Protected Tree Species: Santa Rosa vs Sonoma
How do protected tree species rules compare between Santa Rosa, CA and Sonoma, CA?
Santa Rosa, CA
Sonoma County
No data available yet for Santa Rosa.
Sonoma, CA
Sonoma County
Sonoma does not single out species by name; instead Chapter 12.08 protects all trees that meet the 'significant tree' definition in §12.08.020 — which captures many oaks, elms, maples, redwoods, and cedars — plus designated heritage trees under Chapter 12.09.
View full Sonoma rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Santa Rosa | Sonoma |
|---|---|---|
| Protection mechanism | - | Size/condition-based 'significant tree' definition, not a species list |
| Code section | - | Sonoma Municipal Code §12.08.020 (definitions), §12.08.032 (significant trees) |
| Commonly captured species | - | Oaks, elms, maples, redwoods, cedars |
| Highest protection | - | Heritage trees designated under SMC §12.09.020 |
| County analog | - | Sonoma County Code Ch. 26D — Heritage and Landmark Trees |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Santa Rosa FAQ
No FAQs available.
Sonoma FAQ
Are oaks specifically protected in Sonoma?
Sonoma's ordinance is not species-specific, but many oak species qualify as 'significant trees' under SMC §12.08.020 and therefore require a removal permit under §12.08.050.
What about a 50-inch oak — does that get special status?
Yes. A tree that is 50 inches or more in diameter at 24 inches above natural grade meets one of the criteria for heritage tree designation under SMC §12.09.020 — but designation still requires Parks and Recreation Commission action and Council acceptance.
What if my tree is in unincorporated Sonoma County?
County trees fall under Sonoma County Code Chapter 26D (Heritage and Landmark Trees), administered by Permit Sonoma, not the City.
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