Tree Removal Permits: Daly City vs South San Francisco

Do I need a permit to remove a tree in my backyard?

Daly City does not have a citywide heritage-tree ordinance that requires permits for healthy trees on private residential property. However, if your property is subject to a planning approval (subdivision, design review, or recent building permit) that lists trees as protected, you must comply with those conditions. Trees in the public right-of-way (sidewalk strip) always require Public Works authorization.

Who do I call to remove a street tree in front of my house?

Contact the Daly City Department of Public Works at City Hall (333 90th Street, 650-991-8000). Street trees in the parkway are city-managed under Title 11, and any pruning, topping, or removal requires city authorization first.

Is there a fee for tree removal authorization?

The City charges fees for encroachment and right-of-way work under its adopted fee schedule. Contact Public Works for current fee amounts for street tree work.

When can I remove a tree without a permit in the unincorporated County?

Key exemptions include dead trees, true emergencies determined by Planning and Building, CAL FIRE-identified defensible-space work, and specific fire-risk species (eucalyptus, pine, acacia, tanoak, bay) near structures - unless that tree is 38 inches DSH or larger.

Does the hazardous-tree exemption apply everywhere?

The extended hazardous-tree removal exemption (through July 1, 2026) applies in the Coastal Zone of the unincorporated County and only to eucalyptus, pines, acacia, tanoak, and bay. Redwoods, Douglas firs, true oaks, maples, and buckeyes still need a permit.