "protected_trees": "Any species: 'heritage tree' = any live tree with a trunk circumference of 50 inches or more measured at 24 inches above natural grade (or above the highest grade, whichever gives the greater circumference), plus any tree or grove designated by City Council action. Multi-trunk: add the circumference of every trunk. 'Fire-prone trees' (acacia over 50 ft, arborvitae, California bay, bishop pine, cedars, Coulter pine, cypress, Douglas fir, blue gum and red gum eucalyptus, false cypress, gray pine, junipers, knobcone pine, larch, Monterey pine, Scots pine, spruces, Torrey pine, yew) still need the permit but get a fee-waived, no-notice permit once the Fire Code Official verifies a fire hazard. Trees under 50 inches circumference need no permit unless in the public right-of-way.",
   "threshold": "50\" circumference (any species) at 24\" above natural grade",
   "unit": "circumference",
   "measurement_height_in": 24,
   "multi_trunk": "Multi-trunk trees: measure each trunk at 24 inches and add the circumferences; the total is the tree's circumference (12.16.010 'Heritage tree')",
   "dead_hazard": "No dead-tree exemption in the code, but the city page says 'no fee for hazard or dead trees' and no neighbor notice is mailed for dead or fire-hazard trees. Immediate hazard: 'When a tree poses an immediate hazard or is dangerous to life or property, it may be authorized to be removed without a permit by order of the City Manager or other responsible City official' (12.16.070(B)); the city page names the City Manager, Fire or Police and gives a Central Marin Fire contact. Sudden Oak Death oaks: staff issue the permit on a qualified arborist report plus site inspection, no notice or hearing (12.16.070(M)).",
   "fee": "Heritage Tree Removal Permit - Administrative: $239 flat fee (FY 2026-27, effective July 1, 2026); $234 in FY 2025-26 (the Planning Department's Tree Removal Permits page still quotes '$234 (2025-26) Fee (no fee for hazard or dead trees)'). Fee waived for emergency removals (immediate hazard per the City Manager) and for pyrophytic trees required for removal by the Fire Department (schedule note [b]); heritage tree removal with a Planning Commission entitlement is a $459 add-on entitlement, waived when required by the Fire Department for vegetation management (note [c]). Appeals: to the Planning Commission or of a City Manager decision to Council $1,000 applicant / $750 non-applicant.",
   "fee_schedule_year": "City of Larkspur Schedule of User and Regulatory Fees, effective July 1, 2026 (FY 2026-27; Planning Fees p. 7-8, line 4 'Heritage Tree Removal Permit - Administrative', columns '2025/26 Fee' $234 / '2026/27 Fee' $239)",
   "penalty": "Unlawful removal, destruction or damage of a heritage tree: penalty equal to twice the appraised value of the tree (City Arborist appraisal per the Guide for Plant Appraisal) plus the City's appraisal costs; mandatory replacement with the same species in a size and location set by the City Manager; violation is a public nuisance (9.24.030) and a misdemeanor (10.76.010); civil action with recovery of the City's investigation, trial, overhead and attorney costs (12.16.080)",
   "arborist_report_required": "yes",
   "arborist_report_when": "Every heritage tree removal permit unless the City Manager exempts it: 12.16.070(E) 'A report and recommendation from a qualified arborist shall be provided unless exempted by the City Manager.' The city page lists as a submittal requirement 'Central Marin Fire inspection report (for fire hazard trees) or a qualified arborist report (arborist certified by and in good standing with the International Society of Arboriculture) - contact staff for exceptions', so a fire-hazard tree can be supported by the fire inspection report instead. Diseased oaks: a qualified arborist report substantiating Sudden Oak Death is mandatory (12.16.070(M)). The City may also require the applicant to pay a City Arborist to monitor permitted work.",
   "department": "Planning Division, Community Development Department, 400 Magnolia Avenue, Larkspur 94939; (415) 927-5038, planning@cityoflarkspur.org; applications filed on eTRAKiT; City Manager (or designee) decides administrative permits, Planning Commission decides removals tied to construction and protested permits; Code Enforcement (415) 927-5125; Central Marin Fire verifies fire-prone trees",
   "permit_service_tier": "A",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "expedited",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "A listed fire-prone tree still needs the heritage tree permit, but once the Fire Code Official verifies it is a fire hazard the City Manager must grant the permit with the fee waived and no notice, findings or hearing (LMC 12.16.070(K)); the fee schedule also waives the fee for pyrophytic trees required for removal by the Fire Department.",
   "last_verified": "2026-10-21",
   "sources": "https://larkspur.municipal.codes/Code/12.16 | https://larkspur.municipal.codes/Code/12.16.010 | https://larkspur.municipal.codes/Code/12.16.070 | https://larkspur.municipal.codes/Code/12.16.080 | https://www.larkspur.ca.gov/995/Tree-Removal-Permits | https://www.larkspur.ca.gov/996/Fees-and-Fee-Studies-for-Development-Projects | https://www.larkspur.ca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/22821",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-larkspur/"
  },
  {
   "city": "Los Altos",
   "region": "South Bay",
   "code_section": "LAMC Ch. 11.08 (Ord. 2024-506, eff. 2/13/2024)",
   "protected_trees": "Any tree 12\"+ dia (38\" circ); native species (24-species list: 9 oaks, buckeye, big leaf maple, madrone, Douglas fir, CA laurel, W sycamore, alders, willows, cottonwoods, redbud, Oregon ash, black walnut) 10\"+; heritage trees designated/decided by Historical Commission any size",
   "threshold": "12\" dia general / 10\" natives, at 48\" (FOUR FEET) above grade, deviates from 54\" standard",
   "unit": "dbh",
   "measurement_height_in": 48,
   "multi_trunk": "Per DBH definition",
   "dead_hazard": "No self-help exemption published; dead trees still need permit + MANDATORY 1:1 replacement (24\" box) within 30 days (11.08.120), sole exception: trees that caused direct structural damage",
   "fee": "FY2026-27 Fee Schedule (Effective July 1, 2026), Development Services: Tree Removal Permit First Tree $314.57; Each Additional Tree $157.28; Invasive Species (subject to verification) $0.00; In-Lieu Tree Replacement Fee $1,258.29; Consulting Arborist actual cost; Appeal $1,048.57. (Input FY25-26: $306.90 / $153.45 / $1,227.60 / appeal $1,023.)",
   "fee_schedule_year": "FY 2026-27 (City of Los Altos Fee Schedule FY2026-27, effective July 1, 2026)",
   "penalty": "Misdemeanor (Ch. 1.20) + per-tree penalty: CTLA-appraised value DOUBLED if paid in cash, or equivalent replacement (11.08.160); significant pruning (>33% foliage/12 mo) = removal",
   "arborist_report_required": "yes",
   "arborist_report_when": "Every private-property Tree Removal Permit application: Planning Division submittal checklist requires (item 3) an Arborist Report prepared by a Certified Arborist and (item 4) a Replacement Plan prepared by a Certified Arborist; Process Handout: review is initiated only when all checklist items 'including an arborist report and replacement plan prepared by a Certified Arborist' are submitted. Code LAMC 11.08.120(C) mandates the certified-arborist replacement plan with the application; 11.08.100(B) lets the approval authority additionally require an independent certified arborist report at applicant expense.",
   "department": "Development Services, Planning Division (650) 947-2750",
   "permit_service_tier": "B",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "none",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "Los Altos' ordinance is silent on fire; a tree may be removed without a permit only when a hazardous or dangerous condition requires immediate action and the development services director, public works director or any police or fire department member orders it (LAMC 11.08.110(A)); dead or diseased trees can be exempted on photo review.",
   "last_verified": "2026-07-31",
   "sources": "LAMC 11.08 (Ord. 2024-506); losaltosca.gov | https://library.municode.com/ca/los_altos/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=TIT11MIPRRE_CH11.08TRPRRE | https://trakit.losaltosca.gov/etrakit/ | https://www.losaltosca.gov/444/Planting-Removing-Trees | https://www.losaltosca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1692 | https://www.losaltosca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1694 | https://www.losaltosca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1734/Tree-Removal-Permit-Process-Handout-PDF | https://www.losaltosca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1735/Tree-Removal-Permit-Submittal-Requirements-PDF | https://www.losaltosca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/2840/Fee-Schedule-Fiscal-Year-2627-PDF",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-los-altos/"
  },
  {
   "city": "Los Altos Hills",
   "region": "Peninsula",
   "code_section": "LAHMC Title 12, Chapter 2 (Trees, Shrubs and Plants), Article 1 Definitions sec. 12-2.101 and Article 3 Heritage Oaks secs. 12-2.301 to 12-2.307 (Ord. 332, eff. June 1, 1990); Article 4 Heritage Trees secs. 12-2.401 to 12-2.405 (Council-designated trees); Article 5 secs. 12-2.501 to 12-2.503 (trees removed in anticipation of or during development)",
   "protected_trees": "Only the genus Quercus is regulated on private property: a 'Heritage Oak' is any oak (Valley Oak, California Live Oak, Black Oak, Blue Oak listed as examples) with a trunk or multiple trunk 36\" in circumference (approximately 12\" in diameter) at four feet above the root crown. Council-designated 'heritage trees' (any species, by resolution after a noticed hearing, Art. 4) may be removed only with City Council approval. Street trees in any street, park or public place need a permit under Art. 2. The Town page states 'No Tree Removal Permit is needed for other tree species.' A 2020 staff proposal (Exhibit A) to add a 94\" circumference 'Protected Tree' class and an exempt-species list was not adopted; the current eCode360 text contains Art. 3 only.",
   "threshold": "36\" circumference (approximately 12\" diameter) at 4 ft above the root crown, oaks (genus Quercus) only",
   "unit": "circumference",
   "measurement_height_in": 48,
   "multi_trunk": "The definition reads 'a trunk or multiple trunk 36 inches in circumference' (12-2.101); the code does not say whether multiple trunks are summed or measured individually. Treat an oak as a Heritage Oak if any trunk, or the trunks together, reach 36\" circumference at 4 ft and confirm with Planning. UNVERIFIED method.",
   "dead_hazard": "12-2.302(b): no removal permit is required when 'The City Manager (or designee) has determined that the Heritage Oak presents an immediate danger to persons or property. Persons believing a Heritage Oak presents an immediate danger should call Town Hall during normal business hours and 911 at all other times.' Dead, diseased-beyond-reclamation, hazardous or crowded oaks still need the permit, but the Town skips the neighbor notice (12-2.304) and, per the Tree Removal Permit page, waives the fee and issues the permit over the counter when the oak 'poses an immediate hazard and/or is dead and creating a fire hazard'. Fee schedule P025 'Hazardous Oak Tree Removal (Dead/Emergency/Defensible Space)': No Fee.",
   "fee": "Planning Department Master Fee Schedule (adopted June 18, 2026, effective August 1, 2026): P024 Oak Tree Removal (Volunteer) per request $814; P025 Hazardous Oak Tree Removal (Dead/Emergency/Defensible Space) per request No Fee; P026 Arborist Report Review: Actual Cost, $1,000 deposit ('collected when a peer review of an third party consulting arborist report is necessary'); P008 Appeal - Minimum Processing Fee $2,170 per appeal plus P008A additional processing at actual cost ($2,411 deposit). The Town's Tree Removal Permit page also states 'The fee for a Heritage Oak Tree Removal Permit is $814.00' and that the fee is waived for immediate-hazard or dead/fire-hazard oaks.",
   "fee_schedule_year": "FY 2026-27 (Planning Department Master Fee Schedule adopted June 18, 2026, effective August 1, 2026)",
   "penalty": "Article 3 contains no specific penalty; removing a Heritage Oak without a permit is a Municipal Code violation (fee schedule: violation fee 'per Municipal Code Section 10-2.1318, with the specific amount determined by the Planning and Building Director'). Trees removed in anticipation of development: Council may condition the project, including 'replacement of each tree removed or damaged by five 48 inch box trees' plus a multi-year maintenance bond (12-2.501); trees removed in violation of development conditions: stop-work order and a plan of restitution with up to five replacement trees per tree and a bond (12-2.502). Permit conditions may require up to five trees planted per oak removed (12-2.306).",
   "arborist_report_required": "conditional",
   "arborist_report_when": "Not required with the application. 12-2.303: 'If there is a disagreement regarding the condition of the Heritage Oak between the applicant and the Town, an arborist's opinion must be obtained at the expense of the applicant.' The Town page repeats this. Development reviews: the reviewing authority 'may require the developer to provide recommendations by an arborist' (12-2.502(a)); heritage-tree designation hearings may use a Town-paid arborist report (12-2.401). Fee schedule P026 charges actual cost ($1,000 deposit) when the Town peer-reviews a third-party arborist report.",
   "department": "Planning Department, Town of Los Altos Hills, 26379 Fremont Road, Los Altos Hills, CA 94022; (650) 941-7222; planning@losaltoshills.ca.gov; fax (650) 941-3160; Zoning Permit Application (fillable) and online permitting via eTRAKiT (trakit.losaltoshills.ca.gov)",
   "permit_service_tier": "A",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "expedited",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "The code has no fire clause, but the adopted 2026 fee schedule charges no fee for 'Hazardous Oak Tree Removal (Dead/Emergency/Defensible Space)' and the Town page says a dead Heritage Oak creating a fire hazard is permitted over the counter with the fee waived; the permit itself is still required unless the City Manager finds an immediate danger.",
   "last_verified": "2026-10-21",
   "sources": "https://ecode360.com/44000756 | https://ecode360.com/44000714 | https://ecode360.com/44000712 | https://ecode360.com/44000767 | https://ecode360.com/44000773 | https://www.losaltoshills.ca.gov/295/Tree-Removal-Permit | https://www.losaltoshills.ca.gov/393/Fee-Schedule | https://losaltoshills.ca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/8089/2026-Planning-Fee-Schedule | https://www.losaltoshills.ca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/7990/master-fee-schedule-redline | https://www.losaltoshills.ca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/622/Zoning-Permit-Application-Fillable-Form | https://www.losaltoshills.ca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/3980",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-los-altos-hills/"
  },
  {
   "city": "Los Gatos",
   "region": "South Bay",
   "code_section": "Town Code Ch. 29, Art. I, Div. 2 (secs. 29.10.0950-.1050)",
   "protected_trees": "Developed residential: 12\" dia single / 18\" multi-trunk sum. Developed HILLSIDE residential: 8\". Blue oak, black oak, CA buckeye, Pacific madrone: 8\" anywhere residential. Vacant/non-residential/development/public trees: 4\". Pruning permit: >25% of tree over 3-yr period, or any branch/root >4\"",
   "threshold": "12\"/8\"/4\" diameter tiers at 4.5 ft",
   "unit": "dbh",
   "measurement_height_in": 54,
   "multi_trunk": "18\" sum of trunk diameters (developed residential)",
   "dead_hazard": "Permit-free emergency ONLY for imminent danger w/ Tree Risk Rating Extreme/High: notify Parks & PW (business hrs) or Police (408) 354-8600 (after hrs), photos within 72 HOURS; dead trees otherwise need permit (replacement waived if dead/high-risk)",
   "fee": "FY 2026-27 Comprehensive Fee Schedule (effective July 1, 2026), Parks & Public Works 'Tree Related Fees': item 27 Tree Removal Permit Application One Tree $256.00; Additional Tree $128.00/each; 'If application is denied 50% refund'; fee waived if removal implements/maintains Defensible Space with supporting documentation; item 28 Illegal Tree Removal Administrative Fee $337.00; item 29 replacement trees (Town Forestry Fund) at market price plus installation. Previously $250/$125/$330. The 2025 application form (rev. June 28, 2025) also prints $256/$128; its attached FAQ text still says $250/$125 (internal inconsistency on the Town's own form).",
   "fee_schedule_year": "FY 2026-27 (effective July 1, 2026)",
   "penalty": "Civil up to $5,000/tree OR replacement value whichever HIGHER (4x value + staff costs if development-related) + remediation fines $500 first day/$1,000 per day + misdemeanor <=$1,000/6 mo (29.10.1025, .1031)",
   "arborist_report_required": "conditional",
   "arborist_report_when": "At the discretion of the Director/Town Arborist, typically after the initial Town inspection (Town Code 29.10.0980(4); application FAQ item 5: 'If required by the Town Arborist following initial inspection'). If removal is part of a development application, a copy of the associated tree report is required, and development applications affecting protected trees must include a Tree Survey Plan / Tree Preservation Report by a certified or consulting arborist (29.10.1000). If structural damage is the basis, a licensed architect/engineer report may also be required.",
   "department": "Parks & Public Works (Town Arborist) (408) 399-5770",
   "permit_service_tier": "A",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "exempt",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "A protected tree may be removed or severely pruned without a Town permit when the work is done to implement or maintain Defensible Space under Town Code Chapter 9 (Sec. 29.10.0970(3)), except blue oak, black oak, buckeye and madrone 8 inches or larger on developed residential lots and heritage or large protected trees, which need a permit supported by a Fire Chief direction finding (Sec. 29.10.0992(11)).",
   "last_verified": "2026-07-31",
   "sources": "https://library.municode.com/ca/los_gatos/codes/code_of_ordinances | https://library.municode.com/ca/los_gatos/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=CO_CH29ZORE_ARTIINGE_DIV2TRPR | https://permits.losgatosca.gov/Engineering/Apply-for-a-Tree-Permit | https://www.losgatosca.gov/2252/Private-Trees | https://www.losgatosca.gov/48/Parks-and-Public-Works | https://www.losgatosca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/40478/TreeRemovalApplication---Fillable | https://www.losgatosca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/46318/FY-26-27-Fee-Schedule",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-los-gatos/"
  },
  {
   "city": "Marin County (unincorporated)",
   "region": "Marin",
   "code_section": "Marin County Code Title 22 (Development Code) Ch. 22.27 Native Tree Protection and Preservation, secs. 22.27.010-22.27.090, and Ch. 22.62 Tree Removal Permits, secs. 22.62.010-22.62.050 (Ord. 3577, 2012; Ord. 3666, 2017); definitions of 'Protected Tree and Heritage Tree', 'Arborist', 'Native Tree Removal' and 'Vacant Lot' in Ch. 22.130 (Article VIII); Municode version May 28, 2026 (codified through Ord. 26-002, 2/24/2026)",
   "protected_trees": "Native species only, by a table of 37 taxa in 22.130.030 with a 'Protected Size' and a 'Heritage Size' (Diameter at Breast Height): 6\" protected / 18\" heritage for coast live oak, blue oak, California black oak, canyon live oak, chaparral (interior live) oak, Shreve oak, Oregon (Garry) oak, valley oak, Pacific madrone, Sargent cypress, and arroyo, narrow-leaved, red, Scouler's, shining and Sitka willows; 10\" protected / 30\" heritage for big-leaf maple, bishop pine, box elder, California bay, California buckeye, California nutmeg, coast redwood, Douglas-fir, giant chinquapin, hawthorn, mountain-mahogany, Oregon ash, Pacific yew, red alder, red elderberry, service-berry, silk tassel, tanbark oak, wax myrtle and white alder. Non-native trees are not regulated. Applies to 'protected and heritage trees' on improved and unimproved lots in the non-agricultural unincorporated areas (22.62.020); exempt on a developed lot: up to two protected trees in a one-year period, no heritage trees, none in a Stream or Wetland Conservation Area (22.62.040.J). The County fact sheet states the chapter does not apply in the Coastal Zone (a Coastal Permit may be required instead; fact sheet not opened, see unverified_fields).",
