Tree Permits in Danville
Danville requires a permit to remove 12 protected native species at 10″ diameter; any single-trunk tree 36″ diameter or more at 36″ diameter; memorial tree on public property at any size. Measured as trunk diameter (DBH) at 54″ above grade. Arborist report required in some cases. Permit fee from $249. Verified July 31, 2026.
Last verified · fees checked · Michael Schuck, ISA Certified Arborist WE-15750A, ISA Certified Urban Forest Professional WE-15750AF
Danville tree ordinance at a glance
| 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 |
| Size threshold | 10" dia single (natives) / 36" heritage, at 4.5 ft above natural grade |
| Multi-trunk trees | Natives: 20" combined multi-trunk; heritage limited to single-trunk trees (multi-trunk cannot be heritage) |
| Dead or hazardous trees | Application to Planning; no published self-help exemption |
| Fire-safety removals | Expedited route. 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). Conditions: A written notice from the property owner's fire insurance provider or a fire protection agency (San Ramon Valley Fire) requiring removal of the tree for proximity to the primary residence, defensible space or a fuel break. Immediate-hazard trees may be removed first with an after-the-fact permit (32-79.5.c.1). source · all cities |
| Permit fee (FY 2026) | 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 |
| Permit filing by this practice | $750 flat for one tree, $600 with an arborist report or if you post the notice yourself; city fee above is extra. Paper/email filing at the Permit Center, Planning Division decides in 15 working days, no notice or posting; referral to the Planning Commission is discretionary. Have it filed. |
| Penalties for removal without a permit | 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 | Sometimes required. 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)). Who may write it: 'Tree report' = assessment 'prepared by a certified arborist or member of the International Society of Consulting Arborists' (32-79.2(l)); 'Certified arborist' = as defined by the ISA, or an ASCA consulting arborist approved by the Chief of Planning (32-79.2(a)). |
| Who to call | Planning Division (925) 314-3310, planning@danville.ca.gov · official page |
- : Fee schedule updated (FY 2026): 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),…
Sources: codelibrary.amlegal.com · danville.ca.gov. Urban Forestry Guide is not a city line; for Danville permit questions use the department above.
Does my tree need a permit in Danville?
A permit is required when the tree is protected and meets the size rule. Danville measures trunk diameter (DBH) at 54″ above the ground.
- 12 protected native species (oaks, white alder, CA bay, buckeye, sycamore, madrone, London plane): protected at 10″ diameter
- Any single-trunk tree 36" diameter or more (heritage): protected at 36″ diameter
- Memorial tree on public property: protected at any size
- Multi-trunk trees: Protected natives: multi-trunk trees are protected at 20" combined diameter; heritage status is single-trunk only.
Check my tree in the permit checker
Street trees, city-designated heritage trees and trees required by a development approval are protected at any size in every city. Trees on lot lines belong to both owners.
Does Danville require an arborist report?
Sometimes. 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)).
Who may write it: 'Tree report' = assessment 'prepared by a certified arborist or member of the International Society of Consulting Arborists' (32-79.2(l)); 'Certified arborist' = as defined by the ISA, or an ASCA consulting arborist approved by the Chief of Planning (32-79.2(a)).. None found.
“A tree report shall be submitted as part of the tree removal permit if determined necessary by the Chief of Planning. The adequacy of the tree report shall be subject to determination by the Chief of Planning.” municipal code
How to get a tree removal permit in Danville
- Confirm the tree is protected: listed native species 10 inches or greater single-trunk diameter (or 20 inches combined for multi-trunk) at 4.5 ft, any heritage tree 36 inches or greater, memorial trees, or trees preserved by an approved plan (32-79.4; Tree Removal Requirements sheet REV. 1024). source
- Complete the Tree Removal Permit Application (Planning Division, REV. 1024) with property address and APN, owner/applicant contacts, the tree removal company's name, address, phone and business license number, specific justifications, a site plan showing size and location of the tree(s) relative to structures and property lines, and owner authorization (32-79.6(a)). source
- Submit to the Planning Division, Permit Center, 500 La Gonda Way (planning@danville.ca.gov, 925-314-3310) with the fee: Tree Removal Permit Residential $249, Commercial $664 (Master Fee Schedule FY 2026/27, Development Services fees effective Aug. 3, 2026); the fee is waived for removals required by fire-insurance/fire-agency defensible-space notices, solar access, or dead/dying trees with sufficient evidence (32-79.5(b)). source
- A Project Planner reviews the application; a tree (arborist) report may be requested when the reasons for removal are not clearly visible (32-79.6(c)), and the Chief of Planning may refer the request to the Planning Commission, extending the decision period to 45 days (32-79.7(d)). source
