Antioch, CA Landscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage Trees (2026)

The City of Antioch protects trees on public and private property through its Tree Preservation Ordinance codified at Antioch Municipal Code Chapter 9-5.3813 (within the Zoning Ordinance). Protected trees generally include: (1) any native oak (valley oak, blue oak, coast live oak, interior live oak) with a trunk diameter at breast height (DBH, measured 4.5 feet above grade) of 10 inches or greater; (2) any tree 20 inches DBH or greater regardless of species; (3) all trees within public rights-of-way and on city property; and (4) any tree required to be planted or preserved under a prior discretionary approval. Removal requires a Tree Removal Permit from the Community Development Department, with application fees typically $150-$400. Approval requires demonstrating hazard, dead/dying condition, disease, or substantial construction conflict; aesthetic preference is generally insufficient. Approved removal of a protected tree normally triggers replacement planting at a 3:1 ratio with 24-inch box native trees, or payment of in-lieu fees to the city's tree fund. Street tree removal and pruning must be coordinated with the Public Works Department. Unpermitted removal is a misdemeanor punishable by fines up to $1,000 per tree, replacement at up to 5:1, and restoration of the site. Dead-tree emergency removal may proceed with after-the-fact documentation to avoid penalties. Heritage tree designations may impose additional protections.