   "threshold": "6\" DBH (oaks, madrone, Sargent cypress, willows) or 10\" DBH (bay, redwood, Douglas-fir, maple, buckeye, alders and other listed natives) = protected; 18\" / 30\" DBH = heritage; native species only",
   "unit": "dbh",
   "measurement_height_in": 54,
   "multi_trunk": "None. Neither 22.130.030 nor Ch. 22.27/22.62 addresses multi-trunk measurement; the table uses 'Diameter at Breast Height' only.",
   "dead_hazard": "Exempt from the permit under 22.62.040 if the tree meets any one criterion: 'A. The general health of the tree is so poor due to disease, damage, or age that efforts to ensure its long-term health and survival are unlikely to be successful; B. The tree is infected by a pathogen or attacked by insects that threaten surrounding trees as determined by an arborist report or other qualified professional; C. The tree is a potential public health and safety hazard due to the risk of its falling and its structural instability cannot be remedied; D. The tree is a public nuisance by causing damage to improvements ... ; E. The tree has been identified by a Fire Inspector as a fire hazard'. The code adds: 'It is recommended that a property owner obtain a report from a licensed arborist or verify the status of the tree with photographs to document the applicability of the criteria'. No County pre-approval step is written into the exemption; the Director may later require a site plan or arborist's report to determine whether trees were removed in violation (22.27.080).",
   "fee": "UNVERIFIED. Fees are set by the Planning Division Fee Schedule adopted by the Board of Supervisors (current PDF: planningfeeschedule_accessible_v7_112024_0.pdf, November 2024, 0.24 MB), which lists a 'Planning Fee' per permit type plus a 10% surcharge on certain deposit-based fees and a Technology Fee; the schedule could not be read (assets.marincounty.gov returns 403 to fetchers, blocks cross-origin reads and triggers a download dialog in the browser). Fee page rules: fees are confirmed after review of the proposed application package and collected at acceptance; when a project needs more than one permit the most expensive is charged in full and the others at half the Planning Fee; DPW and Environmental Health fees may be added. Code in-lieu payment: $500.00 per replacement tree to the Tree Preservation Fund where on-site planting is infeasible (22.27.040).",
   "fee_schedule_year": "Planning Division Fee Schedule, November 2024 version (v7) as posted on the Planning Division Fees page (page updated December 23, 2024); dollar amount for a Tree Removal Permit not read",
   "penalty": "22.27.060: 'the Director may pursue an enforcement action in compliance with Chapter 22.122 (Enforcement of Development Code Provisions), and County Code Chapter 1.05 (Nuisance Abatement). The enforcement action may result in substantial fines for enforcement costs and civil penalties over and above any funds paid into the Tree Preservation Fund, the exact amount to be determined through the abatement process.' No per-tree fine schedule in the chapter; replacement at the Director's discretion (22.27.040) and in-lieu $500 per replacement tree.",
   "arborist_report_required": "conditional",
   "arborist_report_when": "Not mandated for a Tree Removal Permit application by Ch. 22.62 (applications follow Ch. 22.40 filing rules and the General Planning Permit Application). The code recommends one to document a 22.62.040 exemption: 'It is recommended that a property owner obtain a report from a licensed arborist or verify the status of the tree with photographs to document the applicability of the criteria listed above'; exemption B (pathogen or insect infestation threatening surrounding trees) applies 'as determined by an arborist report or other qualified professional'. The Director 'may conduct a site inspection and require a site plan or arborist's report to determine whether trees have been removed in violation of this chapter' (22.27.080). County decisions on design review/tree removal projects routinely rely on applicant arborist reports.",
   "department": "Marin County Community Development Agency, Planning Division, 3501 Civic Center Drive, Suite 308, San Rafael, CA 94903; Planning Customer Service Team (415) 473-6269; counter Mon-Thu 8:00 am-4:00 pm, Fri 8:00 am-12:00 pm; Tree Removal Permit applications 'are available online and at the Agency's public service counter' (22.62.030)",
   "permit_service_tier": "A",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "exempt",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "A protected or heritage tree 'identified by a Fire Inspector as a fire hazard' may be removed without a Tree Removal Permit (22.62.040.E); public-agency fuel-break work is also exempt (22.62.040.I), and replacement conditions defer to fire-district vegetation management requirements (22.27.040.A).",
   "last_verified": "2026-10-21",
   "sources": "https://library.municode.com/ca/marin_county/codes/municipal_code?nodeId=TIT22DECO_ARTIVLAUSDEPE_CH22.62TRREPE | https://library.municode.com/ca/marin_county/codes/municipal_code?nodeId=TIT22DECO_ARTIIISIPLGEDERE_CH22.27NATRPRPR | https://library.municode.com/ca/marin_county/codes/municipal_code?nodeId=TIT22DECO_ARTVIIIDECODE | https://library.municode.com/ca/marin_county/codes/municipal_code?nodeId=TIT22DECO | https://www.marincounty.gov/departments/cda/planning/planning-permits/dev-resources | https://www.marincounty.gov/departments/cda/planning/planning-permits/planning-division-fees | https://www.marincounty.gov/departments/cda/planning/planning-permits/general-planning-permit-application | https://assets.marincounty.gov/marincounty-prod/public/2024-03/treeremoval_fs.pdf | https://assets.marincounty.gov/marincounty-prod/public/2024-11/planningfeeschedule_accessible_v7_112024_0.pdf",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-marin-county/"
  },
  {
   "city": "Menlo Park",
   "region": "Peninsula",
   "code_section": "MPMC Ch. 13.24 (Heritage Trees)",
   "protected_trees": "Heritage: any non-oak 47.1\" circumference (15\" dia)+; any native California oak (genus Quercus) 31.4\" circ (10\" dia)+",
   "threshold": "47.1\" circ (15\") / oaks 31.4\" circ (10\"), at 54\" above natural grade",
   "unit": "circumference",
   "measurement_height_in": 54,
   "multi_trunk": "Measure diameter below main union; if union below grade, each stem = standalone tree; multi-trunk under 12 ft tall excluded (13.24.020)",
   "dead_hazard": "Removal criteria 1-4 (dead, high/extreme risk, decline, invasive) decided on application; only APPLICANT may appeal (to City Manager, 15 days); no neighbor notice for homeowner cases",
   "fee": "FY 26-27: $542/tree (first 3), $270 each addl",
   "fee_schedule_year": "FY 2026-27 (Master Fee Schedule July 14, 2026)",
   "penalty": "Up to $5,000 per tree OR tree value, whichever HIGHER (13.24.100 + fee resolution); replacement per trunk-diameter matrix or in-lieu to heritage tree fund",
   "arborist_report_required": "yes",
   "arborist_report_when": "Every nondevelopment heritage tree removal/significant-pruning permit: Step 1 and Step 2 of the city application require an arborist report from a city-approved consulting arborist written within the last 12 months, stating the primary removal criterion. Exception: 'If the heritage tree is dead or is an invasive species ... the applicant may submit pictures and label it as an arborist report.' Development-related permits, work within 10x trunk diameter, or 4+ trees trigger the full Arborist Report Checklist for Large Projects (PW rev 20230605). Code basis: 13.24.050(a) permits 'pursuant to procedures established by the public works director'; 13.24.030(c) tree protection plan 'prepared by a city-approved certified arborist.'",
   "department": "Public Works, City Arborist: heritage permits (650) 330-6764; arborist (650) 330-6760",
   "permit_service_tier": "B",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "none",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "Menlo Park's heritage tree ordinance has no fire provision; removal without a permit is allowed only when a heritage tree is imminently hazardous and the police chief, fire chief or public works director orders it (MPMC 13.24.040), and permits are granted on death, ISA high/extreme risk, health, species, development or utility grounds (13.24.050(a)).",
   "last_verified": "2026-07-31",
   "sources": "https://aca-prod.accela.com/menlopark/Default.aspx | https://ecode360.com/47074285 | https://menlopark.gov/Government/Departments/Public-Works/Maintenance-Division/Trees/City-approved-consulting-arborists-list | https://www.codepublishing.com/CA/MenloPark/html/MenloPark13/MenloPark1324.html | https://www.menlopark.gov/Government/Departments/Public-Works/Maintenance-Division/Trees/Heritage-tree-removalpruning-permit-for-nondevelopment | https://www.menlopark.gov/files/sharedassets/public/v/2/administrative-services/documents/finance/master-fee-schedule/2026-approved-master-fee-schedule-effective-july-14.pdf | https://www.menlopark.gov/files/sharedassets/public/v/2/public-works/documents/heritage-trees/heritage-tree-appeal-form_20260914.pdf | https://www.menlopark.gov/files/sharedassets/public/v/3/public-works/documents/heritage-trees/20210921-heritage-tree-removal-acknowledgement-and-property-owner-authorization-_pdf.pdf",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-menlo-park/"
  },
  {
   "city": "Mill Valley",
   "region": "Marin",
   "code_section": "MVMC Ch. 20.67 (Trees on Privately Owned Property, Ord. 1291)",
   "protected_trees": "Heritage (4 species by circumference): tanbark oak 65\"; oak (Quercus) 75\"; madrone 75\"; coast redwood 95\" (+ Council-designated). Non-heritage triggers: 4+ trees >19\" circ (~6\") removed per 12 months on developed parcels; any tree >12.5\" circ (~4\") on vacant parcels; removal includes >1/3 foliage in 12 months",
   "threshold": "Heritage: 65-95\" circumference by species, at 4.5 ft",
   "unit": "circumference",
   "measurement_height_in": 54,
   "multi_trunk": "Per circumference definitions",
   "dead_hazard": "Arborist report required when removal reason is death/disease/health (20.67.040); heritage removals need noticed Zoning Administrator public hearing; city-published processing 'up to 30 days'",
   "fee": "Tree Removal: Heritage Tree - Regular $1,401 per tree; Heritage Tree - Diseased (e.g., sudden oak death) $119 per tree; Non-Heritage Tree Removal $119 per tree; Peer Review (Arborist Report) $580 per tree; Planning hourly rate $185. No Southern Marin Fire District fee on tree permits (N/A). Input said 'amount unverified'.",
   "fee_schedule_year": "2026 Planning Division Fee Schedule, Effective July 1, 2026 (FY 2026-27)",
   "penalty": "Minimum $1,000/tree (non-heritage) / $5,000/tree (heritage) or replacement value whichever GREATER, doubled for repeat within 24 months (20.67.250); heritage replacement: 3 trees per 6\" of diameter (min 24\" box, Marin native, 60 days); illegal non-heritage: 3:1",
   "arborist_report_required": "yes",
   "arborist_report_when": "Current Planning Department 'Supplemental Application for Tree Removal Permit' lists an Arborist Report as Application Requirement #3 for every private-property tree removal permit. The code itself is narrower: MVMC 20.67.040 mandates a certified-arborist tree report only when the removal reason is (a) public health/safety due to the tree's death or disease, or (b) to enhance the health of the subject or adjacent trees; 20.67.090 adds 'Prior to making a determination on a tree removal permit, the City may require a tree report.' City may peer-review the applicant's report via its consultant (Urban Forestry Associates) at applicant cost ($580/tree).",
   "department": "Planning & Building (415) 388-4033; public trees: Public Works Parks (12.04.040)",
   "permit_service_tier": "C",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "approval-ground",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "Removing a tree 'to protect the public health and safety by reducing or eliminating fire danger' is one of the findings on which the city may grant the normal tree removal permit (MVMC 20.67.090(A)); there is no fire exemption, and only an immediate-threat tree can be removed on an emergency permit.",
   "last_verified": "2026-07-31",
   "sources": "https://ecode360.com/44318782 | https://www.cityofmillvalley.gov/238/Planning | https://www.cityofmillvalley.gov/674/Tree-Removal | https://www.cityofmillvalley.gov/DocumentCenter/View/12313 | https://www.cityofmillvalley.gov/DocumentCenter/View/12315 | https://www.cityofmillvalley.gov/DocumentCenter/View/3401 | https://www.cityofmillvalley.gov/DocumentCenter/View/6391",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-mill-valley/"
  },
  {
   "city": "Milpitas",
   "region": "South Bay",
   "code_section": "MMC Title X, Ch. 2 (Tree Maintenance and Protection)",
   "protected_trees": "Developed residential: 56\" circumference (17.8\" dia). Commercial/industrial, vacant/undeveloped, development-approval sites: 37\" circ (11.8\"). Heritage: any size/species by Council resolution. Street trees protected",
   "threshold": "56\"/37\" circumference at 4.5 ft (taut tape)",
   "unit": "circumference",
   "measurement_height_in": 54,
   "multi_trunk": "Any trunk meeting circumference (X-2-7.01)",
   "dead_hazard": "Only exception to prior approval: emergency = imminent threat of injury (X-2-5.01); dead tree alone NOT exempt",
   "fee": "FY 2025-26 User and Regulatory Fee Schedule (Planning item 41): Tree Removal $263 (up from $256) - the figure still current as of 2026-10-09. FY 2026-27 'Schedule of User and Regulatory Fees, Effective November 2, 2026' (Planning item 45): Tree Removal $413. The FY 2026-27 Permit and Development Fee Summary (effective August 3, 2026, updated 9/4/2026) describes the Tree Removal Permit Fee as a flat fee paid at submittal but prints no amount and refers to 'Page 26 of User and Regulatory Fee Schedule'. Could not locate any schedule effective 8/3/2026 that lists $263, so the input's '$263 (adopted schedule eff. 8/3/2026)' should read: $263 per FY 2025-26 schedule; rises to $413 on 11/2/2026.",
   "fee_schedule_year": "FY 2026-27 (effective November 2, 2026); FY 2025-26 figure ($263) applies until then",
   "penalty": "City cost recovery: ISA-appraised value (Guide for Plant Appraisal) + abatement costs; liens at 8% interest (X-2-9.01, X-2-13.02); replacement >=2:1 (X-2-4.02)",
   "arborist_report_required": "yes",
   "arborist_report_when": "For every protected-tree removal on private property, per the Planning Department's Tree Removal Checklist ('Landscape Professional Memo' covering species, approximate size, circumference at breast height, health/status, and reason for removal). The code itself (Title X Ch. 2, version Aug 4, 2026) contains no arborist-report requirement; it only requires ISA-certified appraisal for cost recovery after unlawful removal (X-2-9.01(b)).",
   "department": "Public Works administers (408) 586-2600; private removals filed via Planning (408) 586-3279",
   "permit_service_tier": "A",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "none",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "Milpitas' ordinance has no fire provision; the only exception to prior Public Works Director approval is an emergency defined as an imminent threat of injury to persons or property (MMC X-2-5.01).",
   "last_verified": "2026-07-31",
   "sources": "https://library.municode.com/ca/milpitas/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=TITXSTSI_CH2TRMAPR | https://www.milpitas.gov/375/Applications-Forms | https://www.milpitas.gov/639/Tree-Maintenance-Removal | https://www.milpitas.gov/DocumentCenter/View/10801/Fee-Schedule---Effective-2026-11-02 | https://www.milpitas.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1219",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-milpitas/"
  },
  {
   "city": "Monte Sereno",
   "region": "South Bay",
   "code_section": "Monte Sereno Municipal Code Title 10, Ch. 10.15 (Tree Preservation), secs. 10.15.010-10.15.090 (Ord. NS-217, 12-18-2018; amended Ord. NS-228 12-21-2021, NS-229 1-4-2022, NS-240 11-7-2023; Municode version Feb 18, 2026)",
   "protected_trees": "Significant tree: (1) oaks or redwoods with circumference greater than 20\" at 48\" above natural grade; (2) any other species with circumference greater than 25\" at 48\" above natural grade. Dead trees (certified-arborist determination) and 'unsuitable trees' (blue gum and red gum eucalyptus, black acacia, tree of heaven, tulip tree, all palms, privet, Monterey pine, fruit trees, on lots used for a dwelling) still need a permit but are decided by staff with no fee; every other significant-tree removal needs a Site and Architecture Commission permit after a noticed hearing. Trees below the size tiers need no permit.",
   "threshold": "oaks/redwoods >20\" circumference; any other tree >25\" circumference, at 48\" above natural grade",
   "unit": "circumference",
   "measurement_height_in": 48,
   "multi_trunk": "None. 10.15.015(A) defines a significant tree by a single circumference measurement and the chapter contains no multi-trunk or aggregate provision.",
   "dead_hazard": "Permit still required for dead trees and unsuitable species, but decided by the City Manager or City Planner at staff level with a written decision and no fee (10.15.040, 10.15.050(D), application form). 'Dead tree' must be determined by a certified arborist during a non-dormant stage (10.15.015(B)). Emergency exception only when a significant tree is hazardous or dangerous to life or property AND removal 'has been approved by order of the City Manager or the Manager's designee' (10.15.020(A)); the July 2024 brochure routes hazardous/dangerous trees to staff review. Hazardous Tree Removal Rebate: up to 50% of removal cost, max $1,000, one per parcel, WUI parcels only, listed fire-hazard species at least 25\" circumference at 4 ft, after a permit is approved and before removal (rebate application 7/2024).",
   "fee": "Staff-reviewed Tree Removal Permit (dead, unsuitable, hazardous/emergency, or removals tied to an SB9/ADU-type project): no fee. 'Significant Tree Removal (referred to Site and Architecture Commission)': $100 (Master Fee Schedule, Planning Fees item 3, effective August 18, 2025). Appeal $360 (Planning item 17). 'Work Commenced without a Permit': 1x base permit fee in addition (double fees). Schedule note: fees exclude the cost of external reports such as an arborist report, which the applicant pays. Code 10.15.080: unlawful removal requires a permit at double the application fee.",
   "fee_schedule_year": "Master Fee Schedule effective August 18, 2025 (current as of 2026-10-12)",
   "penalty": "Citation of $1,000 for removing a significant tree without a permit; the violator must then obtain a permit at double the application fee; plus replacement with one or more trees of equivalent aesthetic quality, or, where replacement cannot match, a cash payment of the tree's value under the CTLA Guide plus planting cost (collectible as a debt to the City) (10.15.080). Master Fee Schedule: work commenced without a permit pays an additional 1x base fee.",
   "arborist_report_required": "conditional",
   "arborist_report_when": "At the City's discretion. 10.15.060: when removal is sought because of disease, danger of falling, threat to the owner or neighbours, or because the tree is dead, 'the City may require, at the cost of the applicant for the permit, an inspection and evaluation of any tree or trees proposed to be removed by an arborist who has been prequalified by the City', who prepares a written report on condition and remedial measures. A dead-tree finding itself must be made by a certified arborist (10.15.015(B)). For unsuitable trees the City may require verification of species. Site Development Permit applications that remove a significant tree or encroach on a drip line must include 'a report from a certified arborist' (SDP Tree Removal Submittal Requirements, 10/2022). The stand-alone Tree Removal Permit Application (7/2024) lists no report item.",
   "department": "Planning Department, City Hall, 18041 Saratoga-Los Gatos Road, Monte Sereno 95030; (408) 354-7635; CityPlanner@cityofmontesereno.org; applications online at https://epermits.montesereno.org/",
   "permit_service_tier": "A",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "none",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "Monte Sereno's ordinance has no fire exemption; the code exempts only emergency removals approved by order of the City Manager (MSMC 10.15.020(A)), gives dead and 'unsuitable' species (blue gum, red gum, black acacia, tree of heaven, tulip tree, palms, privet, Monterey pine, fruit trees) a staff-level permit, and the City separately offers a Hazardous Tree Removal Rebate for fire-hazard species in the WUI.",
