Tree Removal & Heritage Trees: Daly City vs South San Francisco
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between Daly City, CA and South San Francisco, CA?
South San Francisco has fewer restrictions than Daly City.
Daly City, CA
San Mateo County
It is unlawful to cut down or remove any tree on a Daly City parkway, easement, or right-of-way without a Public Works permit under Municipal Code section 12.40.120. Removal of a live, healthy tree is at the requester's cost; trees that die of natural causes are removed and replaced by the city at no cost to the owner.
View full Daly City rules →South San Francisco, CA
San Mateo County
Private tree removal on private property in South San Francisco generally does not require a city permit. Street tree removal requires Public Works approval. Trees in special overlay zones may need additional review.
View full South San Francisco rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Daly City | South San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Permit issuer | Director of Public Works | - |
| Live healthy tree | Requester pays removal cost plus cash deposit | - |
| Natural death/damage | City removes and replaces at no cost | - |
| Unnatural causes | Owner pays removal and replacement | - |
| Code chapter | DCMC 12.40.120-12.40.140 | - |
| Private Trees | - | Generally no city permit required |
| Street Trees | - | Public Works approval required |
| Near Creeks | - | Additional review may apply |
| Contact | - | Planning Division (650) 877-8535 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Daly City FAQ
Can I remove the street tree in front of my Daly City home?
Only with a permit from the Director of Public Works. The application must state specific reasons, include a permit fee, and if a live healthy tree is approved for removal you pay the removal cost and post a cash deposit covering completion and cleanup. A tree that died of natural causes is removed and replaced by the city for free.
South San Francisco FAQ
Do I need a permit to cut down a tree in South San Francisco?
Private tree removal on private property in South San Francisco generally does not require a city permit. Street tree removal requires Public Works approval. Trees in special overlay zones may need additional review.
What are the tree removal rules in South San Francisco?
Private Trees: Generally no city permit required. Street Trees: Public Works approval required. Near Creeks: Additional review may apply. Contact: Planning Division (650) 877-8535.
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