Tree Removal Permits: Carmichael vs Galt
How do tree removal permits rules compare between Carmichael, CA and Galt, CA?
Carmichael has fewer restrictions than Galt.
Carmichael, CA
Sacramento County
Sacramento County tree removal permits cost $31.95 (FY 2025-26) and are administered by the Sacramento County Tree Coordinator (916-874-6141) under SCC Ch. 19.12. Applications must include a tree survey and reason for removal.
View full Carmichael rules →Galt, CA
Sacramento County
Sacramento County's Tree Preservation and Protection Ordinance (County Code Chapter 19.12) requires a tree permit to remove or significantly impact protected trees, native oaks, landmark trees, and public trees, in the unincorporated urban area. Permits are issued by Planning and Environmental Review; the fee is about $31.95 and processing is typically under 10 working days.
View full Galt rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Carmichael | Galt |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Fee | $31.95 | - |
| Code Chapter | SCC Ch. 19.12 | - |
| Coordinator Phone | 916-874-6141 | - |
| Processing Time | 5-30 business days | - |
| Governing ordinance | - | County Code Ch. 19.12 (Tree Preservation and Protection) |
| Protected trees | - | Native oaks (public and private), landmark trees, public trees |
| Permit fee | - | About $31.95 (as of July 1, 2025) |
| Processing time | - | Typically under 10 working days |
| Arborist required | - | ISA Certified Arborist/Tree Worker for branches/roots over 2 inches |
| Penalty | - | Misdemeanor/nuisance; in-kind replacement or Tree Preservation Fund payment |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Carmichael FAQ
How much does a Sacramento County tree permit cost?
$31.95 as of July 1, 2025 (FY 2025-26 fee schedule). Apply through the Sacramento County Tree Coordinator at planning.saccounty.net.
Galt FAQ
How do I get a tree removal permit in Sacramento County?
Apply through the County Department of Planning and Environmental Review. Submit a property sketch with tree locations, photos, the trunk diameter measured 4.5 feet above ground, the reason for removal, and owner consent. The fee is about $31.95 and processing usually takes under ten working days. Permits for protected trees are typically granted only for dead, hazardous, or severely damaged trees.
Which trees need a permit before removal?
Native oak trees (on public or private property), landmark trees, and public trees in the designated urban area of unincorporated Sacramento County are protected under Chapter 19.12 and require a tree permit before removal. Removing one without a permit is a misdemeanor and public nuisance and can require replacement trees or a payment into the Tree Preservation Fund.
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