   "last_verified": "2026-10-12",
   "sources": "https://library.municode.com/ca/monte_sereno/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=MUCO_TIT10PLZO_CH10.15TRPR | https://www.montesereno.org/DocumentCenter/View/4116/Tree-Removal-Permit-Information | https://www.montesereno.org/DocumentCenter/View/4119/Tree-Removal-Permit-Application | https://www.montesereno.org/DocumentCenter/View/4117/Hazardous-Tree-Removal-Rebate-Application | https://www.montesereno.org/DocumentCenter/View/3737/Tree-Removal-Submittal-Requirements-for-Site-and-Architectural-Commission-Hearings | https://www.montesereno.org/DocumentCenter/View/4287/Master-Fee-Schedule-Effective-8-18-2025",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-monte-sereno/"
  },
  {
   "city": "Moraga",
   "region": "Contra Costa",
   "code_section": "MMC Title 12, Chapter 12.12 Tree Preservation, secs. 12.12.010-12.12.170 (Ord. 182 sec. 2, 2000; Ord. 256, 10/14/2015; Municode version June 1, 2026)",
   "protected_trees": "A 'tree' is a live woody plant with a single trunk diameter of 5\" or more measured 3 ft above natural grade, or multiple trunks with a total perimeter of 40\" or more measured 3 ft above natural grade (12.12.020). Four classes: general, native, orchard, historic. A permit is required only to cut down, destroy or remove a NATIVE tree (native to California and indigenous to the Moraga area; 'the most common being the bay, oak, redwood, toyan and the knobcone pine'; the Planning Department's Native Tree List has 48 taxa including big leaf maple, box elder, buckeye, alders, madrone, chinquapin, ashes, Sargent cypress, black walnut, knobcone/Coulter/gray pine, sycamore, cottonwoods, cherries, 11 oaks, willows, elderberries, coast redwood, California bay), an ORCHARD tree (fruit or nut trees planted for commercial agricultural purposes) or a tree of HISTORIC SIGNIFICANCE designated by the Town Council (12.12.030). Exempt: general (non-native) trees on residentially zoned property; any tree located five feet or closer to a structure; right-of-way trees deemed a hazard by the Public Works Director or Town Manager.",
   "threshold": "5\" trunk diameter at 3 ft (36\") above natural grade, or multi-trunk total perimeter 40\" at 3 ft; native, orchard and Council-designated historic trees only",
   "unit": "dbh",
   "measurement_height_in": 36,
   "multi_trunk": "12.12.020: a tree 'having multiple trunks' qualifies with 'a total perimeter of forty (40) inches or more measured three feet above the natural grade' (sum of trunk circumferences at 3 ft).",
   "dead_hazard": "12.12.050 Emergency tree removal: 'In case of emergency caused by a tree being in a hazardous, dangerous or diseased condition requiring immediate action for the safety of structures or human life, such tree may be removed on the oral permission of the town manager or the staff person designated by the town manager, without formal application.' The Town Manager may also order removal of such a tree at the owner's expense on the recommendation of the planning, parks or public works director. Dead or diseased native trees that are not an immediate emergency go through the normal permit; the Planning Director decides on tree condition and 'may require an arborist report if the health and/or safety of a tree is in question' (12.12.040). Any tree within 5 ft of a structure is exempt (12.12.030(B)).",
   "fee": "FY 2025-26 & FY 2026-27 Master Fee Schedule (effective August 11, 2025), Planning Department: Tree Removal Permit $280 per tree; Tree Removal Fine $1,115 per tree; Appeal of Town Manager Decision regarding Tree Removal Permit $230 flat fee. 'A 10% Advanced Planning Surcharge is applied to all Planning's Staff Services and all Flat Fees.' Application form: all credit card transactions incur a 4% processing fee; no application is deemed submitted until the fee is received. Code 12.12.130 still states a $150 appeal fee to the Town Council (fee schedule $230 governs in practice).",
   "fee_schedule_year": "FY 2025-26 and FY 2026-27 (Master Fee Schedule effective August 11, 2025)",
   "penalty": "12.12.150(B): 'A person who violates the provisions of Section 12.12.030 shall be subject to an administrative fine not exceeding one thousand dollars ($1,000.00) for each tree removed without obtaining the proper permit, and may be required to plant replacement trees in a ratio determined by the planning director.' Master Fee Schedule: Tree Removal Fine $1,115 per tree. Violations may also be prosecuted under Ch. 1.28 administrative citations, other civil and criminal remedies (12.12.150(C)), nuisance abatement under Ch. 7.16, and 12.12.170 misdemeanor (which cross-references the repealed 12.12.160).",
   "arborist_report_required": "conditional",
   "arborist_report_when": "Code: 'The planning director may require an arborist report if the health and/or safety of a tree is in question.' (12.12.040). Development: 'When proposed developments or construction may encroach into the dripline of any regulated tree, an arborist report shall be prepared.' (12.12.070); Town FAQ: a pool within the dripline of a native tree over 5\" diameter at 3 ft needs an arborist report. The Tree Removal Permit Supplemental Application lists 'Arborist Report' with Site Plan and Photographs under 'Required Supporting Information (include as separate attachments)' as checkbox items, so staff may treat it as a standard attachment; confirm with Planning before filing without one.",
   "department": "Town of Moraga Planning Department, 329 Rheem Boulevard, Moraga, CA 94556; (925) 888-7040; planning@moraga.ca.us; fax (925) 376-5203",
   "permit_service_tier": "A",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "none",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "Chapter 12.12 has no fire-hazard exemption or criterion; only the emergency clause (immediate danger to structures or life, oral Town Manager permission) and the exemption for any tree within five feet of a structure apply.",
   "last_verified": "2026-10-21",
   "sources": "https://library.municode.com/ca/moraga/codes/municipal_code?nodeId=MOCA_TIT12STSIPUPL_CH12.12TRPR | https://www.moraga.ca.us/DocumentCenter/View/9101/Tree-Removal-Application-PDF | https://www.moraga.ca.us/454/Application-Forms | https://www.moraga.ca.us/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/302 | https://www.moraga.ca.us/Archive.aspx?AMID=41 | https://www.moraga.ca.us/FAQ.aspx?QID=124 | https://www.moraga.ca.us/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/246",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-moraga/"
  },
  {
   "city": "Mountain View",
   "region": "South Bay",
   "code_section": "City Code Ch. 32, Art. II (Heritage Trees, secs. 32.22-32.39)",
   "protected_trees": "Heritage: any Quercus (oak), Sequoia (redwood), or Cedrus (cedar) at 12\" CIRCUMFERENCE (3.8\" dia); ALL other species at 48\" circ (15.3\" dia)",
   "threshold": "12\" circ (heritage 3 genera) / 48\" circ (all species), at 54\" above natural grade",
   "unit": "circumference",
   "measurement_height_in": 54,
   "multi_trunk": "Per circumference standard",
   "dead_hazard": "DEAD trees (City Arborist determination): EXEMPT from permit (32.27(b)(6)). Living hazardous: NOT exempt unless disaster-damaged + declared by designated officials (5-day notice); otherwise secure area pending permit (32.36)",
   "fee": "Urban Forestry Permit fee (effective July 1, 2026): $178 and $61 per additional tree at the same address - unchanged from input. Planning Permit fee (effective August 22, 2026): $5,409 - changed from $5,132. Appeal of a City Arborist decision $350 (to Urban Forestry Board). Timelines confirmed: Urban Forestry up to 45 days after fee payment; Planning 60 to 90 days (Administrative Zoning hearing).",
   "fee_schedule_year": "FY 2026-27 (Urban Forestry eff. 7/1/2026; Planning eff. 8/22/2026)",
   "penalty": "Misdemeanor (Charter s520, max $1,000) + restitution: 24\"-box replacements or ISA-valued in-lieu + post-removal permit (32.38-.39); standard replacement 2:1 or in-lieu",
   "arborist_report_required": "conditional",
   "arborist_report_when": "Required only for applications routed to the Planning Division: Heritage tree removal as part of a development permit on a nonresidential or multifamily site, or removal of 4 or more Heritage trees on any multifamily/nonresidential property. Applications routed to Urban Forestry (dead/fallen trees on any property; single-family/duplex removals with or without construction; 3 or fewer trees on multifamily/nonresidential sites with no construction) list no arborist report - the application needs number, species, size, location, reason and owner signature, and a City Arborist inspects (typically within 2 weeks of payment).",
   "department": "Community Services, Urban Forestry (650) 903-6273, trees@mountainview.gov (Planning 650-903-6306 for development)",
   "permit_service_tier": "A",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "none",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "Mountain View's ordinance has no defensible-space exemption; a heritage tree may be removed without a permit only if a disaster has damaged it and an officer declares it dangerous (owner notifies the director within five days), if firefighters actively fighting a fire require it, or if the city arborist has determined it is dead (City Code 32.27(b)).",
   "last_verified": "2026-07-31",
   "sources": "https://developmentpermits.mountainview.gov/about-permits/planning-permit-applications | https://developmentpermits.mountainview.gov/residential/trees/heritage-tree-removal | https://library.municode.com/ca/mountain_view/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=PTIITHCO_CH32TRSHPL_ARTIIPRURFO_S32.30PENOLARE | https://library.municode.com/ca/mountain_view/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=PTIITHCO_CH32TRSHPL_ARTIIPRURFO_S32.31AP | https://mountainview-ca-us.avolvecloud.com/ | https://www.mountainview.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/184/638151574366430000 | https://www.mountainview.gov/our-city/departments/community-services/urban-forest/contact-us",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-mountain-view/"
  },
  {
   "city": "Novato",
   "region": "Marin",
   "code_section": "NMC Ch. XVII Trees and Shrubs, 17-1 Regulating Alteration or Removal of Trees on Private Property (Ord. 1441; Ord. 1576, 2012); 17-4 Violations; Zoning Division 19.39 Woodland and Tree Preservation (development)",
   "protected_trees": "Any species, native or non-native: 'heritage tree' = major trunk or trunks of 24 inches diameter (75 inches circumference) or more measured 24 inches above existing grade, or a Council-designated tree of special historical association, protected on every parcel; on 'undeveloped parcels' (any lot that can be further subdivided or developed, or has no primary structure) any 'tree' of 6 inches diameter (19 inches circumference) or more at 24 inches above grade also needs a permit. Dead or fallen trees and agency Sudden Oak Death control work are exempt. Pyrophytes (Monterey pine, bishop pine, acacia and eucalyptus species) still need the permit but the Director may skip notice and the appeal period. Native trees and woodlands in development projects are covered by 19.39 (75 percent retention, 3:1 replacement).",
   "threshold": "24\" diameter (75\" circumference) any species on any parcel (heritage tree) / 6\" diameter (19\" circumference) any tree on undeveloped parcels, at 24\" above existing grade",
   "unit": "dbh",
   "measurement_height_in": 24,
   "multi_trunk": "Not stated: both definitions say 'a major trunk or trunks of a diameter of' the threshold, which does not say whether trunks are measured singly or combined (17-1.2(c), (e)); confirm with Planning",
   "dead_hazard": "Dead or fallen trees are exempt: 'These provisions do not apply to trees which are dead or fallen or to activities undertaken or authorized by local, state and federal agencies to control sudden death oak syndrome or other similar vectors' (17-1.3). Dying, diseased or substantially damaged trees that imminently threaten health, safety or property, verified in writing by a licensed tree surgeon, certified arborist, landscape architect or similar professional, get the permit immediately without public notice or appeal period (17-1.4(e)(1)).",
   "fee": "Set in the City's Master Fee Schedule (the Tree Removal Guide says 'Filing fee (see the City's Master Fee Schedule for current rates)'); a Cost Recovery Form is required when removing more than 5 trees. Amount not verified: the Master Fee Schedule and the Tree Removal Informational Handout are served from novato.gov/novato.org 'showdocument' links that return 403 'Access Denied' to scripted fetching and open as a file download in the browser, and the Nov 19, 2024 fee-update staff report (7 pp.) lists no tree line.",
   "fee_schedule_year": "City of Novato Master Fee Schedule, adopted by Resolution No. 2022-059 (May 24, 2022), updated effective February 1, 2025 (Council hearing November 19, 2024), CPI-adjustable each July 1; tree permit amount not read",
   "penalty": "Violation of Ch. XVII is an infraction punishable as specified in 1-5.1 (17-4.1); citations may be issued by the Community Development Director or designee with police assistance (17-4.2). No appraisal-based penalty or replacement formula for private trees; 19.39.040(G) development projects: replacement not less than 3:1.",
   "arborist_report_required": "yes",
   "arborist_report_when": "Every tree permit application in practice: the Planning Division's Tree Removal Guide lists 'Arborist Letter - a signed letter from a certified arborist describing the tree's condition, reason for removal, and professional recommendation' among the required supporting materials for every submittal. The code is permissive: 17-1.4(a) 'The director may also require documentation from a licensed tree surgeon, certified arborist, landscape architect or similarly licensed professional as to the health, quality and desirability of the tree or trees in question'. Written professional verification is what lets the Director waive notice and the appeal period for a dying, diseased or damaged hazard tree (17-1.4(e)(1)).",
   "department": "Community Development Department, Planning Division, 922 Machin Avenue, Novato 94945; (415) 899-8989, planning@novato.gov; tree permits issued Monday-Thursday 9-11 a.m.; applications through the Novato Permits online portal (preferred) or in person; the Community Development Director decides (Planning Commission hearing if of sufficient public concern); appeals to the City Council",
   "permit_service_tier": "A",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "expedited",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "A permit is still required, but for a pyrophyte (Monterey pine, bishop pine, acacia or eucalyptus species) the Director may waive public notice and the 10-day appeal period and issue the permit immediately (NMC 17-1.4(e)(2)), and no notice is needed for removals already covered by an approved fire management plan (17-1.4(f)).",
   "last_verified": "2026-10-21",
   "sources": "https://library.municode.com/ca/novato/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=CHXVIITRSH | https://library.municode.com/ca/novato/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=CHXIXZO_ART3SIPLGEDEST_DIV19.39WOTRPR | https://library.municode.com/ca/novato/codes/code_of_ordinances | https://www.novato.gov/government/community-development/planning-division | https://www.novato.gov/government/community-development/planning-division/tree-removal-guide | https://www.novato.gov/government/community-development/master-fee-schedule | https://novato.granicus.com/services/legistar/download/pdf/2984540/cc24-180_Master_Fee_Schedule_Update.pdf",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-novato/"
  },
  {
   "city": "Oakland",
   "region": "East Bay",
   "code_section": "OMC Ch. 12.36 (Protected Trees); OMC 13.16 (creek protection)",
   "protected_trees": "Coast live oak (Quercus agrifolia) ONLY: 4\" DBH. ANY other species (native or not): 9\" DBH, EXCEPT eucalyptus (entire genus) and Monterey pine exempt (Monterey pine: protected on city property & development removals >5/acre; posting+notice still required)",
   "threshold": "4\" DBH (CLO) / 9\" DBH (others), at 4.5 ft",
   "unit": "dbh",
   "measurement_height_in": 54,
   "multi_trunk": "Per DBH definition",
   "dead_hazard": "Only immediate-threat emergency allows removal without permit, report by NEXT BUSINESS DAY (12.36.130); dead-but-stable tree still needs permit; narrow exemptions 12.36.140",
   "fee": "FY 26-27 (eff. 7/1/2026): $579.06 non-development (1-10 trees); $747.81 development; + ~14.75% technology surcharge; decision within 20 working days of application (12.36.080(K)) after >=20-working-day comment period",
   "fee_schedule_year": "FY 2026-27 (effective July 1, 2026)",
   "penalty": "INFRACTION + replacement trees/fees NOT TO EXCEED ISA-appraised value + full investigation/enforcement costs (lien-backed) (12.36.150); generic admin civil penalties cap $1,000/day, $365,000/yr/parcel (OMC 1.08.060.B). Claremont case: $915,135.40 TOTAL for 38 trees (Res. 91118 C.M.S.), not per-tree",
   "arborist_report_required": "no",
   "arborist_report_when": "Not required by OMC 12.36.080(C) (non-development) or 12.36.090 (development): applicant submits a site plan showing location, species and dbh of protected trees plus a written compliance certification; the City Tree Reviewer evaluates (e.g., 12.36.050(B)(4) value 'measured by the Tree Reviewer using the criteria established by the International Society of Arboriculture'). The only 'arborist' mention in Ch. 12.36 is the Monterey pine removal notice. Department application page makes no mention of an arborist report.",
   "department": "Public Works, Tree Services Division: treeremovalpermits@oaklandca.gov, (510) 615-5934 (Online Permit Center)",
   "permit_service_tier": "B",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "approval-ground",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "Fire safety is not an exemption in Oakland; the city may grant the normal tree removal permit where removal is necessary to protect public health and safety from a 'potential hazard to life or property' or to implement S-11 vegetation management prescriptions (OMC 12.36.050(A)(1), (A)(5)), and eucalyptus and Monterey pine are not protected at all.",
   "last_verified": "2026-07-31",
   "sources": "https://aca-prod.accela.com/OAKLAND/customization/common/launchpad.aspx | https://library.municode.com/ca/oakland/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=TIT12STSIPUPL_CH12.36PRTR | https://www.oaklandca.gov/Community/Parks-Facilities/Tree-Services/Tree-Removal-Permit-Application | https://www.oaklandca.gov/files/assets/city/v/2/finance/documents/financial-reporting/master-fee-schedules/fiscal-year-2026-27-adopted-mfs.pdf",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-oakland/"
  },
  {
   "city": "Orinda",
   "region": "Contra Costa",
   "code_section": "OMC Ch. 17.21 (Tree Management; through Ord. 25-07, 1/13/2026)",
   "protected_trees": "Developed parcels: 7 native oak species (valley, coast live, black, white/Garry, canyon, blue, interior live) >=12\" dia. Vacant/undeveloped or downtown districts: ANY tree >=6\" (unless Disallowed Plant List). Native riparian: 4\" single (or multi-trunk combined cross-section = 4\" stem). Restitution & condition-of-approval trees any size",
   "threshold": "12\" (oaks, developed) / 6\" (any, vacant/downtown) / 4\" (riparian), at 4.5 ft",
   "unit": "dbh",
   "measurement_height_in": 54,
   "multi_trunk": "Riparian: combined cross-sectional area equal to single 4\" stem",
   "dead_hazard": "Exceptions incl. hazardous/dangerous condition requiring immediate action; emergency removals when ordered by fire official, PW Director, Parks Director or City Manager; insurance-required removals EXEMPT from permit entirely (Ord. 25-03, 5/6/2025: 17.21.3.B.7)",
   "fee": "Tree Removal Permit: First Tree (including Heritage Tree) $197.00; Each Additional Tree $63.00; Replacement with tree removal permit per OMC 17.21.5.F.2 $125.00/tree; Restitution for trees removed in violation $1,179.00/tree; marked '+' = 10% General Plan Update surcharge plus Permit Technology Fee surcharge apply. (Application form PDF, dated 07/2023 page, still shows the older $194/$62 + 13% surcharge.) Emergency Tree Removal Letter: no fee.",
   "fee_schedule_year": "FY 2026-27 Adopted Master Fee Schedule, Resolution No. 28-26, effective 7/1/2026",
   "penalty": "Title 19: infractions $100/$250/$500; misdemeanor <=$1,000/6 mo; admin civil penalties (default $1,000/violation, each day separate); restitution: TWO 24\"-box trees per 6\" of removed trunk diameter or in-lieu $1,179/tree (17.21.8-.9)",
