Tree Removal & Heritage Trees: El Cerrito vs San Ramon
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between El Cerrito, CA and San Ramon, CA?
El Cerrito and San Ramon have similar restriction levels.
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 →San Ramon, CA
Contra Costa County
San Ramon's Tree Preservation Ordinance (Municipal Code Chapter D2-50) requires a permit to remove protected trees including native oaks, California bay, buckeye, and sycamore above specified trunk diameters. Removal of heritage trees and significant trees on private property without approval carries fines up to $1,000+ per tree and replanting requirements.
View full San Ramon rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | El Cerrito | San Ramon |
|---|---|---|
| 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.
San Ramon FAQ
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