Tree Removal & Heritage Trees: El Cerrito vs Martinez
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between El Cerrito, CA and Martinez, CA?
Martinez has fewer restrictions than El Cerrito.
El Cerrito, CA
Contra Costa County
Contra Costa County protects heritage and native trees under County Ordinance Code Chapter 816-6. A permit is required to remove any protected tree (most native oaks, bays, buckeyes, madrones, and sycamores) of 6.5 inches DBH or larger on private property. Unpermitted removal carries penalties up to $10,000 per tree plus replacement planting.
View full El Cerrito rules →Martinez, CA
Contra Costa County
Martinez protects heritage and native trees under its zoning code. Removal of protected trees — including mature oaks, redwoods, and trees above a diameter threshold — typically requires a tree removal permit from the Planning Division with mitigation planting. Unpermitted removal carries substantial fines.
View full Martinez rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | El Cerrito | Martinez |
|---|---|---|
| Protected DBH | 6.5 in (20 in circumference) or larger | - |
| Covered species | Oaks, bay, buckeye, madrone, sycamore, big-leaf maple | - |
| Permit authority | Contra Costa DCD Planning | - |
| Penalty | Up to $10,000 per tree + replacement | - |
| Exemptions | Dead/hazard, fruit trees, <25% canopy trim | - |
| - | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
El Cerrito FAQ
Can I remove an oak tree that is dropping limbs onto my house?
You may remove it if a certified arborist documents imminent hazard. File an emergency notice with DCD within 48 hours and retain the arborist report and photos.
Does the ordinance apply to cutting roots for a new driveway?
Yes. Any construction within the dripline of a protected tree requires review, and cutting more than 25% of the root zone can trigger a removal-level permit.
Martinez FAQ
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