How Redding Handles Tree Protection: A Practical Guide

Redding maintains 137 local ordinances across all categories, and 3 of those deal specifically with tree protection. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Redding falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Protected Tree Species

Redding does not single out particular tree species for protection. Under Section 18.45.030, any tree over six inches in trunk diameter, regardless of species, needs a city tree removal permit before it can be cut down, and individual trees only get extra protection by being named to the Landmark and Heritage Tree Plan.

Key details: Permit threshold: Any tree over 6 inches dbh, all species. Species-specific list: None; protection is size or designation based. Heritage protection: Landmark and Heritage Tree Plan, Chapter 13.40. Removal fine: Up to $2,000 per tree. Governing section: RMC 18.45.030.

Unlawful tree removal carries a dedicated penalty under Section 18.45.100: a fine of up to two thousand dollars per tree for unauthorized removal or damage, a requirement to plant and maintain replacement trees in healthy condition for three years, and a bar on further development at the property, aside from corrective work, for up to two years. A violator can seek relief by filing a late removal permit and paying twice the normal application fee.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Redding actively enforces its protected tree species requirements.

Parkway Planting

Redding requires a written permit before anyone plants, removes, or alters a tree in a street planting strip or public area. The parks foreman administers a council-approved comprehensive tree plan governing which species go where, and violations are a misdemeanor.

Key details: Permit required: Before planting, removing, or altering any parkway tree. Enforcing official: City parks foreman. Removal cap for owner convenience: $400 replacement cost. Removal notice period: 10 days' written notice to owner. Appeal window: 7 days to community services advisory commission.

Violating Chapter 13.40, including unpermitted planting, removal, or damage to a street tree, is a misdemeanor under Section 13.40.130, punishable by a fine of up to $300, up to 30 days in jail, or both, with each day of continued violation a separate offense. A property owner who lets a hazardous private tree remain a nuisance faces city-ordered removal at Section 13.40.080, with costs assessed as a lien-style abatement charge against the property. Decisions of the parks foreman can be appealed in writing to the community services advisory commission within seven days, with a further appeal to the city council, per Section 13.40.100.

Compared to other cities, Redding takes a harder line on parkway planting. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

Heritage & Protected Trees

Redding protects its oldest and most distinctive trees through a council-approved Landmark and Heritage Tree Plan defined at Redding Municipal Code § 13.40.010(H), and no one may plant, maintain, remove or damage a tree in a city planting strip or public area without a written permit.

Key details: Plan approval: Requires city council approval, § 13.40.020D. Permit required for: Planting, maintaining, removing or damaging a covered tree. Appeal path: Community services advisory commission, then city council (final). Penalty: Up to $300 fine and/or 30 days jail, § 13.40.130. Tree trimmer requirement: Pass parks foreman exam, carry liability insurance.

Any act this chapter declares unlawful, including maintaining, removing, replacing or damaging a tree in a planting strip or public area without the required written permit, is a misdemeanor under § 13.40.130, punishable by a fine of up to $300, up to 30 days in jail, or both, and every day the violation continues counts as a separate offense.

The Bottom Line

Redding is tougher than many cities when it comes to tree protection. Out of the 3 rules covered here, 2 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Redding, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

This guide is based on Redding's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.