Do I Need a Tree Permit in San Mateo?
San Mateo uses a dual threshold — oaks are protected at 10 inches diameter while all other species start at 15 inches. Here's how the permit process works, what it costs, and what happens if you skip it.
Does my tree need a permit?
Select your tree type and measure the trunk to get an instant answer based on San Mateo's ordinance (Protected Trees Ordinance).
DBH = diameter measured at 54 inches above natural grade. Wrap a tape around the trunk and divide by 3.14.
What trees are protected in San Mateo?
San Mateo's dual-threshold system gives oaks extra protection at 10 inches diameter (versus 15 inches for all other species), measured at 54 inches above natural grade. Violations require paying the tree's full appraised value plus mandatory replanting — which on mature oaks can mean five-figure penalties. Street trees in the public right-of-way are always protected regardless of species or size.
| Category | Protected at | Notes | Penalty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oaks (all species) | ≥10″ DBH | At 54″ above natural grade — lower threshold | Appraised value + replanting |
| All other species | ≥15″ DBH | At 54″ above natural grade | Appraised value + replanting |
| Street trees | Any size | City-owned, in public 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) 522-7210 — they can often tell you on the phone whether your tree is likely protected.
How to get a tree removal permit in San Mateo
San Mateo's permit process runs through Community Development. Here's the step-by-step sequence:
Measure and identify species
Measure trunk diameter at 54 inches above natural grade. If it's an oak and ≥10 inches, or any other species ≥15 inches, the tree is protected.
Get an arborist report
An ISA Certified Arborist report is required for heritage tree removals. Budget $300–$600. The report must document condition, reason for removal, and alternatives.
Submit to Community Development
File the permit application with Community Development at (650) 522-7210. Pay the permit fee (approximately $150). Include arborist report, site plan, and photos.
City review
Community Development reviews the application. Standard processing takes 4–6 weeks. Heritage tree removals may require additional review.
Receive permit and schedule work
Once approved, hire a licensed tree service (CSLB C-61/D-49). Replacement planting is required per permit conditions. The permit must be on-site during removal.
What happens if you remove a tree without a permit?
Full appraised value + mandatory replanting
Removing a protected tree without a permit in San Mateo requires paying the full appraised value of the tree plus mandatory replacement planting. For mature heritage oaks, appraised values can reach $10,000–$50,000+. Combined with replanting costs, total violation exposure easily exceeds $15,000. The city actively enforces violations.
A permit costs approximately $150 and takes 4–6 wks. The penalties for skipping it are orders of magnitude higher. There's no scenario where unpermitted removal saves money.
San Mateo Community Development — contact and resources
Call before you apply
Community Development staff at (650) 522-7210 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 Mateo?
Pruning following ISA standards that removes less than 25% of the canopy does not typically require a permit. Significant structural pruning on protected trees requires city approval.
What if the tree is dead or hazardous?
Dead or imminently hazardous trees may qualify for expedited removal. Contact Community Development at (650) 522-7210 before proceeding. Document the hazard with photos and, if possible, an arborist assessment.
Why do oaks have a lower threshold than other species?
San Mateo recognizes oaks as the most ecologically and culturally significant trees on the Peninsula. The lower 10-inch threshold (versus 15 inches for other species) ensures oaks receive protection earlier in their growth cycle. A coast live oak may take 15–20 years to reach 10 inches diameter, meaning relatively young established oaks are already protected.
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