   "arborist_report_required": "yes",
   "arborist_report_when": "City application form and July 2026 Tree Ordinance Handout list an Arborist Report as a submittal requirement for every Tree Removal Permit (both Type I standalone and Type II development-associated). Code text itself is softer: OMC 17.21.4.B says the application 'shall contain other supplemental information as may be necessary ... such as the written recommendation of a professional arborist', and 17.21.4.D decision factors reference 'evidence from a certified arborist' and 'as determined by an arborist report'. Emergency Tree Removal Letter (permit exemption, no fee) also requires a certified arborist determination of imminent danger (city FAQ). Development near protected trees: arborist report/recommendation required when grading or construction is within 10 ft of a protected tree's dripline (handout).",
   "department": "Planning Department (925) 253-4210",
   "permit_service_tier": "A",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "exempt",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "No tree permit is needed when the removal is required by the Moraga-Orinda Fire District for Fire Code compliance, ordered by a fire official in an emergency, or required to obtain or keep insurance, provided the fire district's or insurer's documentation is given to the Planning Department (OMC 17.21.3.B.2, B.5, B.7).",
   "last_verified": "2026-10-09",
   "sources": "OMC 17.21 (through Ord. 25-07); cityoforinda.gov | https://cityoforinda.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1000/Tree-Removal-Permit-Application | https://library.municode.com/ca/orinda/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=TIT17ZO_CH17.21TRMA | https://www.cityoforinda.gov/153/Planning-Department | https://www.cityoforinda.gov/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/193 | https://www.cityoforinda.org/527/Application-Submittal | https://www.cityoforinda.org/DocumentCenter/View/3475",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-orinda/"
  },
  {
   "city": "Pacifica",
   "region": "Peninsula",
   "code_section": "PMC Title 4, Ch. 12 Tree Preservation (Ord. 884-C.S., eff. Oct 12, 2022)",
   "protected_trees": "Protected tree: any species with a trunk 12\" DBH or greater on public or private property (4-12.02(n)(1)); heritage trees: coast live oak, valley oak, California buckeye, Monterey pine and coast redwood 12\" DBH or more, toyon 4\" DBH or more, plus Director-designated trees (4-12.08); groves (natural cluster of 10 or more trees of any species, minimum 6\" diameter) protected as a group. Eucalyptus and Cal-IPC invasive species are not protected except in groves or as the Director determines. Street/ROW and City trees are regulated under Ch. 14 (Public Works).",
   "threshold": "12\" DBH any species (toyon 4\" DBH; grove trees 6\"), at 4.5 ft / 54\" above grade",
   "unit": "dbh",
   "measurement_height_in": 54,
   "multi_trunk": "Multi-stemmed trees shall be measured by averaging the diameters of the stems (4-12.02(e))",
   "dead_hazard": "No dead-tree exemption: 'The Director or the Director's appointed City staff will assess the need for a permit related to dead/dying tree(s)' (4-12.04(a)); applications based on disease or imminent hazard get priority (4-12.04(h)); proposed decisions on dead/dying trees cannot be appealed (4-12.07(b)(1)); emergency removal only on order of the Director of Public Works or Director of Public Safety, at owner cost (4-12.09)",
   "fee": "$264 Tree Permit (removal, encroachment or substantial trimming) not associated with a building permit; $271/hr when associated with a building permit application; Tree Permit Appeal $475",
   "fee_schedule_year": "FY 2026-27 Citywide Fee Schedule, effective July 1, 2026 (p. 22, Community Development: 'Tree Permit (removal, encroachment, or substantially trim) not associated with a building permit; hourly rate (PMC Title 4, Chapter 12) $264.00')",
   "penalty": "Misdemeanor, fine up to $1,000 and/or up to 6 months county jail (4-12.14(a)); violations are a public nuisance; unpermitted removal requires at least 2 replacement trees per healthy tree removed plus payment of the mature tree's replacement value minus the cost of the replacements, or full replacement value in lieu (4-12.14(c)); stop-work orders and performance security forfeiture for construction damage (4-12.11)",
   "arborist_report_required": "yes",
   "arborist_report_when": "Every standalone permit to remove a protected tree: PMC 4-12.04(a) 'An arborist's report including an ISA basic tree risk assessment form will be required for removal of a protected tree(s) needing a permit.' The city's Tree Permit Application checklist lists 'For stand alone applications: Application Fee of $256, Arborist's report and an ISA basic tree risk assessment form' and the Instructions list 'Arborist report' and 'ISA basic tree risk assessment form for removal of a protected tree(s)' as required items. For pruning and encroachment permits the report is discretionary ('may be required to provide a plot plan ... and/or an arborist's report', 4-12.05(a), 4-12.06(a)). For a tree permit connected to a building permit the Instructions require only the application form and site plan (arborist review time is billed), but a tree protection and preservation plan prepared by a qualified arborist is required for any regulated work within 50 feet of a protected tree (4-12.11).",
   "department": "Community Development Department (private-property tree permits), 1800 Francisco Blvd, treepermit@pacifica.gov, online via Digital Permit Suite; Public Works Field Services (street/ROW and City trees), 155 Milagra Dr. Decision-maker under the code is the Director of Public Works or designee (City Arborist).",
   "permit_service_tier": "A",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "none",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "Pacifica's ordinance exempts only tree removals the City itself carries out under a fire mitigation program (PMC 4-12.10); private owners need the normal permit, with priority review for disease or imminent hazard (4-12.04(h)), and emergency removal only on order of the Director or Director of Public Safety (4-12-09).",
   "last_verified": "2026-10-12",
   "sources": "https://www.cityofpacifica.org/departments/public-works/field-services/trees/tree-ordinances-permits | https://library.municode.com/ca/pacifica/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=TIT4PUSA_CH12TRPR | https://www.cityofpacifica.org/home/showpublisheddocument/18620/638924227481570000 | https://www.cityofpacifica.org/home/showpublisheddocument/15283/638919795239500000 | https://www.cityofpacifica.org/home/showpublisheddocument/23217/639186077198470000 | https://pacificaca.qscend.com/311/knowledgebase/article/3582",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-pacifica/"
  },
  {
   "city": "Palo Alto",
   "region": "Peninsula",
   "code_section": "PAMC Ch. 8.10 (Ord. 5557 eff. 7/21/2022; Ord. 5612 eff. 5/1/2024)",
   "protected_trees": "Protected trees: six locally native species (bigleaf maple, CA incense cedar, coast live/blue/CA black/valley oak) 11.5\"+ DBH; coast redwood 18\"+; ALL other non-invasive, non-high-water-use species 15\"+. Heritage = council-designated any size. 7-day posted notice before pruning protected trees (Ord. 5612)",
   "threshold": "11.5\" / 15\" / 18\" DBH at 54\" above natural grade",
   "unit": "dbh",
   "measurement_height_in": 54,
   "multi_trunk": "Per Tree Technical Manual",
   "dead_hazard": "Imminently hazardous tree may be removed in emergency without completed permit (14-day posting waived) per city FAQ; dead-but-stable trees still need permit; fees waivable for dead/hazard/storm",
   "fee": "FY 2027 (adopted June 15, 2026): Protected Tree Removal $481.00 per removal + Record Management Fee $181.00 per file (= $662); was $460 + $174 (= $634) in FY 2026. Also: Home Improvement Exception - Trees $601/application; 2026 in-lieu fee $1,250 per 24-inch box tree (dept page).",
   "fee_schedule_year": "FY 2027 Adopted Municipal Fee Schedule (adopted by City Council June 15, 2026), Public Works p. 97",
   "penalty": "$10,000 per tree OR TWICE CTLA reproduction cost, WHICHEVER HIGHER + replacement at 2x prescribed ratio + development moratorium up to 5 years (8.10.110); min replacement two 24\"-box trees (TTM Table 3-1)",
   "arborist_report_required": "yes",
   "arborist_report_when": "Every protected tree removal permit (no-development residential, development, subdivision, planning-approval, and 'any other circumstance') is decided 'on the basis of a tree report prepared by a designated arborist' (PAMC 8.10.050(a)-(e)). Dept page: Tree Removal Permit application must include an arborist report confirming an allowable removal reason; letter-report format acceptable for 3 or fewer trees; hazard claims need a Level 2 TRAQ assessment.",
   "department": "Public Works, Urban Forestry Section: (650) 496-5953, trees@paloalto.gov; designated-arborist report (interim: any ISA Certified Arborist until list official)",
   "permit_service_tier": "A",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "none",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "Palo Alto's ordinance has no fire provision; a protected tree may be removed only under a permit from the urban forester on a designated arborist's report showing it is dead, hazardous or a public nuisance, crowding another protected tree, in decline, or damaging a residence foundation or eaves (PAMC 8.10.050(a)(1)).",
   "last_verified": "2026-07-31",
   "sources": "https://bit.ly/paloaltoOPS | https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/paloalto/latest/paloalto_ca/0-0-0-65955 | https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/paloalto/latest/paloalto_ca/0-0-0-66005 | https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/paloalto/latest/paloalto_ca/0-0-0-66051 | https://www.paloalto.gov/Departments/Public-Works/Public-Services/Palo-Altos-Urban-Forest/Tree-Ordinance-Information | https://www.paloalto.gov/Departments/Public-Works/Public-Services/Palo-Altos-Urban-Forest/Tree-Ordinance-Update-2022/Protected-Tree-Removal-Notices | https://www.paloalto.gov/Departments/Public-Works/Public-Services/Palo-Altos-Urban-Forest/Who-We-Are | https://www.paloalto.gov/files/assets/public/v/1/administrative-services/city-budgets/municipal-fee-schedules/fy-2027-adopted-municipal-fee-schedule.pdf | https://www.paloalto.gov/files/assets/public/v/4/public-works/tree-section/tree-permit-application_fill-in-formcpa.pdf",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-palo-alto/"
  },
  {
   "city": "Piedmont",
   "region": "East Bay",
   "code_section": "City Code Ch. 3 (public trees 3.14/3.18/3.20.1; hazard 3.21; Viewshed 3.22)",
   "protected_trees": "NO private-property removal permit or size threshold. Public/street trees: no work by anyone but city/agents; Heritage Tree Program honorific (~28 trees). Viewshed (3.22): neighbor view-claim process can compel pruning/removal of private trees via binding arbitration/court",
   "threshold": "N/A, no private threshold",
   "unit": "none",
   "measurement_height_in": null,
   "multi_trunk": "N/A",
   "dead_hazard": "No permit needed (private); City can compel hazard-tree removal on 24-hour notice at owner expense (3.21)",
   "fee": "None (private trees)",
   "fee_schedule_year": "N/A (City Code current through Ord. 783 N.S. per city code page)",
   "penalty": "Private removal: none. PUBLIC tree violations: $1,000 per violation + treble damages (Civ. Code 3346), each branch >1\" pruned a separate violation (3.20.1); street/ROW removal needs prior Park Commission approval after noticed hearing (3.18)",
   "arborist_report_required": "no",
   "arborist_report_when": "No private-tree removal permit exists, so no report is required. City Code Ch. 3 Art. V (Trees on Private Property) contains only Sec. 3.21 (City-initiated hazardous tree removal on 24-hour notice) and Sec. 3.22 (Viewshed; private view-claim arbitration). Only arborist references: 3.22 'View Arbitrator' may be an ISA registered/certified arborist, and 3.22.7(5) 'All trimming, topping, thinning and tree removal required under this Section must be performed by a certified arborist.'",
   "department": "Public Works (510) 420-3050; Heritage Tree Program (510) 420-3040",
   "permit_service_tier": "none",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "none",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "Piedmont has no private tree removal permit, so no fire exemption is needed; the only private-tree provisions let the City order removal of a tree that is an imminent hazard to public property on 24-hour notice (City Code 3.21) and govern view disputes (3.22).",
   "last_verified": "2026-07-31",
   "sources": "Piedmont City Code Ch. 3 (city-hosted PDF) | https://piedmont.ca.gov/UserFiles/Servers/Server_13659739/File/Government/City%20Charter%20&%20Code/Chapter%203%20(effective%2005.21.2025).pdf | https://piedmont.ca.gov/government/charter___city_code | https://piedmont.ca.gov/services___departments/public_works/trees",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-piedmont/"
  },
  {
   "city": "Pleasant Hill",
   "region": "Contra Costa",
   "code_section": "PHMC Ch. 18.100 (Tree Preservation; Ord. 978 adopted 11/17/2025, recodified from 18.50)",
   "protected_trees": "Native oak/indigenous trees: 9\"+ dia. Non-native trees (EXCLUDING eucalyptus and palms): 18\"+ dia. Heritage program: enrolled native/indigenous trees >=16\" eligible (no removal except hazard/disease)",
   "threshold": "9\" (natives) / 18\" (non-natives), diameter at 54\" (DBH)",
   "unit": "dbh",
   "measurement_height_in": 54,
   "multi_trunk": "Per DBH definition",
   "dead_hazard": "Hazardous-tree emergency removal is exempt from the prior-permit requirement (PHMC 18.100.040(C)): notify the City Manager and file the permit application within five days after removal. Non-emergency dead or diseased trees: apply first; arborist report required; Zoning Administrator decides.",
   "fee": "Tree Removal Permits $166 ($213 per hour if more than five trees); Cost Recovery Agreement required if more than five trees; Appeal to City Council $464, to Board/Commission $398. Input had no dollar figure ('Per fee schedule'). Note: fee schedule still cites 'PHMC 18.50.110' (pre-recodification section).",
   "fee_schedule_year": "FY 2026-27 Master Fee Schedule, 'Effective September 01, 2026' (posted PDF shows 'Adopted by Resolution No. ___' blank)",
   "penalty": "Civil penalty <=$1,000 per tree or replacement value of each tree (18.100.090(A)) + replacement: native removals >=two 15-gal on site; non-native >=one 15-gal (18.100)",
   "arborist_report_required": "yes",
   "arborist_report_when": "Every tree removal permit application (PHMC 18.100.030.D). Exception: for a Zoning Administrator determination that a tree is dead (no permit, no fee), an arborist report is only required 'if deemed necessary' (18.100.040.F.1). Emergency hazardous-tree removal is exempt from a prior permit but a permit must be submitted within five days (18.100.040.C). Discretionary development with protected-tree removal also requires a tree preservation and replacement plan with an arborist report (18.100.050). Third-party peer review by a certified arborist/BCMA/RCA may be required at applicant cost (18.100.030.F).",
   "department": "Planning Division (925) 671-5209 (phillca.gov)",
   "permit_service_tier": "A",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "approval-ground",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "A tree located close to a structure in a high fire hazard area whose removal is needed to create defensible space under fire-safety laws or Fire District requirements is one of the factors the Zoning Administrator weighs in approving the normal permit (PHMC 18.100.030(E)(9)); no permit is needed only for firefighting removals, imminent hazards (permit within five days) and dead trees (18.100.040).",
   "last_verified": "2026-10-09",
   "sources": "https://ecode360.com/49385640 | https://ecode360.com/49386660 | https://selfservice.pleasanthillca.org/EnerGov_Prod/SelfService#/home | https://www.phillca.gov/93/Planning-Division | https://www.phillca.gov/97/Planning-Application-Forms-Information | https://www.phillca.gov/DocumentCenter/Home/View/9745 | https://www.phillca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/23619/Master-Fee-Schedule-FY26-27",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-pleasant-hill/"
  },
  {
   "city": "Pleasanton",
   "region": "East Bay",
   "code_section": "PMC Ch. 17.16 (Tree Preservation), secs. 17.16.003-17.16.120, as rewritten by Ord. 2288 (12/17/2024); ecode360 code includes legislation through Ord. 2306 (6/2/2026)",
   "protected_trees": "Protected tree (any origin): NATIVE species (big leaf maple, box elder, California buckeye, California sycamore, canyon oak, coast live oak, interior live oak, blue oak, California black oak, valley oak, California bay laurel, California black walnut, tan oak) with trunk circumference of 37\" or more at 4.5 ft; ANY OTHER species 55\" circumference or more at 4.5 ft; multi-trunk trees measured below the split. Heritage trees (owner-nominated, designated by the Landscape Architecture Division) protected regardless of size. Trees required by a development condition of approval need Planning Division approval to remove (city handout). The former 35-ft height test was removed by Ord. 2288.",
   "threshold": "37\" circumference (13 listed native species) / 55\" circumference (any other species) at 4.5 ft (54\")",
   "unit": "circumference",
   "measurement_height_in": 54,
   "multi_trunk": "17.16.006: a native multi-trunked tree is protected at 'a minimum circumference of 37 inches measured below the split at the narrowest point below the main attachment or at the base if applicable'; non-native multi-trunked trees at 55 inches measured the same way. Multi-trunk tree means more than one major stem from a single root mass at ground level or just above the trunk flare, excluding suckers and root sprouts.",
   "dead_hazard": "Dead, dying or diseased trees (17.16.020(C)(1)) and dangerous/hazardous trees ((C)(2)) are grounds for a permit, which is still required (free; City Arborist inspection). Emergency (17.16.060): a protected tree may be removed WITHOUT a permit only in an 'emergency' as defined in 17.16.006 (active failure in progress such as a broken attached branch, partial uprooting or split fork meeting ISA 'extreme' or 'high' risk); the director must be notified 'at the earliest opportunity' to confirm, and if it was not an emergency the 17.16.110 penalties apply. High/very-high fire-severity-zone trees may be approved for removal on a Livermore-Pleasanton fire marshal finding ((C)(6)).",
   "fee": "No fee: 'Removal of trees requires a no-cost permit from the City's Landscape Architect' (city Landscape Architecture page, 2026). Appeal: same as a planning division appeal, Master Fee Schedule Planning Division eff. 01.01.2026 'Appeals ... $349', refunded upon successful appeal (17.16.040(B)). Development removals: payment to the Urban Forestry Fund of appraised value less installed trees may be required; tree-protection security $100 per inch of circumference or appraised value, max $200,000 (17.16.050(C)).",
   "fee_schedule_year": "City web page 2026 (no-cost permit); Master Fee Schedule Planning Division effective 01.01.2026 (appeal)",
   "penalty": "Civil penalty of $100 for each inch of trunk circumference at 54\" above grade (or at the height of the remaining stump) OR the appraised value of the tree (CTLA Guide for Plant Appraisal), whichever is greater; minimum $5,000 when species/size cannot be determined; property owner who hired the remover is liable; failure to plant or maintain replacement trees within one year draws the same penalty; director may suspend permit processing, issue stop-work or revoke construction permits (17.16.110). Development trees removed without approval: penalty equal to appraised value plus forfeiture of the $100/inch bond (17.16.050).",
   "arborist_report_required": "conditional",
   "arborist_report_when": "Not required for a stand-alone private removal: 17.16.020(A) requires only the city form with 'the number, species, size and location of protected trees to be removed and a brief statement of the reason for removal'; the City Arborist visually inspects and responds within 2 weeks (2026 brochure). Required at the director's discretion for new property development (17.16.050(A)(2): 'Depending on the scope of the development, the director may require the applicant to provide an arborist report ... by an approved consulting arborist', which must include a CTLA appraisal) and the 2026 brochure says for development 'An arborist report from the City's list of approved consulting arborists and/or mitigation for tree removal may be required.' Minor development handled through the building permit (17.16.070): if the project requires an arborist's report its tree-protection recommendations are binding and an approved consulting arborist must monitor the site. Older brochure: 'This period will be longer if an arborist report is needed.'",
