Tree Protection in San Bernardino County, CA (2026)

2 county-level rules, plus city-specific rules for 8 cities in San Bernardino County, California.

Verified from official government sources

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

Heritage & Protected Trees

San Bernardino County classifies three or more palm trees planted in a linear windrow or parkway row 50 feet or longer as heritage trees, requiring a Tree or Plant Removal Permit before removal in the unincorporated Mountain and Valley Regions.

San Bernardino County Heritage Palm Tree Rules

Some Restrictions

San Bernardino County Code § 88.01.070(b)(2)

(2) Palm Trees. Three or more palm trees in linear plantings, which are 50 feet or greater in length within established windrows or parkway plantings, shall be considered to be heritage trees and shall be subject to the provisions of this Chapter regarding native trees.

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Protected Tree Species

Joshua trees, mesquites, desert ironwood, palo verde and other listed desert native plants can't be removed on unincorporated land without a county Tree or Plant Removal Permit.

Protected Desert Native Plants, San Bernardino County

Significant Restrictions

San Bernardino County Code § 88.01.060(c)

The following desert native plants...shall not be removed except under a Tree or Plant Removal Permit... (2) All species of the family Agavaceae (century plants, nolinas, yuccas). (3) Creosote Rings, ten feet or greater in diameter. (4) All Joshua trees. (5) Any part of the following species, whether living or dead: (A) Olneya tesota (desert ironwood)... (C) All species of the genus Cercidium (...

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