Tree Replacement Requirements: Lodi vs Stockton

Will the City pay to plant a new tree if I remove one in the parkway?

Yes. The 2016 Tree Policy explicitly states parkway trees will be replaced at the City's expense as part of the tree planting program, even when the original tree was removed at owner expense (for driveway widening, nuisance fruit, etc.).

Do I have to water the new parkway tree?

Yes. Per the Tree Policy §I, 'Property owners are responsible for any required watering of newly planted trees in parkways.' The City handles all other maintenance including trimming, spraying, and root surgery.

Can I pick the replacement species?

You can request a species, but it must come from Lodi's approved street tree list or receive written approval from the Streets Division Supervisor. Selections under power lines are limited to 20-40 ft max height.

Can I pay an in-lieu fee instead of planting replacement trees?

SMC 16.130 does not establish an automatic in-lieu fee schedule. The Director may direct that replacement trees be planted in a City park or other public location if on-site planting isn't feasible, but the 3:1 obligation is a planting obligation, not a cash buyout.

How big does the replacement tree need to be?

At minimum 15-gallon container stock. The Director may require larger stock (24-inch or 36-inch box) when the heritage tree being removed is mature and large, to better approximate the canopy loss.

Do I need to replace a dead heritage oak?

Generally yes — even for dead or hazardous heritage oaks removed under permit, the 3:1 replacement obligation applies unless waived by the Director. Emergency removals (immediate threat) are the main exception.