Tree Removal & Heritage Trees: Monterey vs Salinas
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between Monterey, CA and Salinas, CA?
Salinas has fewer restrictions than Monterey.
Monterey, CA
Monterey County
Monterey County Code Chapter 16.60 (Preservation of Oak and Other Protected Trees) requires a Tree Removal Permit to remove most native trees - including coast live oak, valley oak, blue oak, Monterey cypress, Monterey pine, and redwood - on private property in the unincorporated county. MCC 16.60.040 sets standards for removal of 3 or fewer protected trees; removal of more requires a Use Permit. Coastal Zone removals also require a Coastal Development Permit.
View full Monterey rules →Salinas, CA
Monterey County
Salinas regulates tree removal on private property through permits and size thresholds. Street trees are city-managed and cannot be removed by residents.
View full Salinas rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Monterey | Salinas |
|---|---|---|
| Code Chapter | MCC Ch. 16.60 | - |
| Permit Section | MCC 16.60.040 | - |
| Protected Species | Oaks, Monterey cypress, Monterey pine, redwood | - |
| Ag. Canopy Rule | Min. 25% canopy retention (MCC 16.60.050) | - |
| Coastal Zone | CDP also required under Title 20 | - |
| Permit Threshold | - | 6 to 12 inch trunk diameter |
| Street Trees | - | City-managed only |
| Replacement | - | Required for removed trees |
| Hazardous Trees | - | Expedited process |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Monterey FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Monterey County?
Yes, for protected species - oaks, Monterey cypress, Monterey pine, redwood, and others - under MCC 16.60.040. Removal of 4+ trees needs a Use Permit. Coastal Zone properties also need a Coastal Development Permit.
Can I remove a dead or hazardous tree without a permit?
Dead, dying, hazardous, or diseased trees may qualify for a ministerial (over-the-counter) Tree Removal Permit after arborist evaluation. Defensible space thinning under CAL FIRE rules is generally exempt.
What's the penalty for unpermitted removal?
Misdemeanor or infraction with replacement planting (typically 1:1 to 5:1 by canopy), daily fines, and Coastal Commission penalties of up to $15,000 per tree in egregious cases under Cal. PRC 30820.
Salinas FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree?
If the trunk exceeds the size threshold (typically 6 to 12 inches), yes. Check Salinas tree ordinance for details.
Who handles street trees?
Salinas public works or urban forestry manages all trees in the public right-of-way.
Compare other topics
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