Do I Need a Tree Permit in San Carlos?
San Carlos updated its tree ordinance in 2022 with Ordinance #1580, creating two protection tiers: heritage trees (indigenous oaks at 30 inches circumference) and significant trees (11 inches diameter). Eucalyptus are explicitly exempt. Here's the full breakdown.
Does my tree need a permit?
Select your tree type and measure the trunk to get an instant answer based on San Carlos's ordinance (Section 18.18.070 (Ordinance #1580, 2022)).
DBH = diameter measured at 4.5 feet above natural grade (standard DBH). Wrap a tape around the trunk and divide by 3.14.
What trees are protected in San Carlos?
San Carlos's 2022 ordinance (#1580) created a clear two-tier system: heritage trees (indigenous oaks at 30 inches circumference) and significant trees (all species at 11 inches DBH). Notably, eucalyptus trees are explicitly exempt from all protection — you can remove any eucalyptus without a permit. PG&E vegetation management work is also exempt from the permit process. Emergency removals can be authorized by oral permission from the Community Development Director.
| Category | Protected at | Notes | Penalty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heritage trees (indigenous oaks) | ≥30″ circumference | Coast live oak, valley oak | Full appraised value + 24″ box replacement |
| Significant trees (all species) | ≥11″ DBH | Except eucalyptus (exempt) | Full appraised value + replacement |
| Eucalyptus | Exempt | No permit needed at any size | N/A |
| Street trees | Any size | City-owned, in right-of-way | City replacement + penalties |
Not sure if your tree qualifies?
Measure first. An arborist consultation ($150–$300) is far cheaper than violation penalties. Call Community Development at (650) 802-4261 — they can often tell you on the phone whether your tree is likely protected.
How to get a tree removal permit in San Carlos
San Carlos's permit process runs through Community Development. Here's the step-by-step sequence:
Measure and identify
Measure trunk diameter at 4.5 feet above natural grade. Heritage oaks (coast live oak, valley oak) are protected at 30 inches circumference. All other species except eucalyptus are protected at 11 inches diameter.
Submit permit application
File with Community Development at (650) 802-4261. Include photos, site plan, and reason for removal. For heritage trees, an arborist report is required. Fee is $50–$150.
City review
Community Development reviews the application. Heritage oak removals receive additional scrutiny. Processing time varies based on complexity.
Receive permit and schedule work
Once approved, hire a licensed tree service (CSLB C-61/D-49). A 24-inch box replacement tree is generally required. The permit must be on-site during removal.
Receive permit and schedule work
Once approved, hire a licensed tree service contractor (CSLB C-61/D-49). 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?
Full appraised value + mandatory replacement
Unauthorized removal of a protected tree in San Carlos requires the violator to pay the full appraised value of the tree plus plant a 24-inch box replacement tree (or 15-gallon when a larger tree isn't suitable). If replanting on-site is impossible, an in-lieu fee is assessed. The 2022 ordinance strengthened enforcement mechanisms.
A permit costs $50–$150 and takes Varies. The penalties for skipping it are orders of magnitude higher. There's no scenario where unpermitted removal saves money.
San Carlos Community Development — contact and resources
Call before you apply
Community Development staff at (650) 802-4261 can often tell you whether your tree is likely protected before you spend money on an arborist report. Worth a 10-minute call.
Frequently asked questions
Does pruning require a permit in San Carlos?
Pruning that follows ISA standards and doesn't remove more than 25% of the canopy does not require a permit. Crown reduction or structural changes on heritage oaks require city approval.
What if the tree is dead or hazardous?
If a protected tree poses an immediate safety risk, you can obtain oral permission from the Community Development Director for emergency removal — without the standard permit process. Contact (650) 802-4261 immediately.
Are eucalyptus trees protected in San Carlos?
No. The 2022 Protected Tree Ordinance (#1580) explicitly excluded eucalyptus from protection. You do not need a permit to remove or prune a eucalyptus tree on your property in San Carlos, regardless of size. This was a deliberate policy decision given eucalyptus's non-native, fire-prone status.
Related reading for San Carlos tree owners
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