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🌿 Landscaping Rules/Tree Removal & Heritage Trees

Tree Removal & Heritage Trees: San Mateo vs South San Francisco

How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between San Mateo, CA and South San Francisco, CA?

San Mateo and South San Francisco have similar restriction levels.

San Mateo, CA

San Mateo County

Some Restrictions

Private tree removal in San Mateo generally does not require a city permit. Street tree removal requires Parks Division approval. Heritage or protected trees may require additional review.

View full San Mateo rules β†’

South San Francisco, CA

San Mateo County

Some Restrictions

Private tree removal on private property in South San Francisco generally does not require a city permit. Street tree removal requires Public Works approval. Trees in special overlay zones may need additional review.

View full South San Francisco rules β†’

Key Facts Comparison

FactSan MateoSouth San Francisco
Private TreesGenerally no permit requiredGenerally no city permit required
Street TreesParks Division approval requiredPublic Works approval required
Special ZonesAdditional review possible near creeks-
ContactPublic Works (650) 522-7300Planning Division (650) 877-8535
Near Creeks-Additional review may apply

Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

San Mateo FAQ

Do I need a permit to cut down a tree in San Mateo?

Private tree removal in San Mateo generally does not require a city permit. Street tree removal requires Parks Division approval. Heritage or protected trees may require additional review.

What are the tree removal rules in San Mateo?

Private Trees: Generally no permit required. Street Trees: Parks Division approval required. Special Zones: Additional review possible near creeks. Contact: Public Works (650) 522-7300.

South San Francisco FAQ

Do I need a permit to cut down a tree in South San Francisco?

Private tree removal on private property in South San Francisco generally does not require a city permit. Street tree removal requires Public Works approval. Trees in special overlay zones may need additional review.

What are the tree removal rules in South San Francisco?

Private Trees: Generally no city permit required. Street Trees: Public Works approval required. Near Creeks: Additional review may apply. Contact: Planning Division (650) 877-8535.

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