Protected Tree Species: Sutter vs Yuba City

Are valley oaks protected in Yuba City?

Not by a city ordinance. Valley oak (Quercus lobata) is a native California species but is not state-listed, so there is no automatic protection. However, mature valley oak groves are often considered a 'sensitive natural community' under CEQA, so a project of any significant size that would remove them typically triggers a Biological Resources analysis and mitigation requirement during environmental review under Yuba City Code Title 8 Ch. 9.

I have elderberry shrubs near the Feather River - can I remove them?

Likely not without federal consultation. The valley elderberry longhorn beetle is federally listed as threatened, and its only host is the blue elderberry. USFWS Conservation Guidelines require avoidance, or Section 7 consultation if any federal nexus, or a Section 10 Incidental Take Permit otherwise, for any elderberry with stems 1 inch in diameter or larger within the historic range (which includes the Feather River corridor through Yuba City).

Who decides if a tree species is protected at my project site?

For development projects requiring CEQA review, the lead agency (typically Yuba City Development Services) requires a Biological Resources Assessment from a qualified consultant. The biologist identifies whether protected species or their habitat occur on-site and recommends avoidance, minimization, or mitigation measures. CDFW and USFWS are the regulatory authorities for state and federal listings respectively.