Tree Protection in Contra Costa County, CA (2026)
2 county-level rules, plus city-specific rules for 3 cities in Contra Costa County, California.
Verified from official government sources
Heritage & Protected Trees
Contra Costa County protects registered heritage trees countywide under Ordinance Code Chapter 816-4. A heritage tree is any tree seventy-two inches or more in trunk circumference, or one the Board of Supervisors specifically designates for historical, ecological or specimen value. Destroying, cutting down or removing a designated heritage tree without a Department of Conservation and Development permit is prohibited.
Contra Costa Heritage Tree Removal Permit
Significant RestrictionsContra Costa County Ordinance Code §§ 816-4.402, 816-4.602 (Ord. 88-83)
"Heritage tree" means: (1)A tree seventy-two inches or more in circumference measured four and one-half feet above the natural grade; or (2)Any tree or a group of trees particularly worthy of protection, and specifically designated as a heritage tree by the board of supervisors pursuant to the provisions of this chapter, because of: (A)Having historical or ecological interest or significance, o...
Parkway Planting
In unincorporated Contra Costa County, planting a tree along a public street requires the species and exact planting location to be approved in advance by the Public Works Department, plus a separate encroachment permit before anyone digs or plants in the right-of-way. Trees that block sight lines or overhang the pavement must be removed or trimmed to clear the hazard.
Contra Costa County Street Tree Planting Rules
Some RestrictionsContra Costa County Ordinance Code §§ 98-10.004, 98-10.006
98-10.004 - Approval of species and planting. Trees to be planted along the street within the right-of-way shall be of such species and be planted in such locations as may be approved by the public works department. (Ord. 78-5). 98-10.006 - Encroachment permit. An encroachment permit shall be obtained from the public works department for street tree planting. (Ord. 78-5).
Tree Protection by City in Contra Costa County
3 cities in Contra Costa County have their own tree protection rules. Each link goes to that city's dedicated page with code citations.
All Contra Costa County ordinances
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