Do I Need a Tree Permit in Burlingame?
Burlingame protects any private tree with a circumference of 44 inches or more — roughly 14 inches in diameter. Here's what you need to know about permits, fees, and penalties before removing a protected tree.
Does my tree need a permit?
Select your tree species and measure the trunk circumference at 54 inches above natural grade to get an instant answer based on Burlingame's ordinance (Chapter 11.06).
Measure circumference at 54 inches above natural grade. Wrap a flexible tape around the trunk. If ≥44 inches, the tree is protected.
What trees are protected in Burlingame?
Burlingame's tree ordinance (Municipal Code Chapter 11.06) uses a single circumference threshold for all species. Any private tree with a circumference of 44 inches or more (approximately 14 inches diameter), measured at 54 inches above natural grade, is protected.
| Category | Protected at | Notes | Penalty |
|---|---|---|---|
| All private trees | ≥44″ circumference | Measured at 54″ above natural grade (approximately 14″ diameter) | $1,000 + appraised value |
| Heritage trees & groves | Any size (designated) | Designated by Beautification Commission | Misdemeanor + 10× permit fee |
| Street trees | Any size | City-owned, in public right-of-way | City replacement + appraised value |
Not sure if your tree qualifies?
Measure the circumference (not diameter) at 54 inches above natural grade. If it's 44 inches or more, you need a permit. Wrap a flexible tape around the trunk — don't estimate. An arborist consultation ($150–$300) is far cheaper than the penalties for unpermitted removal.
How to get a tree removal permit in Burlingame
Burlingame's permit process runs through the Parks Division. Here's the step-by-step sequence:
Measure the trunk
Wrap a flexible tape around the trunk at 54 inches above natural grade. If the circumference is 44 inches or more (roughly 14 inches diameter), the tree is protected and requires a permit. Heritage-designated trees are protected at any size.
Get an arborist report
An ISA Certified Arborist report is required for most protected tree removal applications. The report documents the tree's condition, reason for removal, and whether alternatives are feasible. Budget $300–$600 depending on complexity.
Many tree service companies include the arborist report in their service — confirm before hiring separately.
Submit to Parks Division
File the Tree Removal Permit Application with the Parks Division at (650) 558-7330. Include the arborist report, site plan, and photos. Pay the permit fee (approximately $100) at submission.
City review
A city arborist reviews the application and may visit the property. Heritage trees or groves require Beautification Commission review, which adds time. Standard processing takes approximately 6 weeks.
Heritage tree removals may be referred to the Beautification Commission for a public hearing.
Receive permit and schedule work
Once approved, hire a licensed tree service contractor (CSLB C-61/D-49 license required). The permit must be on-site during removal. Replacement planting may be required per permit conditions.
What happens if you remove a tree without a permit?
Misdemeanor charges + up to 10× the permit fee
Unauthorized removal of a protected tree in Burlingame can be prosecuted as a misdemeanor with fines up to $1,000 per violation plus restitution for the tree's full appraised value. After-the-fact permit fees can be up to 10 times the normal permit fee. The city may also require replacement plantings at a 2:1 or 3:1 ratio. The Beautification Commission actively reviews violations.
A permit costs approximately $100 and takes about 6 weeks. A violation costs $1,000+ plus the tree's appraised value plus replacement plantings. There's no scenario where skipping the permit saves money.
Burlingame Parks Division — contact and resources
Call before you apply
Parks Division staff at (650) 558-7330 can often tell you on the phone whether your tree is likely protected and what documentation you'll need. A 10-minute call can save weeks of back-and-forth.
Frequently asked questions
Does pruning require a permit in Burlingame?
Pruning up to 25% of a protected tree's canopy does not require a permit, as long as it follows ISA pruning standards. Pruning more than 25% of the canopy or more than 15% of the roots requires a permit. Structural pruning on heritage trees should always involve an ISA Certified Arborist.
What if the tree is dead or hazardous?
Dead or imminently hazardous trees may qualify for expedited removal, but you still need permit approval. Document the hazard with photos and contact Parks Division at (650) 558-7330 before proceeding. Emergency removals should be reported to the city within 10 business days.
What about heritage trees and groves?
Heritage trees and groves designated by the Beautification Commission are protected regardless of size. Removal requires Commission review and public notification, adding time to the permit process. Heritage grove protections can extend to groups of trees with historical or ecological significance.
My neighbor's tree overhangs my property — do I need a permit?
You can trim branches back to the property line at your own expense without a city permit (California Civil Code). However, you cannot damage or kill the tree, and if the tree is protected (≥44″ circumference), significant trimming affecting more than 25% of the canopy does require a permit.
Related reading for Burlingame tree owners
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