Tree Removal & Heritage Trees: Rialto vs Victorville
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between Rialto, CA and Victorville, CA?
Rialto and Victorville have similar restriction levels.
Rialto, CA
San Bernardino County
San Bernardino County requires CDFW permits for Joshua tree removal and county permits for trees in the public right-of-way. Private property removal is generally permitted without a permit.
View full Rialto rules →Victorville, CA
San Bernardino County
Private yard trees in Victorville can usually be removed without a city permit, but Joshua trees require a CDFW permit under AB 122. Street trees are city-regulated and protected species need state authorization first.
View full Victorville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Rialto | Victorville |
|---|---|---|
| Joshua Trees | CDFW permit required | - |
| Public ROW | Permit required | - |
| Native Desert Plants | Permit under DNPA | - |
| Private Property | Generally no permit | - |
| JT Conservation Act | 2023 AB 122 | - |
| Joshua tree | - | CDFW permit mandatory |
| Mitigation fee | - | Per tree, sized by height |
| Private yard trees | - | Usually no city permit |
| Street trees | - | City permit required |
| Contractor | - | California C-61/D-49 license |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Rialto FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree on my property?
Generally no for standard trees on private residential property. However, Joshua trees require a permit from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, trees in the public right-of-way require a county permit, and certain native desert plants are protected.
What if I have a Joshua tree on my property?
Under the 2023 Western Joshua Tree Conservation Act, both western and eastern Joshua trees are protected. You must apply to CDFW for a permit before removing, relocating, or trimming beyond normal maintenance. Unpermitted removal can cost up to 4,500 dollars per tree.
Victorville FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a Joshua tree in Victorville?
Yes. The California Western Joshua Tree Conservation Act requires a CDFW take permit plus a mitigation fee for any live Joshua tree removal, even on your private residential lot in the Victor Valley.
What about a dead Joshua tree on my property?
Dead Joshua trees are generally not protected, but you should document the dead status with photos and confirm with CDFW before removal because the burden of proof is on the property owner.
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