- The Planning Division decides within 15 working days of a complete application and issues the permit listing findings and conditions, including any on-site or off-site replacement trees (32-79.7(a),(e)). source
- Plant replacement trees within 60 days of completing the project and provide proof of planting to the Planning Division within 30 days of planting (32-79.8(h)). source
| Timeline | Decision within 15 working days after filing a complete application (45 days if referred to the Planning Commission; concurrent with any related development entitlement). No posting or neighbor-notice period. “The Planning Division shall render a decision regarding the permit within fifteen (15) working days after the filing of a complete application.” source |
|---|---|
| Appeal | A person aggrieved by the Planning Division decision may appeal to the Planning Commission (and a Planning Commission decision to the Town Council) by paying the appeal fee ($332 per Master Fee Schedule) and filing a written notice of appeal stating specific grounds with the City Clerk within 10 calendar days after the determination (32-79.9). “filing a written notice of appeal, setting forth specific grounds for the appeal, with the City Clerk within ten (10) calendar days after the determination of the Planning Division or Planning Commission.” source |
| Replacement | 32-79.8: for major development projects, one 15-gallon tree for each 2 inches of total trunk diameter removed (rounded up above 0.5 inch); for minor development or no development, one 15-gallon tree for a tree under 20 inches and two 15-gallon trees for a tree 20 inches or greater; the Town may adjust ratios based on an arborist report or environmental study. Replacements must be the same genus/species or from the Town native list, planted on the same property (unless otherwise approved), not within 5 ft of a building, and 5 ft (lots 10,000 sq ft or less) or 10 ft (larger lots) from side and rear lines. Off-site mitigation fee equal to current wholesale cost of required trees (15-gallon counted as 2 inches, 24-inch box as 4 inches). No replacement required for exempt removals (32-79.5.c), natural death at no fault of the owner, or removals for proximity to the residence/defensible space/fuel break per insurer or fire agency notice. source |
| Forms | Tree Removal Permit Application (Planning Division, REV. 1024) · Application Requirements for Tree Removal (Planning Division, REV. 1024) · Planning Reviews page (Permit Center / Planning Division) · Master Fee Schedule FY 2026/27 |
Process verified October 9, 2026 against the city's code, forms and department pages.
The Permit Process: Step by Step
Check if your tree is protected
Identify the species and measure trunk diameter at 4.5 feet above natural grade. Protected: 10"+ for 12 listed native species, 20"+ combined for multi-trunk. Heritage: 36"+ any species, single trunk only. Contact Planning Division: (925) 314-3310 or Planning@danville.ca.gov.
Arborist report (only if requested)
A tree report is required only if the Chief of Planning determines one is necessary, typically where the reason for removal is not clearly visible (Municipal Code 32-79.6(c)). If requested, it must come from a certified arborist or an approved ASCA consulting arborist and document species, trunk diameter, condition, and removal justification.
Submit the tree removal permit application
File with the Town of Danville Planning Division ((925) 314-3310, Planning@danville.ca.gov). Include a site plan showing the trees to be removed, existing buildings, and property lines, your written justification, and the fee in effect at submittal ($249 residential, $664 commercial; waived for defensible-space, solar-access, and dead or dying tree removals with evidence, though the permit is still required).
Planning review and site inspection
Staff reviews the application and may inspect. The Town must decide within 15 working days of a complete application (Municipal Code 32-79.7(a)); decisions may be appealed within 10 days (32-79.9).
Receive approval and conditions
Approved permits specify replacement tree species, sizes, and planting locations. Homeowners plant one 15-gallon tree for a removed tree under 20 inches in diameter, two for 20 inches or greater; major development projects owe one 15-gallon tree per 2 inches of removed diameter (32-79.8). Schedule removal with a licensed contractor.
Plant replacement trees and comply
Plant the specified replacement trees within the required timeframe. Maintain until established. The Town may inspect for compliance. Failure to replant triggers enforcement.
Arborist Notes: Danville
The 36-inch heritage surprise
Any single-trunk tree of any species, native or not, is a heritage tree at 36 inches diameter, measured 4.5 feet above natural grade. Multi-trunk trees cannot qualify. This surprises homeowners more than any other provision I encounter in the San Ramon Valley. The mature front-yard deodar cedar is the usual case. Along Hartz Avenue, London plane is also protected at 10 inches.
Natives at 10 inches
Twelve native species, including six oaks, California bay, buckeye, sycamore, madrone, and white alder, are protected at 10 inches single-trunk or 20 inches combined. Oaks dominate the Blackhawk and Diablo Country Club ridgelines; bay and sycamore line the creeks. A homeowner removing a protected tree under 20 inches plants one 15-gallon tree, two if larger. Development projects owe more.
