Do I Need a Tree Permit in Lafayette?
Lafayette adopted an updated Tree Protection Ordinance (Chapter 6-17) on January 9, 2025, with clearer thresholds, lower replacement ratios, stronger defensible space provisions, and new penalties for violations. Indigenous species on developed property are protected at 12 inches trunk diameter.
The Short Answer: Yes, Permits Are Required
Lafayette's updated 2025 Tree Protection Ordinance protects indigenous species (oak, bay, buckeye, madrone) at 12 inches trunk diameter on developed property, and native species at 6 inches on undeveloped property. Riparian species are protected at 6 inches (4 inches for multi-trunk component). The 2025 update introduced new penalties based on tree diameter and lowered replacement tree ratios.
Lafayette is served by two fire districts — MOFD (south/central) and ConFire (north/Reliez Valley) — and the 2025 ordinance strengthened fire safety and defensible space provisions.
Dual Fire District: MOFD & ConFire
Lafayette is split between the Moraga-Orinda Fire District (MOFD) and Contra Costa County Fire Protection District (ConFire). Both enforce defensible space. The 2025 ordinance update explicitly strengthened fire safety provisions, allowing expedited permits for defensible space work. Know which district covers your property before planning tree work.
What Trees Are Protected in Lafayette?
Lafayette's tree protection covers:
- Indigenous on developed property — Oak, bay, buckeye, madrone at 12"+ trunk diameter
- Native on undeveloped property — Native species at 6"+, other species at 12"+
- Riparian trees — Native riparian species (maple, alder, walnut, willow, oak, bay, elderberry) at 6"+ (4"+ multi-trunk)
- Dead/dying trees — Permit required but no fee or replacement if documented by arborist
Contra Costa County Comparison: Lafayette vs. Neighbors
| Requirement | Lafayette | Walnut Creek | Orinda |
|---|---|---|---|
| Protected size | 12" (indigenous, developed) | 9" (all species) | 12" (oak on developed) |
| Undeveloped land | 6" (native), 12" (other) | Same as developed | Varies by designation |
| Riparian | 6" (4" multi-trunk) | No specific riparian | 4" (native riparian) |
| Penalty | Fines per diameter (2025) | Misdemeanor + appraised value | Up to $5,000/tree |
| Updated | January 2025 | May 2024 | 2025 (Ord. 25-03) |
The Permit Process: Step by Step
Determine if a permit is required
Check your tree's species and trunk diameter against the 2025 thresholds. Indigenous species on developed property: 12"+. Native species on undeveloped: 6"+. Riparian species: 6"+ (4"+ multi-trunk). Contact Planning & Building at (925) 284-1976.
Get an arborist assessment
For protected trees, a written report from an ISA Certified Arborist is required documenting species, size, health, and removal justification. Dead/dying trees need arborist confirmation but are exempt from fees and replacement.
Submit the tree permit application
File the application with the Lafayette Planning & Building Department. Include the arborist report, site photos, and proposed replacement plan. Applications are available at lovelafayette.org.
City review and site evaluation
Planning staff reviews the application and may conduct a site visit. The 2025 ordinance provides expedited processing for imminent hazard and defensible space situations.
Receive approval and conditions
Approved permits include conditions for replacement planting (lower ratios under the 2025 ordinance). Defensible space removals may have simplifyd conditions.
Plant replacement trees
Plant approved replacement species within the specified timeframe. The 2025 ordinance reduced replacement ratios from previous levels. The city may inspect for compliance.
What Does Tree Work Cost in Lafayette?
Lafayette's tree protection requirements and local terrain affect removal costs:
- Small tree removal (under 25 ft): $800–$2,000
- Medium tree removal (25–50 ft): $2,000–$5,000
- Large oak removal (hillside, 50+ ft): $5,000–$14,000
- Protected tree with permit: $7,000–$13,000+
- Stump grinding: $200–$500 per stump
Contact Information
Frequently Asked Questions
What changed in Lafayette's 2025 tree ordinance?
The City Council adopted the updated ordinance on December 9, 2024, effective January 9, 2025. Changes include clearer thresholds, lower replacement tree ratios, stronger defensible space provisions, new penalties based on tree diameter, and expedited permits for imminent hazards.
What trees are protected in Lafayette?
Indigenous species (oak, bay, buckeye, madrone) on developed property at 12" diameter. Native species on undeveloped property at 6". Riparian species at 6" (4" for multi-trunk). The 2025 ordinance clarified these thresholds.
Do dead trees need a permit to remove?
Yes, a permit is required, but dead/dying trees are exempt from fees and replacement requirements if documented by an ISA Certified Arborist. The arborist must confirm the tree is dead, not dormant.
What's the penalty for illegal tree removal in Lafayette?
The 2025 ordinance introduced diameter-based fines, replacing the previous practice of dramatically increasing replacement ratios. Contact Planning & Building at (925) 284-1976 for current penalty schedules.
Which fire district covers my Lafayette property?
Lafayette is split between MOFD (south/central) and ConFire (north/Reliez Valley). Your fire district determines which agency conducts defensible space inspections. Check your address with both agencies.
Related reading for Lafayette residents
Need a tree assessment or removal permit help?
An ISA Certified Arborist report strengthens your Lafayette permit application and ensures compliant removal with proper replacement planning.