Tree Removal & Heritage Trees: El Cerrito vs Walnut Creek
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between El Cerrito, CA and Walnut Creek, CA?
El Cerrito and Walnut Creek 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 →Walnut Creek, CA
Contra Costa County
Walnut Creek has one of the Bay Area's strongest tree preservation ordinances. Removal of any Protected Tree — including Heritage Trees, native oaks, and trees of significant size on private property — requires a Tree Removal Permit from the Planning Division. Unauthorized removal can result in fines up to $10,000 per tree plus replacement requirements.
View full Walnut Creek rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | El Cerrito | Walnut Creek |
|---|---|---|
| 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.
Walnut Creek FAQ
Compare other topics
See how El Cerrito and Walnut Creek compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool