Tree Removal Permits: Lodi vs Stockton
How do tree removal permits rules compare between Lodi, CA and Stockton, CA?
Lodi has fewer restrictions than Stockton.
Lodi, CA
San Joaquin County
Lodi only regulates removal of City trees (any tree 50% or more within the public right-of-way). An encroachment permit from Public Works is required to remove a parkway/street tree; trees entirely on private property are not regulated for removal.
View full Lodi rules →Stockton, CA
San Joaquin County
Stockton requires a permit from the Community Development Director to plant, remove, replace, or relocate any tree located in a street right-of-way, public utility easement adjacent to a street, park, or other public place. Permits expire 60 days after issuance.
View full Stockton rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Lodi | Stockton |
|---|---|---|
| Permit required (public ROW tree) | Yes — encroachment permit from Public Works | - |
| Permit required (fully private tree) | No | - |
| Encroachment permit fee | $125 (sidewalk/driveway category) | - |
| Definition of 'City tree' | 50%+ of trunk within public right-of-way at ground surface | - |
| Issuing department | Public Works, 221 W Pine St, Lodi | - |
| Phone | (209) 333-6706 | - |
| Street tree permit required | - | Yes (SMC 12.64 / 16.162) |
| Permit expiration | - | 60 days after issuance |
| Maintenance/pruning permit needed | - | No |
| Emergency removal | - | City may remove without permit; no replacement required |
| Issuing authority | - | Community Development Director |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Lodi FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in my backyard?
No. Lodi does not regulate removal of trees entirely on private property. Only trees with 50% or more of the trunk within the public right-of-way (parkway/street trees) require an encroachment permit from Public Works.
How do I tell if my tree is a 'City tree'?
Measure the trunk at ground level. If 50% or more of the trunk sits within the public right-of-way (typically the parkway strip between curb and sidewalk, or beyond the sidewalk on the street side of your property line), it is a City tree under the 2016 Tree Policy.
What if my parkway tree's roots are lifting my sidewalk?
The City will remove the tree at its expense if it causes repeated extensive damage to curb, gutter, or sidewalk, or if root surgery cannot fix the conflict. Contact Public Works Streets Division at (209) 333-6700.
Stockton FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree on my private property in Stockton?
Not under Chapter 12.64 (which covers only the street right-of-way and public places), but if the tree is a heritage oak — Valley Oak, Coast Live Oak, or Interior Live Oak — a Heritage Tree Permit under SMC 16.130 is required regardless of whether the tree is on public or private property.
Can I prune the parkway tree in front of my house without a permit?
Yes. Stockton allows property owners to maintain street trees adjacent to their property without a permit, including structural pruning, deep root watering, fertilizing, and removal of dead branches or mistletoe. Removal still requires a permit.
What if a street tree falls or is dangerous?
Call the Stockton Municipal Service Center / Tree Division at (209) 937-8341 or use Ask Stockton. The Director or Public Works Director may authorize emergency removal by the City without a permit.
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