   "department": "Landscape Architecture Division (Public Works), 200 Old Bernal Avenue, P.O. Box 520, Pleasanton 94566; private trees: Landscape Architect, treepermit@cityofpleasantonca.gov, 925-931-5672; city-owned trees: Parks Maintenance 925-931-5500; development projects: Community and Economic Development (925) 931-5630",
   "permit_service_tier": "A",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "approval-ground",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "The director may grant the (free) permit for a protected tree in a CAL FIRE high or very high fire severity zone if the Livermore-Pleasanton fire marshal determines it poses an increased risk to life or property that cannot reasonably be mitigated (PMC 17.16.020(C)(6)); only an active-failure emergency allows removal without a permit.",
   "last_verified": "2026-10-12",
   "sources": "https://ecode360.com/43030780 | https://www.cityofpleasantonca.gov/assets/our-government/public-works/engineering/landscape-ordinance/Tree-Brochure-2026.pdf | https://www.cityofpleasantonca.gov/our-government/public-works/landscape-architecture/ | https://www.cityofpleasantonca.gov/assets/our-government/public-works/engineering/landscape-ordinance/Consulting-Arborist-List-2026.pdf | https://www.cityofpleasantonca.gov/assets/our-government/community-development/permits-forms-fees/Planning-Fees.pdf | https://www.cityofpleasantonca.gov/assets/our-government/community-development/handouts/tree-removal.pdf",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-pleasanton/"
  },
  {
   "city": "Portola Valley",
   "region": "Peninsula",
   "code_section": "PVMC Ch. 15.12 Site Development and Tree Protection (15.12.060(28a), 15.12.070(A)(6), 15.12.275; Ord. 1993-274)",
   "protected_trees": "Native 'significant trees' only, by circumference (C) or diameter (D) measured 54\" above mean natural grade: coast live oak, black oak, valley oak and California bay laurel 36\" C / 11.5\" D; blue oak 16\" C / 5\" D; coast redwood and Douglas fir 54\" C / 17.2\" D; big leaf maple and madrone 24\" C / 7.6\" D; plus any tree listed in the Historic Element of the General Plan. Non-listed species (e.g. Monterey pine, eucalyptus, magnolia) and smaller natives need no permit. Removal is authorized by a site development permit (tree removal permit).",
   "threshold": "36\" circumference (11.5\" dia) coast live/black/valley oak and bay; 16\" (5\") blue oak; 54\" (17.2\") redwood and Douglas fir; 24\" (7.6\") big leaf maple and madrone; at 54\" above mean natural grade; listed native species only",
   "unit": "circumference",
   "measurement_height_in": 54,
   "multi_trunk": "Ambiguous: 15.12.060(28a) covers 'a trunk or multiple trunks with a total circumference (C) or diameter (D) greater than the size indicated', while the table note under California bay laurel says '(If multiple trunks, measurements pertain to largest trunk)'; the plot-plan rule treats multi-trunk trees with any one trunk of 4\" as inventory trees (15.12.080(A)(5))",
   "dead_hazard": "No dead-tree exemption: the Town page says a permit is required 'even if the tree appears to be dead'; emergency only: 'when a tree is hazardous or dangerous to life or property, it may be trimmed or removed by order of a member of a utility company, a member of a police or fire department, or town staff, all acting in official capacity' (15.12.050)",
   "fee": "$96 application processing fee (Tree Removal Permit; no deposit); Town consultants' review costs may be charged to the applicant (15.12.090)",
   "fee_schedule_year": "Town Master Fee Schedule adopted by the Town Council May 22, 2024 (p. 8, Planning: 'Tree Removal Permit - deposit none - $96'); the application form 'Revised 07/01/24' states 'REQUIRES $96.00 APPLICATION PROCESSING FEE'. No later schedule found on portolavalley.net.",
   "penalty": "Misdemeanor: fine up to $500 and/or imprisonment up to 180 days, each day a separate offense (15.12.410(A)); anyone violating the tree-protection provisions must also replace damaged or destroyed trees with new native trees of at least 15-gallon size (15.12.410(C)); permit revocation or suspension (15.12.350)",
   "arborist_report_required": "yes",
   "arborist_report_when": "Every application to remove a significant tree, per the Town's Tree Removal page ('An arborist's report is required.') and the application form ('REASON FOR TREE REMOVAL REQUEST: (Provide copy of Arborist Report)'). The code itself does not require one: Ch. 15.12 lets the Town engage foresters or other consultants at the applicant's cost (15.12.090) and the Conservation Subcommittee considers 'any arborist reports available'.",
   "department": "Planning & Building Department, Town Hall, 765 Portola Road; applications emailed to planbuild@portolavalley.net; reviewed by the Conservation Committee (subcommittee site visit) with staff issuing the site development permit",
   "permit_service_tier": "B",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "none",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "Portola Valley's ordinance has no defensible-space exemption; a significant tree may be trimmed or removed without the site development permit only in an emergency when it is hazardous or dangerous to life or property and a utility, police or fire department member or town staff orders it (PVMC 15.12.050).",
   "last_verified": "2026-10-12",
   "sources": "https://www.portolavalley.net/departments/planning-building-department/resource-center/general-information-and-handouts/tree-removal | https://www.portolavalley.net/home/showpublisheddocument/188/638550728677530000 | https://library.municode.com/ca/portola_valley/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=TIT15BUCO_CH15.12SIDETRPR | https://www.portolavalley.net/home/showpublisheddocument/14733/637612637204470000 | https://www.portolavalley.net/departments/planning-building-department",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-portola-valley/"
  },
  {
   "city": "Redwood City",
   "region": "Peninsula",
   "code_section": "RCMC Ch. 35 (Ord. 1536, adopted 6/26/1972)",
   "protected_trees": "Size-only, ALL species: 38\" circumference (~12.1\" dia); + Park & Rec Commission-designated heritage trees any size. Pruning of protected trees also requires (free) permit",
   "threshold": "38\" circumference measured at WIDEST point between 6\" and 36\" above ground",
   "unit": "circumference",
   "measurement_height_in": null,
   "multi_trunk": "Single trunk standard (Sec. 35.1)",
   "dead_hazard": "Dead/dying is an approval GROUND, not an exemption, free permit still required; true emergency: remove, then contact City Arborist within 72 HOURS for inspection + after-the-fact permit (city FAQ)",
   "fee": "FREE; city-published processing 'normally within ten working days'",
   "fee_schedule_year": "n/a - department page (Community Development > Tree Permits), read 2026-10-09; tree permit not a line item in a fee schedule",
   "penalty": "$500 per tree (pruning or removal) + replacement equal to appraised value of original + possible misdemeanor <=$1,000/6 mo; $500 + mitigation for permit-condition violations",
   "arborist_report_required": "yes",
   "arborist_report_when": "Every private-property tree removal application: the city's Tree Permit Application - Submittal Requirements checklist lists an Arborist Report as a required item and states removal criteria must be identified in a written recommendation from a Certified Arborist. City Arborist may additionally require architectural plans, tree inventory (large projects/new development) or tree & landscape appraisal.",
   "department": "Public Works: (650) 780-7464, pws-adminsupport@redwoodcity.org (OnCamino portal)",
   "permit_service_tier": "A",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "none",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "Redwood City's 1972 ordinance has no fire provision; the Director weighs disease, danger of falling and proximity to structures and gives priority to hazardous or diseased trees (RCMC 35.4), and an emergency hazardous tree may be removed with permission of any Police, Fire or Park Department member (35.5).",
   "last_verified": "2026-07-31",
   "sources": "https://app.oncamino.com/redwood-city | https://library.municode.com/ca/redwood_city/codes/city_code?nodeId=CH1GEPR_ARTIIIPRAPCAUP | https://library.municode.com/ca/redwood_city/codes/city_code?nodeId=CH35TRPR | https://www.redwoodcity.org/departments/community-development-department/planning-housing/planning-services/tree-preservation-maintenance/tree-permits | https://www.redwoodcity.org/departments/public-works/trees-sidewalks | https://www.redwoodcity.org/home/showpublisheddocument/22501/637377573501470000 | https://www.redwoodcity.org/home/showpublisheddocument/22505/637377609568630000 | https://www.redwoodcity.org/home/showpublisheddocument/22598/637393027894300000",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-redwood-city/"
  },
  {
   "city": "Ross",
   "region": "Marin",
   "code_section": "Ross Municipal Code Chapter 12.24 Planting, Alteration, Removal, or Maintenance of Trees ('Tree Protection Ordinance'), secs. 12.24.005-12.24.120 (Ords. 568 (2002), 591 (2005), 659 (2015), 686 (2018), 720 (2023), 728 (2025)); Town-published code PDF",
   "protected_trees": "Species-neutral, size and location based. IMPROVED parcels (with a habitable structure): a 'Protected tree' is any tree with a diameter greater than 8\" located within 25 ft of the front or side yard property line or within 40 ft of the rear yard property line, plus any replacement tree or tree planted in a required yard setback under a Council-approved landscape plan; a 'Significant tree' is any tree with a single trunk diameter greater than 12\" anywhere on the parcel, or any tree designated to be preserved on Council-approved plans or as a condition of approval (12.24.020(9), (11); 12.24.070). UNIMPROVED parcels: any tree 6\" in diameter or greater (12.24.060). Public right-of-way: all trees greater than 6\" (12.24.040). 'Alter' (excessive pruning over 25% of the crown, grade changes, trenching in the root zone, etc.) is regulated like removal. 'Fire hazard' trees (fire-authority designation, a listed fire-prone species such as acacia, bamboo, arborvitae, California bay, bishop/Coulter/gray/knobcone/Monterey/Scots/Torrey pine, cedars, cypress, Douglas fir, blue gum and red gum eucalyptus, false cypress, junipers, larch, spruces, yew, or any tree within 5 ft of a house or structure) still need the permit but qualify for the 'fire hazards' approval criterion and the reduced hazardous-tree fee.",
   "threshold": "Improved parcel: greater than 8\" diameter within 25 ft of front/side or 40 ft of rear property line, or single trunk greater than 12\" anywhere; unimproved parcel: 6\" or greater; all at 4 ft 6 in (54\")",
   "unit": "dbh",
   "measurement_height_in": 54,
   "multi_trunk": "12.24.020(3): 'If there are multiple stems below 4-1/2 feet, the diameter shall be the single largest branch (stem) at 4-1/2 feet; except, if only two stems are present, then the tree is considered to be forked and diameter shall be the measurement of the smallest trunk diameter below the fork.'",
   "dead_hazard": "Dead, dying and hazardous trees still need a Tree Alteration or Removal Permit, at a reduced fee ($278 for up to 3 'Dead, Dying, and/or Town Identified Hazardous Trees', $62 each additional; $0 in the right-of-way; Town Fee Schedule eff. 7/1/2026); tree condition (general health, damage, disease, danger of falling, proximity or damage to structures, utility interference) and 'fire hazards' are approval criteria (12.24.080(2)(a), (d)); trees in poor condition or creating a hazard to a building need only 2\" of replacement trunk diameter (12.24.080(4)(c)). EMERGENCY: 'In the event of an emergency, when such tree poses an imminent threat to life or property, a peace officer or firefighter in their official capacity may exempt a property owner from a Tree Alteration or Removal Permit requirement in the absence of the Public Works Director. The Public Works Director shall be promptly notified of the nature of the emergency and action taken.' (12.24.070(3); same for unimproved parcels 12.24.060(3) and right-of-way 12.24.040(6)). Owners have a duty to keep trees safe and to secure or support a dangerous tree (12.24.030).",
   "fee": "Town Fee Schedule (Effective July 1, 2026), Public Works: Tree removal permit - First three trees $552; Each additional tree $104; Dead, Dying, and/or Town Identified Hazardous Trees - Up to 3 $278; Each additional tree (dead/dying/hazardous) $62; Dead, Dying, and/or Town Identified Hazardous Trees in Right-Of-Way $0; Tree destruction (Muni code Chapter 12.24) $1,000 per day; Public Works hourly rate $285. In Lieu Tree Fee: $250 per one inch of tree replacement diameter; $500 for a tree determined to be in poor condition or creating a hazard to a building or other structure, as determined by a certified arborist. Planning: Appeal to Town Council $5,015 (general planning appeal line; tree-permit appeals go to the Council under Ch. 18.60). Fact sheet: application fees are nonrefundable and 'based on the current fee schedule in effect at the time of application submittal'.",
   "fee_schedule_year": "FY 2026-27 (Town Fee Schedule effective July 1, 2026; file town_fee_schedule_7-2026.pdf)",
   "penalty": "12.24.120: violation is a public nuisance; civil penalty 'one thousand dollars ($1,000) per day for each such action and day the violation occurs' (owner and contractor), capped at $100,000 per incident lasting 100 days or more, exclusive of administrative, attorney and arborist costs; or alternatively the appraised value of the tree (CTLA Guide for Plant Appraisal); remedial pruning and replacement per 12.24.080(4); unpaid amounts become a lien; the Town Council sets the penalty at a public hearing and may accept replanting as correction; a violating contractor forfeits the Town business license for two years. Fee schedule: 'Tree destruction (Muni code Chapter 12.24) $1,000 per day'; after-the-fact planning applications 3x fee.",
   "arborist_report_required": "yes",
   "arborist_report_when": "Every Tree Alteration or Removal Permit application must include 'Justification for the removal of each tree proposed to be removed including a certified arborist's report describing the tree's condition and structure, unless waived by the town' (12.24.080(1)(d)); the Town's fact sheet (rev. 10/5/22): 'Applications for tree alteration/removal permits must include a completed tree alteration/removal application and a certified arborist report.' Development: a tree protection plan with a certified arborist's report is required where Significant or Protected trees may be impacted, mandatory for Hillside Lot and Hazard Zone Use Permits and at staff/Council discretion for subdivisions, variances, demolition, design review, grading and building permits (12.24.100). The Town Arborist reviews applications and 'If there is a conflict between arborists regarding the condition or structure of a tree, the town arborist's decision shall control' (12.24.080(4)). The Public Works Director may waive the report.",
   "department": "Town of Ross Public Works Department, 31 Sir Francis Drake Boulevard (P.O. Box 320), Ross, CA 94957; (415) 453-1453, Option 4; David Kelley, Interim Public Works Director, dkelley@townofrossca.gov; counter hours Mon-Thu 8:30 a.m.-12:00 noon; applications through the eTRAKiT Community Portal or the Public Works counter",
   "permit_service_tier": "B",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "approval-ground",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "A fire-hazard tree (designated in writing by the fire authority, a listed fire-prone species, or any tree within 5 ft of a house or structure) still needs the permit, but 'the alteration or removal is necessary due to fire hazards' is an approval criterion, hazard trees carry the reduced $278 fee and a 2-inch replacement requirement, and fire-safety spacing can justify an in-lieu fee instead of replanting.",
   "last_verified": "2026-10-21",
   "sources": "https://www.townofrossca.gov/sites/default/files/fileattachments/administration/page/243/12.24_planting_alteration_removal_or_maintenance_of_trees.pdf | https://www.townofrossca.gov/administration/page/title-12-streets-and-sidewalks | https://www.townofrossca.gov/sites/default/files/fileattachments/public_works/page/257/tree_removal_permit_fact_sheet_10_5_22.pdf | https://www.townofrossca.gov/publicworks/page/tree-alterationremoval-application-fact-sheet | https://www.townofrossca.gov/publicworks | https://www.townofrossca.gov/sites/default/files/fileattachments/building/page/227/town_fee_schedule_7-2026.pdf | https://www.townofrossca.gov/building/page/municipal-fee-schedule | https://www.townofrossca.gov/sites/default/files/fileattachments/town_council/meeting/4264/item_13_council_consideration_of_introduction_of_ordinance_720_tree_protection_ordinance.pdf | https://www.townofrossca.gov/sites/default/files/fileattachments/town_council/meeting/901/13c._-ordinance_659_trees.pdf | https://www.townofrossca.gov/sites/default/files/fileattachments/public_works/page/257/tree_removal_permit_fact_sheet.18.18_0.pdf",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-ross/"
  },
  {
   "city": "San Anselmo",
   "region": "Marin",
   "code_section": "SAMC Title 4, Ch. 13 Private Trees, 4-13.01 to 4-13.08 (Ord. 709, 1976; Ord. 889, 1987; Ord. 1020, 2001); Ch. 9 Street Trees",
   "protected_trees": "Developed parcels: 'heritage trees' only, any species with a trunk 22 inches diameter at breast height (4.5 ft) or a Council-designated tree; acacia and any Council-designated 'nuisance' tree are never heritage trees (Town lists acacia, eucalyptus, plum, privet, Monterey pine, and administratively liquidambar, as nuisance trees needing no permit). Undeveloped parcels (lots that can be further subdivided or developed): any 'tree', meaning any woody plant with at least one trunk of 7 inches DBH. Permit covers removal, destruction, pruning or root cutting that endangers or shortens the tree's life, and raising the soil level; the Town defines permitted pruning as removal of less than 25 percent of the foliage. Street trees need a Public Works permit under Ch. 9.",
   "threshold": "22\" DBH any species on developed lots (heritage tree) / 7\" DBH any tree on undeveloped lots, at 4.5 ft",
   "unit": "dbh",
   "measurement_height_in": 54,
   "multi_trunk": "Multi-trunk: a plant is a tree if 'one or more trunks, any one of which' is 7 inches DBH (4-13.02(a)); the heritage definition speaks of 'a trunk' of 22 inches, so the largest single trunk is measured (4-13.02(b))",
   "dead_hazard": "No dead-tree exemption in the code; tree condition (disease, danger of falling) is a decision factor (4-13.06(a)(1)). Emergency: 'In the event of any emergency in which a particular tree or heritage tree causes an immediate hazard or dangerous condition, such tree may be removed or cut back by permission of the Public Works Director, the Chief of Police, or Chief of the Fire Department or their respective department representatives without following the above described permit procedure' (4-13.06(b)). Town page: a tree verified by an arborist report to be dead, dying or dangerous can typically be approved immediately, and the fee may be waived.",
   "fee": "Tree Removal Fees: Heritage Tree and/or Undeveloped Parcel Tree $325 for the first hour, hourly rate thereafter, per permit ('For dead, dying or dangerous trees fee may be waived. Replacement trees may required for each tree removed.'); Street Tree $195.70 per permit (removal and planting); After-the-fact Tree or Heritage Tree Removal Fine $2,370.03 per tree; Arborist Site Visit and Arborist Report $250 per hour (Public Works); Appeals: Planning Applicant $3,749, Non-Applicant $1,000, General $1,000 (Finance and Administration lines 4-6).",
   "fee_schedule_year": "Town of San Anselmo Schedule of User Fees, effective July 1, 2026 (FY 2026-27; Public Works Fees lines 5-7 'Tree Removal Fees', columns 'Current FY 25-26 Fee/Charge' and 'Proposed FY26-27 Fee/Charge'; the FY26-27 column is the one in force)",
