Tree Protection in Davis, CA (2026)
3 verified tree protection rules for Davis, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Heritage & Protected Trees
Davis lets any person propose a tree for landmark status through city council designation, based on criteria like size, age, historical interest, or unusual form. Designated owners get a council resolution of appreciation and free city arborist consultation, but designation locks in permit protection for the tree.
Davis Landmark Tree Designation Rule
Some RestrictionsDavis Municipal Code § 37.03.020(a)
Upon recommendation of the advisory commission and approval of the city council, a tree may be designated as a landmark tree if it meets any of the following criteria: (1) The tree is an outstanding specimen of a desirable species; (2) The tree is one of the largest or oldest trees in Davis; (3) The tree is of historical interest; (4) The tree is of distinctive form; or (5) The tree is an unusu...
Protected Tree Species
Davis extends protected status beyond city-owned trees to certain private trees it calls trees of significance: any tree five inches or more in diameter on commercial, multifamily, or residential-care property, or in HOA common areas. Cutting, pruning substantially, or removing one without a permit is a prohibited act.
Davis Trees of Significance Protection
Some RestrictionsDavis Municipal Code § 37.01.020
Tree of significance means any tree, which measures five inches or more in diameter (DBH) located on property that is used for commercial, multi-family housing or residential care facilities, or in publicly accessible common space controlled by a Homeowner's Association.
Parkway Planting
Davis requires anyone subdividing land to plant a street tree in the city tree easement for every lot fronting a public street, following the city's tree planting requirements, and to deposit a per-tree fee that funds five years of city-provided pruning and training.
Davis Subdivider Street Tree Planting Rule
Some RestrictionsDavis Municipal Code § 37.02.030
Subdividers are hereby required to provide and plant trees within the city tree easement, according to the city tree planting requirements, for each lot fronting a public street. Furthermore, the subdivider is required to deposit a city tree fee, as established by resolution of the city council, for use by the city during the initial five-year establishment period.
Looking for Yolo County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Davis city rules.
Tree Protection in Yolo County →