Tree Removal Permits: San Jose vs Santa Clara
How do tree removal permits rules compare between San Jose, CA and Santa Clara, CA?
San Jose, CA
Santa Clara County
San Jose has one of California's most comprehensive tree protection ordinances under SJMC Chapter 13.32. A Tree Removal Permit is required to remove any ordinance-size tree (circumference of 56 inches or more measured at 4.5 feet above ground, or 38 inches for native species). Permits are issued by the City Arborist and require documented justification such as disease, hazard, or development necessity. Replacement planting is required for all approved removals.
View full San Jose rules →Santa Clara, CA
Santa Clara County
No data available yet for Santa Clara.
Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | San Jose | Santa Clara |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | SJMC Chapter 13.32 | - |
| Ordinance Size | 56 inches circumference (38 inches for native species) | - |
| Measurement | At 4.5 feet above ground level | - |
| Review | City Arborist inspection required | - |
| Penalties | Up to 3x appraised tree value plus replacement | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
San Jose FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree on my property in San Jose?
If the tree has a circumference of 56 inches or more (38 inches for native species) measured at 4.5 feet above ground, you need a Tree Removal Permit from the City Arborist.
What happens if I remove a tree without a permit?
Unauthorized removal can result in fines up to three times the appraised value of the tree, which can be tens of thousands of dollars for large trees, plus mandatory replacement planting.
Santa Clara FAQ
No FAQs available.
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