3 county-level rules, plus city-specific rules for 2 cities in San Mateo County, California.
Verified from official government sources
The unincorporated County's Protected Tree Ordinance (Chapter 8.400, Ordinance 4895, 2024) requires a Protected Tree Removal Permit before removing protected trees, with replacement planting and a 3-year maintenance period. Exemptions cover dead trees, true emergencies, and specific fire-risk species near structures. A separate Coastal Zone exemption for hazardous trees runs through July 1, 2026.
Under the 2024 Protected Tree Ordinance (No. 4895), San Mateo County designates Heritage Trees based on exceptional size, species rarity, historical significance, or ecological value. Heritage status can be conferred on mature coast live oaks, valley oaks, redwoods, and other native specimens. Removal is rarely permitted except for documented safety emergencies, and damage to a Heritage Tree triggers the most severe penalties under the ordinance, with fines up to $25,000 per tree plus restoration and restitution.
The San Mateo County Protected Tree Ordinance (No. 4895) requires replacement planting when a Significant or Heritage Tree is removed under permit. Standard replacement ratios range from 1:1 to 3:1 depending on the DBH and species of the removed tree. Replacement trees must meet minimum size specifications (typically 15-gallon to 24-inch box), be from an approved native/adapted species list, and established for a 2-year maintenance period. When on-site replacement is infeasible, an in-lieu fee is paid to the County Tree Replacement Fund.
2 cities in San Mateo County have their own tree protection rules. Each link goes to that city's dedicated page with code citations.
See every category we cover for San Mateo County — parking, noise, fences, fires, animals, pools, and more.
San Mateo County Ordinance Hub →