Tree Protection in Riverside County, CA (2026)

4 county-level rules, plus city-specific rules for 6 cities in Riverside County, California.

Verified from official government sources

Note: These county rules apply to unincorporated areas of Riverside County. If you live within an incorporated city, that city's own rules apply — see the city list below.

Tree Removal Permits

Riverside County Ordinance No. 559 (Oak Tree Preservation) requires permits to remove native oak trees with a trunk diameter of 6 inches or more at 4.5 feet above grade. Western sycamores and certain other natives are also protected in Western Riverside MSHCP areas. Permits are processed through the Planning Department.

Tree Removal Permits in Riverside County

Heavy Restrictions

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Heritage & Protected Trees

Riverside County does not maintain a formal heritage tree registry, but Ordinance No. 559 and the Western Riverside MSHCP effectively protect mature native oaks, sycamores, and desert natives (Joshua trees, Palo Verde). Trees on historic properties may have additional CEQA-level protection.

Heritage Tree Protections in Riverside County

Heavy Restrictions

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Tree Replacement Requirements

When oak trees are removed under Ordinance No. 559, replacement is required at ratios ranging from 3:1 to 10:1 depending on the size of the removed tree. Replacement trees must be native species, typically 15-gallon minimum, with a 3-5 year establishment monitoring period.

Tree Replacement Requirements in Riverside County

Some Restrictions

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Tree Ordinances

Riverside County's tree regulations include Ordinance No. 559 (oak preservation), Ordinance No. 457 (tree-trimming in public rights-of-way), and the Western Riverside MSHCP. State laws also apply: CA Desert Native Plants Act, Western Joshua Tree Conservation Act, and PRC §4291 (defensible space).