Fire district versus Town oaks
In Blackhawk, Tassajara, and Magee Ranch the fire district wants fuel reduction and the Town protects the same oaks. I see this repeatedly. The fee is waived for defensible space removals under an insurer or fire-agency notice; the permit is not. Unpermitted removal is a misdemeanor with civil damages of three times the tree's appraised value.
When to call me
The Chief of Planning can require a tree report when the reason for removal is not visible. It must come from an ISA certified arborist or an approved consulting arborist. A report can also adjust mitigation ratios. On interface lots, one assessment covering fire risk and tree value settles it.
Danville neighborhoods: canopy, fire exposure and species
Tap a neighborhood for canopy cover, fire and pest exposure, and common species. Permit facts shown here come from the verified table above.
Select a neighborhood to explore its canopy profile.
Frequently asked questions about tree permits in Danville
Do I need a permit to remove a dead tree in Danville?
Application to Planning; no published self-help exemption (verified 2026-07-31)
What is the fine for removing a tree without a permit in Danville?
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) (verified 2026-07-31)
How long does a tree removal permit take in Danville?
Decision within 15 working days after filing a complete application (45 days if referred to the Planning Commission; concurrent with any related development entitlement). No posting or neighbor-notice period. (verified 2026-07-31)
Does Danville require an arborist report for a tree removal permit?
Sometimes required. 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)). (verified 2026-07-31)
Can I remove a tree for fire safety in Danville without a permit?
Expedited or fee-waived route. 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). (verified 2026-07-31)
How does Danville measure a tree for the permit threshold?
Trunk diameter (DBH) at 54 inches above grade. 10" dia single (natives) / 36" heritage, at 4.5 ft above natural grade (verified 2026-07-31)
What trees are protected under Danville's tree ordinance?
Danville's Municipal Code Division 32-79 protects 12 native species at 10 inches trunk diameter (single trunk) or 20 inches combined for multi-trunk trees: Coast Live Oak, Valley Oak, Canyon Live Oak, Blue Oak, California Black Oak, Interior Live Oak, White Alder, California Bay, California Buckeye, California Sycamore, Madrone, and London Plane Tree. Heritage trees, meaning any single-trunked tree of any species at 36 inches trunk diameter, are also protected, as are memorial trees planted on public property.
What is Danville's heritage tree threshold?
A heritage tree in Danville is any single-trunked tree, regardless of species, with a trunk diameter of 36 inches or greater measured 4.5 feet above natural grade (Danville Municipal Code Div. 32-79; Town Planning Division tree-removal requirements, rev. 10/24). The Town expressly excludes multi-trunk trees from heritage status; a multi-trunk tree is protected only if it is one of the 12 protected native species with trunks totaling 20 inches in combined diameter. This means large ornamental trees, deodars, and other non-native species are protected once they reach 36 inches, even though they aren't on the 12-species native tree list.
What is Danville's tree replacement requirement?
Danville does not use an inch-for-inch rule for homeowners. Homeowners removing a protected tree under 20 inches in diameter must plant one 15-gallon replacement tree (two if 20 inches or greater); major development projects owe one 15-gallon tree per 2 inches of removed trunk diameter, and the Town may adjust the ratio or accept an off-site mitigation fee (Municipal Code 32-79.8, Ord. 2025-03).
How do I apply for a tree removal permit in Danville?
File a Tree Removal Permit application with the Town of Danville Planning Division, including a site plan showing the trees to be removed, existing buildings and property lines, your written justification, and the fee in effect at submittal ($249 residential, $664 commercial under the FY 2026/27 Master Fee Schedule). An arborist report is required only if the Town requests one, typically where the reason for removal is not clearly visible (Municipal Code 32-79.6(c)). The Town must decide within 15 working days of a complete application (32-79.7(a)), with a 10-day appeal period. Contact: (925) 314-3310 or Planning@danville.ca.gov.
Is Danville a city or a town?
Danville is officially the Town of Danville. It incorporated in 1982 as a town rather than a city, a governance choice that reflects the community's emphasis on local control and residential character. The Town designation doesn't affect tree ordinance enforcement: Municipal Code Division 32-79 carries the same legal authority as any city ordinance.
What is the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District and how does it affect tree work?
The San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District covers Danville, San Ramon, Alamo, and surrounding unincorporated areas. The district enforces defensible space requirements under California PRC 4291, requiring 100 feet of managed vegetation around structures. Properties in fire-prone areas near Mount Diablo must balance fire safety clearing with the Town's protected tree ordinance.
Tree permits in nearby cities
Contra Costa County (unincorporated) · Lafayette · Moraga · Orinda · Pleasant Hill · Walnut Creek
Compare all 56 cities in the 56-city ordinance table, or run the permit checker.
Not sure what Danville will ask for?
A 20-minute call with an ISA Certified Arborist usually settles it: permit or no permit, report or no report, and what it will cost.