   "penalty": "'Any person violating any of the provisions of this chapter shall be guilty either of an infraction or a misdemeanor shall be subject to the penalties prescribed by this Code' (4-13.08). Fee schedule: 'After the fact - Tree or Heritage Tree Removal Fine $2,370.03 Per tree Penalty $2,050 Maximum as determined by the Public Works Director' (FY 2026-27). No appraisal-based penalty or replacement formula in the chapter.",
   "arborist_report_required": "yes",
   "arborist_report_when": "Every tree work permit (heritage tree, undeveloped-parcel tree or street tree): the Public Works page, the FAQ and the Supplemental Questionnaire for Tree Work Permit all state that an arborist's report and photographs are required before the application is complete. The code is narrower: 4-13.06(a) lets Public Works require 'such other pertinent information as the Public Works Department may require which may include a discussion of the need for the work by a qualified arborist', and the Parks Department Arborist may secure 'such expert advice deemed necessary' before deciding. A report verifying the tree is dead, dying or dangerous lets the Town approve immediately and may waive the fee.",
   "department": "Department of Public Works, 525 San Anselmo Avenue, San Anselmo 94960; (415) 258-4616 (Public Works, per the tree questionnaire; Engineers (415) 258-4634); applications online through the Town's permit portal; the Parks Department Arborist decides after inspection; appeals to the Town Council",
   "permit_service_tier": "B",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "none",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "Chapter 13 has no fire-safety or defensible-space exemption or finding; the only fire-related routes are the Fire Chief's emergency authorization for an immediate hazard (4-13.06(b)) and the permit-free removal of Council-designated nuisance species (acacia, eucalyptus, Monterey pine, plum, privet, liquidambar), and the Town's page notes that fuel reduction usually means limbing up and clearing ladder fuels rather than removing the tree.",
   "last_verified": "2026-10-21",
   "sources": "https://library.municode.com/ca/san_anselmo/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=TIT4PUWEMOCO_CH13PRTR | https://library.municode.com/ca/san_anselmo/codes/code_of_ordinances | https://www.sananselmo.gov/414/Public-Works-Permits | https://www.sananselmo.gov/faq.aspx?qid=118 | https://www.townofsananselmo.org/DocumentCenter/View/21522 | https://www.townofsananselmo.org/DocumentCenter/View/784 | https://www.sananselmo.gov/DocumentCenter/View/30079",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-san-anselmo/"
  },
  {
   "city": "San Bruno",
   "region": "Peninsula",
   "code_section": "SBMC Ch. 8.25 Heritage Trees (Ord. 1669, 2002; Ord. 1944, 12/12/2024)",
   "protected_trees": "Heritage trees: native bay (Umbellularia californica), buckeye (Aesculus spp.), oak (Quercus spp.), redwood (Sequoia sempervirens) or Monterey pine (Pinus radiata) 6\" diameter or more; any other species 10\" diameter or more; Council-designated trees or stands and stands of interdependent trees at any size. Applies to all trees on public or private property except street trees (Ch. 8.24). Blue gum eucalyptus is not exempt, but the director may waive the chapter's other conditions when permitting its removal (8.25.040(D)).",
   "threshold": "6\" diameter (native bay, buckeye, oak, redwood, Monterey pine) / 10\" diameter (any other species), measured at 54\" above natural grade",
   "unit": "dbh",
   "measurement_height_in": 54,
   "multi_trunk": "None in Ch. 8.25 ('Any other tree with a trunk diameter of ten inches or more'); stands of trees that depend on each other for survival are heritage regardless of size (8.25.020(3))",
   "dead_hazard": "No dead-tree exemption; permit required unless 'in the case of an emergency when a tree poses an imminent hazard or danger to life or property, it may be pruned or removed by order of any member of the police, fire or public works department' (8.25.030); applications 'based on hazard or danger of disease' get priority (8.25.040(C)); franchised utilities may remove interfering trees",
   "fee": "$181 Tree Removal Permit; $91 Tree Pruning Permit; $533 refundable replacement deposit per tree removed (one 24\" box or two 15-gallon trees); $632 Tree Non-Replacement (in-lieu) Fee per tree removed",
   "fee_schedule_year": "Schedule of User and Regulatory Fees and Charges, effective October 1, 2026 (FY 2026-27 Phase One, p. 29, 'IX. Tree Maintenance Fees': Tree Pruning Permit $91; Tree Removal Permit $181; One 24\" box tree or two 15 gallon trees per removal $533; Tree Non-Replacement Fee $632). Same figures on the city's Trees on Private Property page.",
   "penalty": "Misdemeanor (city attorney may prosecute as an infraction), each day a separate offense (8.25.090); trees removed without a valid permit must be replaced at double the normal quantity (8.25.050(C)), i.e. four 15-gallon or two 24\" box trees per tree, or payment of equal value to the city tree planting fund where replanting is infeasible (8.25.050(D)); pruning beyond permit conditions is deemed a removal (8.25.020)",
   "arborist_report_required": "yes",
   "arborist_report_when": "Every heritage tree removal or pruning permit in practice: the city's Trees on Private Property page says 'You will need to submit a certified arborist report to us by email' listing why the tree needs pruning or removal, the diameter at 54 inches above natural grade, the cost estimate of the work on the report, and a current picture; removal requests must also state the replacement species/size or the in-lieu election. The code itself is permissive: 'The applicant may be required to submit an arborist's report with the permit application to show cause for removal' (8.25.040(A)).",
   "department": "Community Services Department, Parks Division (Parks Manager and Community Services Director review; director of community services decides). Submit the certified arborist report by email (adillon@sanbruno.ca.gov per the city page). Parks office 1125 Crystal Springs Rd; mailing 567 El Camino Real, San Bruno 94066.",
   "permit_service_tier": "A",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "none",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "San Bruno's ordinance has no fire provision; a heritage tree may be removed without a permit only in an emergency when it poses an imminent hazard and a police, fire or public works department member orders it (SBMC 8.25.030), and hazard-based applications get priority (8.25.040(C)).",
   "last_verified": "2026-10-12",
   "sources": "https://sanbruno.ca.gov/469/Trees-on-Private-Property | https://ecode360.com/44251560 | https://ecode360.com/SA5001 | https://www.sanbruno.ca.gov/Archive.aspx?AMID=&Type=&ADID=1194 | https://www.sanbruno.ca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/7219 | https://www.sanbruno.ca.gov/Archive.aspx?AMID=39",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-san-bruno/"
  },
  {
   "city": "San Carlos",
   "region": "Peninsula",
   "code_section": "SCMC 18.18.070 (Ord. 1580, 2022)",
   "protected_trees": "Heritage (diameter at 54\"): coast live/valley/blue/interior live oak, buckeye, madrone 9\"+; CA bay laurel 11\"+; coast redwood 15\"+; tree communities & Council-designated. Significant: any non-excluded species 11\"+ dia. EXCLUDED any size: eucalyptus (genus), Bailey/green/black acacia, tree of heaven, fruit trees, Monterey pine, palms",
   "threshold": "9\"/11\"/15\" dia (heritage) / 11\" (significant), at 54\"",
   "unit": "dbh",
   "measurement_height_in": 54,
   "multi_trunk": "Per code definitions",
   "dead_hazard": "Emergency removals require ORAL PERMISSION of City Arborist (replacement still required)",
   "fee": "$100 dead tree; $500 risk/health/species/utility; $500+staff time development; protection plan review $750 (<=5 trees)/$1,250 (6+); fees non-refundable",
   "fee_schedule_year": "FY 2026-27 (Cost of Services / User Fees, Adopted, effective July 1st, 2026)",
   "penalty": "Civil fines <=$5,000 per violation; if tree removed/killed: <=$5,000/tree OR appraised value, whichever HIGHER + stop-work, liens, replacement 1:1 (24\" box min; in-lieu if impractical) (18.18.070.G, .F.6)",
   "arborist_report_required": "conditional",
   "arborist_report_when": "Not required as a routine submittal - the City Arborist (city-retained) performs the site visit/report, paid for by the application fee. SCMC 18.18.070(F)(3): City Arborist 'may require the applicant to provide an arborist's report'. Development criterion (F)(2)(e) requires documentation/tree appraisals per the Administrative Guidelines (infeasibility narrative, two alternative site plans); structural-damage claims need a written narrative from an ISA Certified Arborist, structural engineer, or contractor (dept page). Any existing applicant report must be submitted for peer review.",
   "department": "Planning Division (650) 802-4263, planning@cityofsancarlos.org",
   "permit_service_tier": "B",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "none",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "San Carlos' ordinance has no fire provision; a protected tree may be removed without the application procedure only in an emergency with the oral permission or order of the City Arborist, and permits are issued for good cause such as death, ISA high/extreme risk, health, low-desirability species, development or utility interference (SCMC 18.18.070(E)-(F)).",
   "last_verified": "2026-07-31",
   "sources": "https://cityofsancarlos.org/city_hall/departments_and_divisions/community_development/planning/index.php | https://cms3.revize.com/revize/sancarlos/Document%20Center/City%20Hall/Departments%20And%20Divisions/Administrative%20Services/Finance/City%20Fees%20&%20Cost%20of%20Services/User%20fees/SanCarlos_MFS_FY2027%20-%20Planning.pdf | https://sancarlosca-energovweb.tylerhost.net/apps/selfservice#/home | https://www.cityofsancarlos.org/Document%20Center/City%20Hall/Departments%20And%20Divisions/Community%20Development/Planning/Planning%20Application/Planning%20Application/Tree%20removal%20application-fillable%20(1).pdf | https://www.cityofsancarlos.org/TPP%20Checklist.pdf | https://www.cityofsancarlos.org/city_hall/departments_and_divisions/community_development/planning/plans_and_standards/tree_removal_permit.php | https://www.codepublishing.com/CA/SanCarlos/html/SanCarlos18/SanCarlos1818.html",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-san-carlos/"
  },
  {
   "city": "San Francisco",
   "region": "San Francisco",
   "code_section": "SF Public Works Code Art. 16 (secs. 800-811; 810A significant trees; Ord. 1-22)",
   "protected_trees": "Significant tree: on DPW property OR private property w/ trunk within 10 FT of public ROW, AND any one of: DBH >12\" (dia; ~37.7\" circ), height >20 ft, canopy >15 ft. Street trees: any size (city-maintained since Prop E, passed Nov. 2016, duty eff. 7/1/2017). Landmark trees: Board of Supervisors-designated any size",
   "threshold": ">12\" DBH / >20 ft height / >15 ft canopy (independent prongs), DBH at 4.5 ft (BUF)",
   "unit": "dbh",
   "measurement_height_in": 54,
   "multi_trunk": "Per DBH (BUF guidance)",
   "dead_hazard": "NO self-help: removal requires permit; only the Director may act on written manifest-danger-and-immediate-necessity determination (810A(b)(4), 806); 30-day posted notice for removals (806(b)(3)(B)); landmark removals: Public Works public hearing (Director's decision appealable to Board of Appeals)",
   "fee": "2026-2027 Bureau of Urban Forestry Permit Fee Schedule (eff. July 1, 2026): Tree Removal Permit Application Fee $499 (1-3 trees, non construction related), $1,004 (1-3 trees, construction related), $1,337 (4-9 trees), $2,009 (10+ trees); In-Lieu Tree Fee $2,646 per tree; Tree Pruning Permit $441; Tree Protection Plan Review $209; Board of Appeal surcharge $9.",
   "fee_schedule_year": "FY 2026-27 (revision date 7.1.2026)",
   "penalty": "Removal/destruction: $10,000 per tree OR replacement value, WHICHEVER GREATER (811(c)(1)); repeat within 1 yr: $20,000 (811(c)(3)); + misdemeanor <=$1,000/6 mo",
   "arborist_report_required": "no",
   "arborist_report_when": "Not required. PWC 806(b)(3)(A) (which 810A(b)(1) applies to private significant trees) only requires application 'on the designated form'; a Public Works arborist inspects. An ISA Certified Arborist written report appears only under 'Further Recommendations' on the application form and department page. Separate rule: a certified-arborist Tree Protection Plan is required for construction near Street/Significant/Landmark Trees (PWC 808(c)(5)).",
   "department": "SF Public Works, Bureau of Urban Forestry: 628-652-TREE (8733), urbanforestry@sfdpw.org, or 311",
   "permit_service_tier": "A",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "none",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "San Francisco's Public Works Code has no fire provision for significant trees; removal follows the street-tree permit procedure (30-day posted notice) and the Director may order immediate removal only on a written finding of manifest danger and immediate necessity (PWC 810A(b)(4)), with hazard-tree status one of the factors considered (810A(c)(6)).",
   "last_verified": "2026-07-31",
   "sources": "https://bsm.sfdpw.org/buftrees2/application.aspx | https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/san_francisco/latest/sf_publicworks/0-0-0-4154 | https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/san_francisco/latest/sf_publicworks/0-0-0-4237 | https://sfpublicworks.org/node/35251 | https://sfpublicworks.org/sites/default/files/FY%2025-26%20Tree%20Removal%20Application%20fillable%20form.pdf | https://sfpublicworks.org/sites/default/files/permit_fee_schedule.pdf",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-san-francisco/"
  },
  {
   "city": "San Jose",
   "region": "South Bay",
   "code_section": "SJMC Ch. 13.32 (private Tree Removal Controls); Ch. 13.28 (street/heritage)",
   "protected_trees": "Ordinance-size: any tree 38\"+ circumference (~12\" dia); multi-trunk = SUM of circumferences 38\"+. All trees on commercial/multifamily per city practice. Heritage: Council-designated any size. Street trees any size",
   "threshold": "38\" circumference at 54\" above natural grade",
   "unit": "circumference",
   "measurement_height_in": 54,
   "multi_trunk": "Multi-trunk: sum of trunk circumferences (13.32.020.L)",
   "dead_hazard": "Same-day over-the-counter Unsuitable/dead-tree permits at Permit Center (9-11am/1-3pm weekdays) with certified-arborist documentation; no published processing timeline for standard permits",
   "fee": "Eff. Aug 10, 2026: live ordinance-size tree, single-family/duplex $2,587 + $336 Citywide Planning fee (13%); other property $2,985 + $388; dead tree $497 + $64; unsuitable tree $398 + $51; heritage tree $13,185 + $1,714; live and heritage removals also pay public-notice mailing ($601 for a 300-ft radius)",
   "fee_schedule_year": "FY 2026-27",
   "penalty": "Heritage: civil penalty up to $30,000 per tree (3-yr window, 13.28.220.B). Street trees: up to $15,000 per city-published schedule (code sets amounts by council resolution; 13.28.230/.670). Private ordinance-size: administrative citation per council fine schedule (13.32.060). Replacement: SFR 1:1 (15-gal min; 24\" box = 2 credits); other properties up to 5:1 native/4:1 non-native/3:1 orchard",
   "arborist_report_required": "conditional",
   "arborist_report_when": "Required for dead/dying/diseased removals ('Submit the Tree Removal Permit Application with a signed certified arborist report.'), for over-the-counter imminent-hazard Unsuitable Tree Removal Permits ('as evidenced by a signed certified arborist report'), and for live ordinance-size tree removals when staff request it ('City staff may require you to submit a report signed by a certified arborist'). Not required for unsuitable-tree removals (proximity/species list) unless requested.",
   "department": "Planning, Building & Code Enforcement (408) 535-3555",
   "permit_service_tier": "B",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "none",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "San Jose's ordinance has no fire provision; a tree whose trunk is within 5 feet of the dwelling or garage, an invasive/unsuitable species, or an imminently hazardous tree documented by a certified arborist is an 'Unsuitable Tree' that gets the same-day over-the-counter permit, but the five-foot rule is framed as structure proximity, not fire safety (SJMC 13.32.020).",
   "last_verified": "2026-07-31",
   "sources": "https://library.municode.com/ca/san_jose/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=TIT13STSIPUPL_CH13.32TRRECO | https://www.sanjoseca.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/15395/639191046557330000 | https://www.sanjoseca.gov/your-government/departments-offices/planning-building-code-enforcement/planning-division/applications-and-appointments | https://www.sanjoseca.gov/your-government/departments-offices/planning-building-code-enforcement/planning-division/start-a-new-project-or-use/planning-fee-schedule | https://www.sanjoseca.gov/your-government/departments-offices/planning-building-code-enforcement/planning-division/tree-removal-permits",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-san-jose/"
  },
  {
   "city": "San Mateo",
   "region": "Peninsula",
   "code_section": "SMMC Ch. 13.40 (Protected Trees, Ord. 2021-13); 27.71 (development)",
   "protected_trees": "Oaks (Quercus spp.): 10\" dia (31.4\" circ); ANY other species: 15\" dia (47.1\" circ). Street trees: any pruning/removal needs permit. Major pruning = >25% crown, root cuts within 6x trunk-dia radius, or topping",
   "threshold": "10\" (oaks) / 15\" (others) dia at 54\" above natural grade",
   "unit": "dbh",
   "measurement_height_in": 54,
   "multi_trunk": "Per Administrative Guidelines",
   "dead_hazard": "NO expedited/self-help track; dead = approval criterion (13.40.100(b)(3)); hazard applications get priority review; replacement still owed (15-gal for dead trees)",
   "fee": "FY 26-27 (eff. 7/1/2026): Protected Tree Removal (CDD) $100; Heritage/Street Tree Permit (P&R) $113; in-lieu: 15-gal $528, 24\" box $845",
   "fee_schedule_year": "FY 2026-27 (Adopted Comprehensive Fee Schedule, July 1, 2026 - June 30, 2027)",
   "penalty": "Civil penalty UP TO $10,000 per participant per tree (Ch. 1.11 scale, 13.40.160) + unpermitted removals replaced with one 48\" box tree (FY26-27 cost $3,376) or enhanced up to Replacement Value (13.40.150)",
   "arborist_report_required": "conditional",
   "arborist_report_when": "Standalone (non-development) removals: optional at initial submittal, may be required later by staff; SMMC 13.40.100 lets the Managing Arborist require a Certified Arborist's report. Required when: (a) Major Pruning (pruning specifications by a Certified Arborist, 13.40.100); (b) removing/pruning more than 5 trees (ISA Certified Arborist report, application form); (c) development-related removals (arborist report must show tree cannot be saved and cite a 13.40.100 criterion). Risk-based requests: report from an ISA Qualified Tree Risk Assessor 'is recommended and may be required' (application form).",
   "department": "Split: CDD/Building intake (non-development), Building (650) 522-7172; Parks & Rec Tree Division (street/heritage): (650) 522-7420, treepermits@cityofsanmateo.org",
   "permit_service_tier": "A",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "none",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "San Mateo's ordinance is silent on fire; the Managing Arborist decides removal permits on tree condition, danger to people or property, structures/utilities, economic enjoyment, erosion, neighborhood and parcel capacity, and gives priority to hazard-based applications (SMMC 13.40.100(b)).",
   "last_verified": "2026-07-31",
   "sources": "https://cityofsanmateoca-energovweb.tylerhost.net/apps/selfservice#/home | https://law.cityofsanmateo.org/us/ca/cities/san-mateo/code/13.40 | https://law.cityofsanmateo.org/us/ca/cities/san-mateo/code/13.40.100 | https://law.cityofsanmateo.org/us/ca/cities/san-mateo/code/13.40.110 | https://law.cityofsanmateo.org/us/ca/cities/san-mateo/code/13.40.120 | https://www.cityofsanmateo.org/4916/Tree-RemovalPruning-Permit-Non-Developme | https://www.cityofsanmateo.org/DocumentCenter/View/105420 | https://www.cityofsanmateo.org/DocumentCenter/View/106722/Private-Property-Protected-Tree-Permit-Application---CDD_Revised-7726 | https://www.cityofsanmateo.org/DocumentCenter/View/55778/Tree-Diameter-MeasurementGuide | https://www.cityofsanmateo.org/FAQ.aspx?QID=679 | https://www.cityofsanmateo.org/3371/Heritage-Tree-and-Street-Tree-Permits",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-san-mateo/"
  },
  {
   "city": "San Mateo County (unincorporated)",
   "region": "Peninsula",
