Tree Protection in San Francisco, CA (2026)
5 verified tree protection rules for San Francisco, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Tree Removal Permits
San Francisco's Urban Forestry Ordinance (Public Works Code Article 16) requires permits for the removal of street trees and significant trees on private property. The Bureau of Urban Forestry (BUF) within DPW reviews all tree removal requests.
San Francisco Tree Removal Permit Rules
Heavy RestrictionsHeritage & Protected Trees
San Francisco protects Significant Trees and Landmark Trees on private property under Public Works Code Article 16. Significant Trees are 20+ inch DBH within 10 feet of public right-of-way. Landmark Trees are nominated through public hearing. Removal requires Public Works permit, public posting, and 30-day appeal window.
SF Significant Tree & Landmark Tree Designation
Heavy RestrictionsTree Replacement Requirements
When tree removal is approved in San Francisco, replacement planting is typically required under the Urban Forestry Ordinance. Development projects must plant new street trees at a ratio specified by the Bureau of Urban Forestry, generally one or more replacement trees per tree removed.
San Francisco Tree Replacement Requirements
Heavy RestrictionsTree Ordinances
San Francisco has some of California's strictest tree protections under Public Works Code Article 16 (Section 806 et seq.). Removal or significant pruning of Street Trees, Significant Trees, and Landmark Trees requires a permit from the Bureau of Urban Forestry, with fines up to $2,487 per violation plus restitution.
Tree Protection Ordinances in San Francisco
Heavy RestrictionsUrban Forest Equity
San Francisco has the lowest tree canopy of any major California city at roughly 14 percent. The 2014 Urban Forest Plan and 2017 StreetTreeSF program invest public funds to grow canopy, prioritizing low-canopy neighborhoods like Bayview, Visitacion Valley, and the Excelsior.