Tree Removal Permits: Oakland vs San Leandro
How do tree removal permits rules compare between Oakland, CA and San Leandro, CA?
San Leandro has fewer restrictions than Oakland.
Oakland, CA
Alameda County
Oakland has a Protected Tree Ordinance (OMC Chapter 12.36) requiring permits for removal of coast live oaks over 4 inches DBH and other protected species. All trees over 9 inches DBH on development sites also require removal permits.
View full Oakland rules →San Leandro, CA
Alameda County
No permit is required to remove a tree on private property in San Leandro. Only street trees (those in the public right-of-way) require a City permit under SLMC Title 5 Chapter 5-2 and Administrative Code Chapter 12.
View full San Leandro rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Oakland | San Leandro |
|---|---|---|
| Governing Code | OMC Chapter 12.36 | - |
| Coast Live Oak | Protected at 4 inches DBH | - |
| Other Trees | Protected at 9 inches DBH on development sites | - |
| Arborist Report | Required for removal permits | - |
| Penalty | Up to $1,000 per tree plus replacement | - |
| Code Section | - | SLMC Title 5 Chapter 5-2; Admin. Code Ch. 12 |
| Private Trees | - | No permit required |
| Street Trees | - | Permit required (Public Works) |
| Replacement Required | - | Typically yes for approved street-tree removal |
| Permit Fee | - | Free (replacement costs apply) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Oakland FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Oakland?
Coast live oaks over 4 inches DBH always require a permit. All trees over 9 inches DBH on development sites also need permits. Apply through the Bureau of Planning.
What about emergency tree removal?
Hazardous trees may be removed in emergencies but must be reported to the city afterward with documentation of the hazard.
San Leandro FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in my San Leandro backyard?
No. San Leandro does not require a City permit to remove a tree on private property. Check your HOA CC&Rs and consult an arborist about neighbor or nuisance impacts.
How do I remove a street tree in front of my San Leandro house?
Submit a Tree Removal Permit application to the Public Works Department documenting why the tree is dead, diseased, dangerous, or damaging infrastructure. If approved, you will likely be required to fund a replacement tree.
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