   "code_section": "San Mateo County Ordinance Code Title 8, Art. 7, Ch. 8.400 Protected Tree Ordinance, secs. 8.400.010-8.400.290 (Ord. 4895, adopted 10/22/2024), which rescinded and replaced the former Ch. 8.400 Significant Tree Regulations (Sec. 12,000 et seq.) and Ch. 8.404 Heritage Tree Regulations (Sec. 11,000 et seq., 1977)",
   "protected_trees": "Protected trees (8.400.060): (1) ANY species 12.1\" diameter (38\" circumference) or larger at 4.5 ft; (2) Protected Indigenous Trees per Table 1 at lower sizes: bigleaf maple, box elder, Pacific madrone, California buckeye, golden chinquapin, Oregon ash, Santa Cruz cypress, California sycamore, coast live oak, canyon live oak, blue oak, Shreve oak, black oak, valley oak, interior live oak and California nutmeg at 10\"; Douglas fir and coast redwood at 18\"; white/red alder and Fremont cottonwood 6\" within riparian corridors; willows any size in riparian corridors and 6\" trunks outside; Oregon white oak any size; (3) Board-designated Heritage Trees; (4) replacement trees and trees retained by a permit/development condition or enforcement action; (5) a 'community of trees' (five or more same-species indigenous trees over 6\" DSH on one parcel, or an ecologically related group); (6) carbon-sequestration/mitigation trees. In the Emerald Lake Hills, Oak Knoll Manor, Palomar Park and Devonshire design review districts ANY tree 6\" diameter (19\" circumference) or larger is protected (8.400.070). RM and TPZ (and RM/CZ, PAD, TPZ/CZ outside the Midcoast urban area) parcels outside scenic corridors need no permit under this chapter (8.400.080-.090). Pruning permits: cuts 6\" or larger on indigenous trees, any oak 30\" DSH+ in urban areas, any heritage tree.",
   "threshold": "12.1\" DSH / 38\" circumference (any species); indigenous species 10\" (most), 18\" (redwood, Douglas fir), 6\" (riparian alder/cottonwood/willow), any size (Oregon white oak); 6\" DSH / 19\" circumference in Emerald Lake Hills, Oak Knoll Manor, Palomar Park and Devonshire DR districts; all at 4.5 ft (54\")",
   "unit": "dbh",
   "measurement_height_in": 54,
   "multi_trunk": "8.400.030(12): 'Measurement of multi-trunk trees is determined by adding the largest stem diameter to one-half of the next two largest stem diameters, measured at 4.5 feet (54 inches) above natural grade.' A multi-trunk tree has more than one major stem from a single root mass at ground level or just above the trunk flare, excluding suckers and root sprouts (8.400.030(20)).",
   "dead_hazard": "DEAD trees need no permit (8.400.100(8)); 'dead tree' = no longer alive or in advanced decline with less than 10% natural vigor 'as determined by a Certified or Consulting Arborist; or can otherwise be shown to be dead as determined by the Director of Planning and Building' (8.400.030(8)); County page: notifying Planning staff first is 'highly recommended'. EMERGENCY (8.400.230): a protected tree may be removed or severely pruned without a prior permit where it 'presents an imminent danger to life, property, utilities, or essential transportation systems, or a tree risk rating of High or Extreme is present, as assessed by an ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualified Arborist (TRAQ)'; the owner must notify the Director (or the Sheriff after hours), photograph the tree, and within 72 hours submit photos and a TRAQ arborist's written verification; replacement trees are required; otherwise it is treated as a violation. Emergency Tree Removal Permit fee $221. FIRE-RISK SPECIES exemption (8.400.100(4)): eucalyptus, pines, acacia, tanoak and bay laurel with the trunk within 100 ft of any habitable structure (including neighbours') or 30 ft of an evacuation road need no permit unless 38\" DSH or larger; defensible-space removals identified by CAL FIRE, the County Fire Marshal or local fire authority in High/Very High fire hazard zones are also exempt ((5)). Separate annual Director notice 'Permit Exemption for Hazardous Trees - Extended to July 1, 2027' (dated July 1, 2026) waives permits and fees for the same five species within 100 ft of a habitable structure or 30 ft of an emergency-evacuation road; the page is headed 'Only applicable to the Coastal Zone' (where the old Significant Tree Regulations still apply). Hazard trees not meeting the emergency test go through the normal permit with an arborist report; High/Extreme ratings need a TRAQ arborist's ISA Basic Tree Risk Assessment Form.",
   "fee": "Planning Service Fee Schedule (updated 07/09/2026; Res. 080751 effective April 1, 2026, amended by Res. 082009 adopted June 23, 2026, effective July 23, 2026), 'Tree Permits': Protected Tree Removal Permit $444 per tree; Protected Tree Pruning Permit $331 per tree; Expedited Tree Removal Permit $221 per tree; Emergency Tree Removal Permit $221; Heritage Tree - New Designation $3,883; Appeal of Any Permit $2,021; violation fees charged at ten times the amount for tree cutting/trimming violations. In-lieu replacement fee $3,345 per tree not replaced on site (8.400.160(3)). CONFLICT: the County's Tree Trimming and Removal Permit web page still states 'Approximate Fee: Protected Tree (Removal: $670 / Pruning: $550), Expedited Removal: $430' (undated); the adopted schedule governs. Other department review fees (geotechnical, Public Works, Environmental Health, fire) may apply.",
   "fee_schedule_year": "FY 2026-27 (Planning Service Fee Schedule effective July 23, 2026; updated 07/09/2026)",
   "penalty": "Table 3 (8.400.260) fines per tree by cumulative inches of DSH removed: first violation $1,500 (12-24\" DSH) / $4,500 (25-48\") / $7,500 (over 48\"); second violation $4,500 / $10,500 / $18,000; third $7,500 / $15,000 / $22,500; served on the record owner and may also be served on the person doing the work; each tree is a separate infraction. Plus cease-work order, mitigation plan with new arborist report and replacement at the Director's discretion, stop-work on development until mitigation is installed and fees paid, a development moratorium of up to 18 months for violations outside development, a non-revocable maintenance bond, and a recorded notice of violation (8.400.250-.280). Fee schedule: violation permit fees at ten times the normal amount.",
   "arborist_report_required": "yes",
   "arborist_report_when": "Every Protected Tree Removal Permit and Protected Tree Pruning Permit application (8.400.120(2): 'An arborist report, consistent with this ordinance and its companion document'); the County application form (updated 04/21/2026) says 'Please refer to the Arborist Report Template for guidance on preparing a complete report' and sanmateocountytrees.org: 'Reports are required with a protected tree removal or protected tree pruning permit application'. NOT required for an Expedited Tree Removal Permit for the listed species (acacia, fruit/nut trees, tree of heaven, Italian cypress, eucalyptus, Monterey cypress outside the Coastal Zone, privet, sweetgum, tanoak, magnolia, myoporum, olive, pines, ornamental pear, pepper tree, bay laurel, palms except Canary Island date palm; max 3 trees per parcel per year), which needs photos only (8.400.130(2)). Emergency removals need a TRAQ arborist's written verification within 72 hours (8.400.230(2)). Dead-tree exemption rests on a certified/consulting arborist's determination (8.400.030(8)). Development applications need an Existing Tree Plan and Tree Protection Plan prepared by a certified arborist (8.400.170). The 8.400.120 list also allows the Director to require a licensed architect/engineer report where structural damage is claimed.",
   "department": "San Mateo County Planning and Building Department, Current Planning Section, 455 County Center, 2nd Floor (Mail Drop PLN 122), Redwood City 94063; (650) 363-4161 (fee schedule and application form); Planning Desk (650) 363-1825; planningprojects@smcgov.org (applications may be emailed); online via Accela https://aca-prod.accela.com/smcgov; companion site https://sanmateocountytrees.org/",
   "permit_service_tier": "B",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "exempt",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "No permit is needed to remove eucalyptus, pine, acacia, tanoak or bay laurel under 38 inches diameter whose trunk is within 100 feet of a habitable structure or 30 feet of an evacuation road, or to remove any protected tree identified by CAL FIRE, the County Fire Marshal or the local fire authority as needed for defensible space in a High or Very High fire hazard zone (County Ord. Code 8.400.100(4)-(5)).",
   "last_verified": "2026-10-12",
   "sources": "https://www.smcgov.org/media/151536/download?inline= | https://www.smcgov.org/planning/tree-trimming-and-removal-permit | https://www.smcgov.org/planning/tree-ordinances-update-project | https://www.smcgov.org/media/160187/download | https://www.smcgov.org/media/73156/download?inline= | https://www.smcgov.org/planning/tree-removal-permit-application | https://www.smcgov.org/planning/news/permit-exemption-hazardous-trees-extended-july-1-2027 | https://sanmateocountytrees.org/ | https://sanmateocountytrees.org/permit-requirements",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-san-mateo-county/"
  },
  {
   "city": "San Rafael",
   "region": "Marin",
   "code_section": "SRMC Ch. 11.12 (street/sidewalk trees ONLY); 4.12 (vegetation mgmt); 14.12/14.25 (development review)",
   "protected_trees": "NO private-property protected-tree ordinance, no species list, no thresholds, no permit for private removals. Street/sidewalk trees: Public Works permit. Fire code: junipers, bamboo, acacia, Italian cypress MUST be removed within 5-30 ft of structures (4.12.030(B)(5))",
   "threshold": "N/A, no private threshold",
   "unit": "none",
   "measurement_height_in": null,
   "multi_trunk": "N/A",
   "dead_hazard": "N/A, no private permit regime; defensible space enforced by Fire Dept",
   "fee": "None (no private permit)",
   "fee_schedule_year": "N/A (verified against SRMC Municode version Aug 11, 2026)",
   "penalty": "General code penalties only: infraction/misdemeanor <=$500; civil <=$500/day; admin <=$500/day capped $100k (Titles 1); street-tree violations = public nuisance (11.12.100); wildfire citations from $250",
   "arborist_report_required": "no",
   "arborist_report_when": "Not applicable: San Rafael has no private-property tree removal permit. SRMC Chapter 11.12 (Trees) regulates only trees 'in, upon or along any public street, sidewalk or walkway' and is administered by the Public Works Department. Title 14 (Zoning) chapter list (Municode, current through Supp. 37, online Aug 11, 2026) contains no tree-preservation or heritage-tree chapter; tree review arises only through discretionary development review (e.g., 14.12 Hillside overlay, 14.25 Environmental and Design Review) for development projects. Adopted-but-uncodified ordinances listed on Municode (Ords. 2058-2064, Feb-Jun 2026) do not include a tree ordinance.",
   "department": "Public Works (street trees); Fire Dept defensible space: (415) 485-3054, srfd.dspace@cityofsanrafael.org; Planning (415) 485-3085",
   "permit_service_tier": "none",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "none",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "San Rafael has no private tree removal permit (SRMC 11.12 regulates only trees in, upon or along public streets and sidewalks), so no fire exemption is needed; defensible space is enforced by the San Rafael Fire Department's Wildfire Mitigation team.",
   "last_verified": "2026-07-31",
   "sources": "SRMC Ch. 11.12; https://www.cityofsanrafael.org/issues/vegetation-management/ | https://library.municode.com/ca/san_rafael/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=TIT11PUWO_CH11.12TR | https://www.cityofsanrafael.org/encroachment-permits/ | https://www.cityofsanrafael.org/issues/vegetation-management/ | https://www.cityofsanrafael.org/protecting-your-home-from-wildfire/",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-san-rafael/"
  },
  {
   "city": "Santa Clara",
   "region": "South Bay",
   "code_section": "SCCC Ch. 12.35 (Trees and Shrubs)",
   "protected_trees": "Specimen trees (9 species groups: CA buckeye, big leaf maple, deodar cedar, blue Atlas cedar, camphor, western sycamore, native oaks, coast redwood, bay laurel): 12\"+ DIAMETER. ALL other private trees: 38\"+ DIAMETER (not circumference). Heritage (all districts) + development-approval trees + street trees any size",
   "threshold": "12\" dia (specimen) / 38\" dia (any species), at 54\" above grade; multibranched: 38\" below first fork",
   "unit": "dbh",
   "measurement_height_in": 54,
   "multi_trunk": "Multibranched: >=38\" below the first fork",
   "dead_hazard": "Unsuitable-species approval finding for SFR lots (12.35.090(c)(4)(F)), permit still required; no self-help exemption",
   "fee": "Input had no dollar figure. Planning Application Fee Schedule, 'Fees Effective July 1, 2026', Resolution 26-9552 adopted April 21, 2026, last revised 09/11/2026: TREE REMOVAL - Heritage Tree $904.00; Single Family $320.00; All Others $612.00. Public Works lines on same schedule: Tree Removal (per tree) $1,116.00; Tree Planting In-lieu for Private Development Tree Removal (per tree) $2,111.00. 'No fee shall be refunded because of the denial of any application.'",
   "fee_schedule_year": "FY 2026/27 (effective July 1, 2026)",
   "penalty": "Monetary penalty <=$5,000 + (for substantial injury/removal) the monetary value of the tree, per tree, + city cost recovery (12.35.140-.150). No treble multiplier (Civ. Code 3346 is a private civil action)",
   "arborist_report_required": "yes",
   "arborist_report_when": "Every application for a protected-tree removal permit (SCCC 12.35.090(c)(2)(C)); also item VI of the Planning Division 'Application Checklist - Tree Removal Permit (Planning)' (Rev. 09/23). For development requiring a discretionary permit and hearing, an ISA-certified tree survey and written report are also required (12.35.100(a)).",
   "department": "Community Development, Planning (408) 615-2450, planning@santaclaraca.gov; street trees: DPW (408) 615-3080",
   "permit_service_tier": "A",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "none",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "Santa Clara's ordinance has no fire provision; the city approves a protected-tree removal only on findings such as disease, danger of falling, potential damage to essential structures, trunk within five feet of the residence or garage, or listed unsuitable species on single-family lots (SCCC 12.35.090(c)(4)), and the five-foot rule is framed as structure proximity rather than fire safety.",
   "last_verified": "2026-07-31",
   "sources": "https://ecode360.com/47550110 | https://www.santaclaraca.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/81031/639189374737370000 | https://www.santaclaraca.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/81733/638312399517270000 | https://www.santaclaraca.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/82073/639051875499930000 | https://www.santaclaraca.gov/our-city/departments-a-f/community-development/planning-division",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-santa-clara/"
  },
  {
   "city": "Saratoga",
   "region": "South Bay",
   "code_section": "City Code Art. 15-50 (Tree Regulations)",
   "protected_trees": "Protected: NATIVE trees 6\"+ DBH (10 species: coast live/valley/tan/black/blue/scrub oak, big leaf maple, CA buckeye, Douglas fir, coast redwood, NOT madrone); ANY other tree 10\"+ DBH; street trees, heritage trees, approval-condition trees: any size",
   "threshold": "6\" (natives) / 10\" (others) DBH at 4.5 ft",
   "unit": "dbh",
   "measurement_height_in": 54,
   "multi_trunk": "Multi-trunk DBH = largest trunk + 50% of diameter of each additional trunk (15-50.020(g))",
   "dead_hazard": "Emergency removal only ON ORDER of City Manager, PW/CDD Director (or designees), Peace Officer, or fire department (15-50.060(a)); Director must decide applications within 30 DAYS (15-50.080(c)); 15-day appeal period (waived for dead/near-building/ember-zone trees)",
   "fee": "Eff. 1/5/2026: $151 per tree; after-the-fact $658 flat (<=3 trees); waived for dead/fallen (verified) + qualifying WUI species (Monterey pine, blue gum)",
   "fee_schedule_year": "FY 2026-27 (effective July 1, 2026)",
   "penalty": "Public nuisance + infraction; civil penalty up to $5,000 per tree OR replacement value (excl. installation) if greater; equivalent-value replacement (cash to Tree Fund DOUBLED for installation); 5-yr maintenance bond (15-50.170). NO 3x multiplier",
   "arborist_report_required": "conditional",
   "arborist_report_when": "Mandatory for any application for discretionary development approval that would remove a protected tree, and for other projects where the Community Development Director determines it necessary (15-50.130). For a stand-alone tree removal/pruning/encroachment permit the Director 'may' require a written report from an ISA Certified Arborist and/or City Arborist review, at applicant's expense (15-50.080(b)); otherwise the City Arborist performs a field inspection. The Tree Permit Application form (rev. 9/19/25) lists no arborist-report item.",
   "department": "Community Development (408) 868-1222; City Arborist (408) 868-1276",
   "permit_service_tier": "A",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "expedited",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "A permit is still required, but for a protected tree whose main trunk is within five feet of a building the Community Development Director may skip neighbor notice and issue the permit with no appeal period, and defensible-space removals within 100 feet of a structure in the WUI, ember-resistant-zone removals, and any Monterey pine or blue gum in the WUI are express grounds for approval (City Code 15-50.070(b), 15-50.080(a)(11)-(13)).",
   "last_verified": "2026-07-31",
   "sources": "https://library.municode.com/ca/saratoga/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=CH15ZORE_ART15-50TRRE | https://www.saratoga.ca.us/150/Community-Development | https://www.saratoga.ca.us/171/Trees | https://www.saratoga.ca.us/150/Community-Development | https://www.saratoga.ca.us/DocumentCenter/View/6130/Tree-Permit-Application_91925_Fillable | https://www.saratoga.ca.us/DocumentCenter/View/6199/Fee-Schedule-Effective-January-5-2026-",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-saratoga/"
  },
  {
   "city": "Sausalito",
   "region": "Marin",
   "code_section": "SMC Ch. 11.12 Preservation of Trees and Views (Ord. 1050, 1989; Ord. 1107, 1995; Ord. 1246, 2017; Ord. 1286, 2022; 11.12.050 repealed by Ord. 07-2025)",
   "protected_trees": "Protected on all private property: coast live oak (Quercus agrifolia) 4\" DBH or larger; heritage trees (any species 10\" DBH) and Council-dedicated trees. On undeveloped private property: any tree 4\" DBH or larger. All trees and shrubs on City property. Seven 'undesirable' (flammable) species are never protected: blue gum eucalyptus, Monterey pine, Monterey cypress, coast redwood, blackwood acacia, Bailey acacia, green wattle.",
   "threshold": "4\" DBH coast live oak (any private lot) / 10\" DBH any other species on developed lots / 4\" DBH any species on undeveloped lots, at 4.5 ft",
   "unit": "dbh",
   "measurement_height_in": 54,
   "multi_trunk": "Multi-trunked trees: the diameter of the two largest trunks combined (11.12.020(D))",
   "dead_hazard": "No dead-tree exemption (only 'routine pruning', the removal of dead parts, is exempt). Emergency: if personal injury or property damage is imminently threatened (likelihood of failure 'probable' or 'imminent' and risk 'high' or 'extreme' under ISA protocols) the Fire Chief, Chief of Police or City Engineer, in consultation with an arborist, may authorize removal without a permit; it must be reported to Community Development on the first business day after the work (11.12.030(F))",
   "fee": "Tree Permit: Protected Tree (private or public property) $1,171 first tree + $88 each additional tree (Planning); View Claim $3,602 first tree + $88 each additional; Public Works Tree Alteration/Removal Permit (City trees) $176",
   "fee_schedule_year": "City of Sausalito Master Fee Schedule FY 2025-26, adopted fees effective July 1, 2025 (Planning section lines 36-42; Public Works line 66); still the schedule linked from the City's Fees and Charges page and the Planning forms page on 2026-10-12",
   "penalty": "Tree-specific penalty section 11.12.050 'Enforcement and penalties' was repealed by Ord. 07-2025; no penalty remains in Ch. 11.12 (general code enforcement provisions of the SMC apply, not reviewed). Replacement with a desirable tree or a Council-set tree replacement fee is a condition of every removal permit (11.12.030(B)(2)); construction damage to a protected tree requires replacement on the same site (11.12.030(C)(5))",
   "arborist_report_required": "yes",
