Tree Protection in Sonoma County, CA (2026)
2 county-level rules, plus city-specific rules for 2 cities in Sonoma County, California.
Verified from official government sources
Heritage & Protected Trees
Removing or damaging a county-designated heritage or landmark tree requires a tree permit from the planning department, with a required site inspection, 15-day public notice period, and board of supervisors approval for the original designation.
Sonoma County Heritage & Landmark Tree Permit Rules
Significant RestrictionsSonoma County Code § 26D-1
This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the Sonoma County Heritage or Landmark Tree Ordinance. Unless otherwise exempt under this chapter, any person or entity proposing to remove or damage a heritage or landmark tree shall obtain a tree permit.
Protected Tree Species
Unincorporated Sonoma County requires a zoning permit before removing a protected tree, redwoods, oaks, and other native hardwoods, and a discretionary use permit with mitigation for the largest specimens.
Sonoma County Protected Tree Species Rules
Some RestrictionsSonoma County Code § 26-88-015
Unless a use permit is required per subsection A.4.b. or an exemption applies under subsection B., a ministerial zoning permit is required for removal of protected trees. ... a use permit is required for the following: 1. Removal of redwoods with single stem d.b.h. exceeding forty-eight inches (48"). 2. Removal of oaks and other hardwoods with single stem d.b.h. exceeding thirty-six inches (36").
Tree Protection by City in Sonoma County
2 cities in Sonoma County have their own tree protection rules. Each link goes to that city's dedicated page with code citations.
All Sonoma County ordinances
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