Tree Protection in Sunnyvale, CA (2026)
2 verified tree protection rules for Sunnyvale, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Heritage & Protected Trees
A tree the Sunnyvale city council designates a heritage landmark under Chapter 19.96 needs two permits before it can come down: a protected tree removal permit and a landmark alteration permit, and the heritage preservation commission must approve any material change to it at a public hearing (Muni Code Sec. 19.94.050(a), 19.96.090).
Heritage Tree Designation Rules in Sunnyvale
Significant RestrictionsSunnyvale, CA, Municipal Code Sec. 19.94.050(a) (Permits required); Sec. 19.96.040 (Definitions), Sec. 19.96.050 (Criteria for evaluation and nomination of heritage resources), Chapter 19.96 Heritage Preservation
"Heritage resource" means improvements, buildings, portions of buildings, structures, signs, features, sites, scenic areas, views and vistas, places, areas, landscapes, trees, or other natural objects or objects of scientific, aesthetic, educational, political, social, cultural, architectural, or historical significance to the citizens of the city... which are designated and determined to be ap...
Parkway Planting
Sunnyvale requires a minimum of one city tree per lot in new development and bars anyone from planting in the public right-of-way, including the parkway strip, without a permit from the superintendent of trees and landscaping. Only species on the official tree list may go in without special written approval from the city.
Street Tree Planting Rules in Sunnyvale
Some RestrictionsSunnyvale, CA, Municipal Code §§ 13.16.020, 13.16.040(b), 13.16.060(a), Chapter 13.16 Trees
Whenever new development occurs, a minimum of one tree per lot shall be installed. In existing developments, if it is determined to be feasible, city trees shall be installed. The number of trees and types of trees to be installed, their location and the method of installation shall be in accordance with standards approved by the city council. ... No tree shall be planted in the public right-of...
Looking for Santa Clara County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Sunnyvale city rules.
Tree Protection in Santa Clara County →