   "arborist_report_when": "Every tree removal/alteration permit application: SMC 11.12.030(A)(1)(a) requires the application to be accompanied by an arborist report; the City's Application Instructions state 'An arborist report is required for all applications' and the Arborist Report Requirements sheet prescribes its content (site plan with trunk location, DBH, height, driplines, species and appraised value; photographs; written report covering reasons, ISA appraised value, hazard, effects on neighboring vegetation and soil stability, stump/root removal, replacement suggestions). View claims also require an arborist report (11.12.040(C)(1)).",
   "department": "Community Development Department, Planning Division, 420 Litho Street, Sausalito 94965 (accepts applications, issues tags/notices and permits); Planning Commission decides permits for protected trees on private developed property; City Engineer/Public Works for City-owned trees and right-of-way",
   "permit_service_tier": "C",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "none",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "Sausalito's ordinance has no fire exemption; blue gum eucalyptus, Monterey pine, Monterey cypress, coast redwood and three acacias are 'undesirable trees' that are never protected (SMC 11.12.020), and otherwise a protected tree may be removed without a permit only when the Fire Chief, Police Chief or City Engineer, with an arborist, finds an imminent ISA high/extreme risk (11.12.030(F)).",
   "last_verified": "2026-10-12",
   "sources": "https://ecode360.com/47137831 | https://ecode360.com/SA4880 | https://www.sausalito.gov/departments/public_works/trees_and_views.php | https://www.sausalito.gov/departments/community_development/planning_division/planning_forms_guidelines.php | https://www.sausalito.gov/Documents/Departments/Community%20Development/Planning%20Division/Planning%20Forms%20and%20Guidelines/TreeRemovalAlterationPermi%20%20Fillable.pdf | https://www.sausalito.gov/Documents/Departments/Public%20Works/Trees%20and%20Views/Tree%20Permit%20Application%20Instructions.pdf | https://www.sausalito.gov/Documents/Departments/Public%20Works/Trees%20and%20Views/Arborists%20Report%20Requirements.pdf | https://www.sausalito.gov/Documents/Departments/Public%20Works/Trees%20and%20Views/Tree%20Removal%20Permit%20Process%20%20Private%20Property.pdf | https://www.sausalito.gov/government/transparency/fees_and_charges.php | https://www.sausalito.gov/Documents/Government/Transparency/Fees%20and%20Charges/City_of_Sausalito_Master_Fee_Schedule_for_FY202526.pdf",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-sausalito/"
  },
  {
   "city": "South San Francisco",
   "region": "Peninsula",
   "code_section": "SSFMC Ch. 13.30 Tree Preservation (Ord. 1060, 1989; Ord. 1271, 2000; Ord. 1514, 2016)",
   "protected_trees": "Three circumference tiers for upright, single-trunked trees measured 54\" above natural grade: heritage species (California bay, oak (Quercus spp.), cedar (Cedrus spp.), California buckeye, Catalina ironwood, strawberry tree (Arbutus spp.), mayten, Little Gem dwarf southern magnolia) 30\" circumference; listed species (blue gum eucalyptus, black acacia, myoporum, sweetgum, glossy privet, Lombardy poplar) 75\" circumference; any other species 48\" circumference; plus director-designated unique trees/stands and interdependent stands. City/street trees are maintained by the City (Street Tree Ordinance).",
   "threshold": "48\" circumference any species (30\" heritage species; 75\" blue gum, black acacia, myoporum, sweetgum, glossy privet, Lombardy poplar), measured 54\" above natural grade",
   "unit": "circumference",
   "measurement_height_in": 54,
   "multi_trunk": "Multi-stemmed specimen (two or more trunks connected above ground): measure all trunks at 54\" above natural grade and add the full circumference of the largest trunk to one-half the circumference of each additional trunk (13.30.020 'Upright, single-trunked tree')",
   "dead_hazard": "No dead-tree exemption; emergency removal, pruning or trimming 'because of disease, or danger to life or property' may be ordered by the director (or, if unavailable, a responsible member of police, fire, parks and recreation or public works), with a report to the commission and a retroactive permit application (13.30.070); the director gives priority to applications 'based on hazard or danger of disease' (13.30.060(b))",
   "fee": "$121 non-refundable application fee per tree (removal or pruning) plus $368 refundable tree planting deposit per tree removed ($489 total per removal); deposit forfeited to the Tree Planting Fund if replanting is not proven within 4 months",
   "fee_schedule_year": "FY 2026-27 Protected Tree Pruning or Removal Permit Application (Parks and Recreation) and the city's Trees page; the City's master fee schedule PDF for FY 2026-27 was not located on ssfca.gov",
   "penalty": "Damages equal to twice the replacement value of the tree (ISA standards or city arborist appraisal), not to exceed $1,000, in addition to any other penalties allowed by law (13.30.140); unpermitted removal requires three 24\" box minimum landscape trees per tree, or payment of their current cost not to exceed $1,000 if not planted within 4 months (13.30.080(b)); payments go to the tree planting fund",
   "arborist_report_required": "conditional",
   "arborist_report_when": "Not required with the application. The director 'may require the applicant to provide a city arborist's report' when reviewing a removal or pruning application (13.30.060(b)); the department's own representative inspects every protected tree and files a written report (13.30.060(a)). The FY 26-27 application asks only for a current color photograph, 'any documentation supporting the condition or need for the pruning or removal', documentation (photos and receipts) if infrastructure damage is claimed, and says 'INCLUDE ANY RELEVANT PHOTOGRAPHS, NOTICES, OR AROBORIST REPORTS THAT YOU HAVE REGARDING THE TREE.' The city page recommends hiring an ISA certified arborist and says to 'hire a professional in the field of arboriculture' if unsure whether a tree is protected.",
   "department": "Parks and Recreation Department, Parks, Facilities and Common Greens Division, 550 N. Canal Street, South San Francisco 94080; apply by email (jeanette.yoshida@ssfca.gov per the FY 26-27 form) or through the online permitting center (ssfca.my.site.com); director of parks and recreation decides, Parks and Recreation Commission hears appeals",
   "permit_service_tier": "A",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "none",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "South San Francisco's ordinance is silent on fire; a protected tree may be removed without a prior permit only in an emergency ordered by the director (or police, fire, parks or public works staff) for disease or danger to life or property, with a report to the commission and a retroactive permit (SSFMC 13.30.070).",
   "last_verified": "2026-10-12",
   "sources": "https://ecode360.com/43447116 | https://www.ssfca.gov/trees | https://www.ssfca.gov/files/assets/public/v/4/parks-and-recreation/documents/parks/application-for-protected-tree-permit-fy-26-27.pdf",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-south-san-francisco/"
  },
  {
   "city": "Sunnyvale",
   "region": "South Bay",
   "code_section": "SMC Ch. 19.94 (Tree Preservation); 13.16 (street trees)",
   "protected_trees": "ONE species-neutral threshold: 38\"+ circumference (~12.1\" dia). No heritage category (19.96 landmarks separate). Street trees: permit for all work (minor hand-tool pruning <1\" branches exempt)",
   "threshold": "38\" circumference at 4.5 ft (54\") above ground",
   "unit": "circumference",
   "measurement_height_in": 54,
   "multi_trunk": "Any one trunk >=38\" circ, OR all trunks totaling >=113\" circ (19.94.030)",
   "dead_hazard": "No self-help exemption published; file at least 10 working days before proposed removal (19.94.050); city decides 'usually within 2 weeks'",
   "fee": "Planning Division Fees, Fiscal Year 2026-2027 (Effective August 18, 2026; updated 8/26/2026): Tree Removal Permit $406.00 + 5% technology fee = $426.30 total; Tree Removal Permit (w/Certified Arborist Report) $223.00 + 5% = $234.15 total; Tree Removal Permit (by PG&E) No Fee. Tree replacement in-lieu fees: 15 gallon $551; 24\" box $101 (as printed); 36\" box $1,103; 48\" box $2,205. Input's FY 25/26 figures were $406.35 / $224.70.",
   "fee_schedule_year": "FY 2026-27 (effective August 18, 2026)",
   "penalty": "Per tree: $5,000-$25,000 (substantial injury/damage); $10,000-$50,000 (destruction/improper removal) + city expenses & attorneys' fees; liens (19.94.160). Replacement discretionary: 24\" box min; in-lieu $530-$2,120",
   "arborist_report_required": "conditional",
   "arborist_report_when": "Not required for a standard private protected-tree removal permit: the Tree Removal Permit Checklist (Rev. 12/2022) lists only Owner Certification, tree information (number, location, type/size, reason) and the non-refundable fee, and states the City Arborist and Planning staff inspect the tree(s). A certified arborist report is optional and reduces the fee (separate fee line). An ISA-certified arborist tree survey is required only when site development needs a discretionary permit and public hearing (SMC 19.94.110(a)).",
   "department": "Community Development One-Stop Permit Center (408) 730-7444; street trees: PW Parks & Trees (408) 730-7506",
   "permit_service_tier": "A",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "none",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "Sunnyvale's ordinance has no fire provision; a protected tree permit may be approved if the tree is diseased or damaged, represents a potential hazard to people, structures or other trees, or restricts reasonable use (SMC 19.94.060), and the chapter is waived only for rescue or utility repair in natural-disaster emergencies (19.94.150).",
   "last_verified": "2026-07-31",
   "sources": "https://ecode360.com/42733058 | https://sunnyvale.ca.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/3891/638024783611830000 | https://www.sunnyvale.ca.gov/business-and-development/planning-and-building/permit-center | https://www.sunnyvale.ca.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/1710/638098023586530000 | https://www.sunnyvale.ca.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/6111/639240165838170000",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-sunnyvale/"
  },
  {
   "city": "Tiburon",
   "region": "Marin",
   "code_section": "TMC Ch. 15A (Trees); Ch. 15 (View and Sunlight Obstruction)",
   "protected_trees": "Protected: (1) heritage = any tree >60\" circumference at 24\" above ground (~19\" dia); (2) ALL listed oaks any size (coast live, blue, CA black, interior live, canyon live, Engelmann, valley); (3) Council-dedicated trees. 'Undesirable trees' (blue gum eucalyptus, Monterey pine, Monterey cypress, coast redwood, other fast-growing): permit-favored removal path",
   "threshold": "60\" circumference at 24\" above ground (heritage); oaks any size",
   "unit": "circumference",
   "measurement_height_in": 24,
   "multi_trunk": "Per trunk circumference",
   "dead_hazard": "Emergency removal/alteration authorized only by police chief, PW superintendent, planning director, or town manager (fire marshal DECLARES hazard but does not authorize), report next business day (15A-4(b)); permit ineffective for 10 days after grant (appeal window)",
   "fee": "Tree Permit**: (a) Single tree $170; (b) 2 through 4 trees $260; (c) 5+ trees $280 plus $55 per each additional tree. '**' = 'Initial deposit amount only. Any remainder will be refunded; additional Staff time to process will be billed per the Town's Hourly Rate Schedule(s)'. Input's '$280 single tree' and 'flat, not deposits' are both contradicted by the adopted schedule; $280 is the 5+ tree tier and all tree-permit fees are deposits. The Town's Forms & Fees page shows the same three tiers.",
   "fee_schedule_year": "Community Development Department and Miscellaneous Services Fee Schedule, Resolution No. 32-2015, effective 10/18/2015 (still the schedule linked from the Town's Forms & Fees page as of 2026-10-09; no FY 2026-27 schedule found on townoftiburon.gov)",
   "penalty": "Public-nuisance abatement + full enforcement-cost recovery (15A-10); replacement up to 3:1 discretionary condition (15A-7(b)); no fine schedule in Ch. 15A",
   "arborist_report_required": "conditional",
   "arborist_report_when": "At Planning Director discretion: TMC 15A-5(b) lets the director require 'a report by a certified arborist satisfactory to the town, and/or a tree inventory' when reasonably necessary to make a determination, at applicant cost. The standard Tree Permit Application (Community Development Dept, with Land Development Application rev. 2026) does not list an arborist report among its required attachments (application form, aerial photo/site plan, ribbon-tagged tree photos, optional planting plan); it only advises contacting an arborist if the species is unknown. The director inspects the trees and site within 15 days (15A-6(c)).",
   "department": "Community Development (Planning): (415) 435-7390, planning@townoftiburon.gov",
   "permit_service_tier": "A",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "exempt",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "If the fire marshal declares a tree a fire hazard, the chief of police, public works superintendent, planning director or town manager may authorize its removal without a permit; the removal must be reported to the planning director on the next business day (TMC 15A-4(b)).",
   "last_verified": "2026-07-31",
   "sources": "TMC Ch. 15A; https://townoftiburon.org/503/Tree-Permits | https://www.townoftiburon.gov/503/Tree-Permits | https://library.municode.com/ca/tiburon/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=TITIVLAIMUS_CH15ATR | https://www.townoftiburon.gov/503/Tree-Permits | https://www.townoftiburon.gov/DocumentCenter/View/819 | https://www.townoftiburon.gov/DocumentCenter/View/959",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-tiburon/"
  },
  {
   "city": "Walnut Creek",
   "region": "Contra Costa",
   "code_section": "WCMC Ch. 3-8 (Preservation of Trees on Private Property)",
   "protected_trees": "'Tree': single stem 28\"+ circumference (~9\" dia) OR multi-stem aggregate 40\"+ circ. 'Highly protected': 10 native species (valley/blue/coast live/CA black/canyon live/interior live oak, madrone, buckeye, CA black walnut, grey pine). NO heritage category (the 55\"/35-ft definition is Pleasanton's)",
   "threshold": "28\" circ single / 40\" aggregate multi-stem, at 4.5 ft above natural grade",
   "unit": "circumference",
   "measurement_height_in": 54,
   "multi_trunk": "40\" aggregate circumference multi-stem",
   "dead_hazard": "Hazardous-tree emergency removal by WRITTEN PERMISSION of the Director (3-8.03); applications >=10 days before desired removal (3-8.04)",
   "fee": "$85 application; city arborist performs field evaluation (no applicant arborist report for standalone removals)",
   "fee_schedule_year": "FY2026 & FY2027 Master Fee Schedule (current); FY2027 Adopted Master Fee Schedule effective 1/1/2027",
   "penalty": "Civil: up to $200/inch of circumference (highly protected) or $100/inch (others) if tree dies + appraised-value/replacement-cost difference; severe non-fatal damage: 3x damage or $1,000 whichever greater; + misdemeanor <=$1,000/6 mo or infraction (3-8.08)",
   "arborist_report_required": "conditional",
   "arborist_report_when": "Required when the tree removal involves development: applicant must provide an arborist report with tree survey plan (WCMC 3-8.04(b)); if development and 3 or more trees are proposed for removal, 'or when otherwise required by the Director', an arborist report and tree appraisal are required (3-8.04(c)); Director may waive. Standalone (non-development) removals: no applicant arborist report - the Director/City Arborist visits and inspects the trees (3-8.04(d); city page step 4 'City Arborist Visit'; application form has no arborist-report item).",
   "department": "Public Works, Engineering Services: (925) 943-5839, DutyEngineer@walnut-creek.org (Accela portal)",
   "permit_service_tier": "A",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "none",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "Walnut Creek's ordinance has no fire provision; the Director grants the permit on findings such as danger of falling or proximity to structures that cannot be remedied by less drastic means, or that the tree is a Tasmanian blue gum or Monterey pine (WCMC 3-8.04(d)), and applications are filed at least 10 days before removal.",
   "last_verified": "2026-07-31",
   "sources": "https://aca-prod.accela.com/WC/Default.aspx | https://ecode360.com/48488057 | https://www.walnutcreekca.gov/government/public-works/engineering-services/tree-removal-permit | https://www.walnutcreekca.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/32770/638912803924430000 | https://www.walnutcreekca.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/33252/639070228977370000",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-walnut-creek/"
  },
  {
   "city": "Woodside",
   "region": "Peninsula",
   "code_section": "WMC 153.430-153.439 + 153.005 (Significant Tree table)",
   "protected_trees": "Slower-growing natives (madrone, blue oak, buckeye, alder, big leaf maple, tanbark oak, Fremont cottonwood): 24\" circumference (7.6\" dia). Faster-growing natives (coast live oak, coast redwood, bay laurel, Douglas fir, valley oak, et al.): 30\" circ (9.5\"). ALL other species (incl. unlisted natives): 36\" circ (11.5\")",
   "threshold": "24\"/30\"/36\" circumference at 48 INCHES above mean natural grade",
   "unit": "circumference",
   "measurement_height_in": 48,
   "multi_trunk": "Madrone/blue oak/buckeye: SUM of all trunk circumferences at 48\"; CA bay laurel: largest trunk only",
   "dead_hazard": "No published self-help exemption; Tree Destruction Permit required for any significant tree (153.434)",
   "fee": "$130 flat (FY 26-27, Res. 2026-7819); NO FEE for eucalyptus, acacia, Monterey pine removals or Defensible Space & Home Hardening Program removals",
   "fee_schedule_year": "FY 2026-27 (Schedule of Fees and Charges 'Effective July 1, 2026, Amended: October 1, 2026')",
   "penalty": "$5,000 first significant tree / $7,500 second / $10,000 each additional (153.439; the $212,500/22-tree case = this schedule) + discretionary replacement: CA native, 36\" box min, within 1 yr (153.436(B), 153.438)",
   "arborist_report_required": "conditional",
   "arborist_report_when": "Only at Planning Director discretion, when the applicant's sketch/description/photos are insufficient to determine tree health or hazard (WMC 153.435(B)); Director must notify applicant of the deficiencies within ten days. Approval criterion 153.436(A)(4) (thinning) relies on a certified arborist's recommendation. Routine applications need only sketch, description and ribbon-marked photographs.",
   "department": "Planning (Building, Planning and Public Works/Engineering Department): 650-851-6796 (option 2 for Planning); Town Hall main line 650-851-6790 (still printed on Tree Destruction Permit Application Form #P-28 rev. 7/21/2025); counter hours Mon-Thu 9:00 am-12:00 pm; 2955 Woodside Road",
   "permit_service_tier": "A",
   "fire_mitigation_status": "approval-ground",
   "fire_mitigation_text": "A Tree Destruction Permit is always required, but the Planning Director must grant it when thinning is recommended by the Woodside Fire Protection District for fire protection or the trees are eucalyptus, acacia or Monterey pine (WMC 153.436(A)(4)-(5)); the Town waives the fee for those species and for removals under the Defensible Space and Home Hardening Program.",
   "last_verified": "2026-07-31",
   "sources": "https://library.municode.com/ca/woodside/codes/municipal_code | https://library.municode.com/ca/woodside/codes/municipal_code?nodeId=CD_ORD_TITXVLAUS_CH153ZO_153.430TRPR_S153.431PU | https://library.municode.com/ca/woodside/codes/municipal_code?nodeId=CD_ORD_TITXVLAUS_CH153ZO_153.900PR_S153.918NEAP | https://wood.csqrcloud.com/community-etrakit/ | https://woodsideca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/2061 | https://www.woodsideca.gov/214/Planning ; https://www.woodsideca.gov/449/Online-Services-Contact-Information | https://www.woodsideca.gov/393/Permits | https://www.woodsideca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1102/Tree-Destruction-Permit-Application---07-02-20-24 | https://www.woodsideca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1537 | https://www.woodsideca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1538",
   "page": "https://urbanforestryguide.com/tree-permit-woodside/"
  }
 ]
}