Tree Protection in Santa Cruz, CA (2026)
3 verified tree protection rules for Santa Cruz, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Tree Removal Permits
Santa Cruz Municipal Code §9.56.060 requires a permit before removing or significantly working on any Heritage Tree or Heritage Shrub. Permits are issued by the Parks & Recreation Director.
Santa Cruz Heritage Tree Removal Permit
Heavy RestrictionsHeritage & Protected Trees
Santa Cruz Municipal Code §9.56.040 establishes the Heritage Tree and Heritage Shrub designation process. Designation criteria include species, size, age, historic association, cultural value, and visual significance.
Santa Cruz Heritage Tree Designation
Heavy RestrictionsTree Replacement Requirements
Santa Cruz Municipal Code §9.56.100 requires mitigation for approved and unapproved removals of heritage trees or heritage shrubs. Replacement is typically based on appraised value or species-and-size formulas.
Santa Cruz Tree Replacement Mitigation
Heavy RestrictionsLooking for Santa Cruz County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Santa Cruz city rules.
Tree Protection in Santa Cruz County →