Tree Removal & Heritage Trees: Mountain View vs Palo Alto
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between Mountain View, CA and Palo Alto, CA?
Mountain View and Palo Alto have similar restriction levels.
Mountain View, CA
Santa Clara County
Removing a Heritage Tree in Mountain View requires a permit, a finding of justification, and replacement plantings. Unpermitted removal carries significant penalties.
View full Mountain View rules →Palo Alto, CA
Santa Clara County
Removing protected or street trees in Palo Alto requires a permit. Heritage trees and regulated oaks can only be removed with findings of hazard, disease, or undue hardship, and replacement trees are typically required.
View full Palo Alto rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Mountain View | Palo Alto |
|---|---|---|
| Permit | Required for Heritage | - |
| Replacement | 24-inch box or fee | Typically required |
| Findings | Hazard or conflict | - |
| Illegal removal fine | Up to 2,500 dollars | Up to 5,000 dollars per tree |
| Street trees | City-only removal | City-owned, permit required |
| Protected species | - | Oaks over 11.5 inches DBH |
| Heritage trees | - | Council-designated, any species |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Mountain View FAQ
Is my tree a Heritage Tree?
Heritage status depends on species and trunk size; measure circumference at 54 inches high and compare against the City species list, or ask the City Arborist.
Can I remove a dead Heritage Tree without a permit?
You still need a permit, but removal of a documented dead or hazardous tree is generally approved quickly by the City Arborist.
Palo Alto FAQ
Can I remove a dead oak without a permit?
No. Even dead protected trees require a removal permit and arborist confirmation. The permit is usually quick for clearly dead trees.
What if the tree threatens my foundation?
Submit an arborist report documenting damage with the permit application. The city may approve removal with replacement conditions.
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