Tree Removal Permits: Carmichael vs Sacramento
How do tree removal permits rules compare between Carmichael, CA and Sacramento, CA?
Carmichael has fewer restrictions than Sacramento.
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 →Sacramento, CA
Sacramento County
Sacramento requires permits for the removal of protected trees under City Code Chapter 12.56 (Tree Planting, Maintenance, and Conservation). A tree permit is required to remove, prune more than 25% of the canopy, or perform any work within the dripline of a city street tree or private protected tree (formerly Heritage Trees). Private protected trees are generally those with a trunk diameter of 12 inches or more (measured at 4.5 feet above grade) and certain native species of any size.
View full Sacramento rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Carmichael | Sacramento |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Fee | $31.95 | - |
| Code Chapter | SCC Ch. 19.12 | - |
| Coordinator Phone | 916-874-6141 | - |
| Processing Time | 5-30 business days | - |
| Code Section | - | Sacramento City Code Chapter 12.56 |
| Protected Threshold | - | 100-inch circumference (approx. 32-inch diameter) at 4.5 ft |
| Native Species | - | Oaks, sycamores, buckeyes protected at any size |
| Replacement Ratio | - | 1:1 standard, up to 3:1 for Heritage Trees |
| Penalty Range | - | $500-$25,000 per tree for unpermitted removal |
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.
Sacramento FAQ
Do I need a permit to cut down a tree in Sacramento?
You need a permit to remove any city street tree or private protected tree (generally 32+ inches in diameter, or native oaks, sycamores, and buckeyes of any size). Apply through the City Arborist.
What if a tree is hazardous and needs emergency removal?
You may remove an imminently hazardous tree without prior approval, but you must report the removal to the City Arborist within 5 business days and provide documentation of the hazard.
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