Tree removal permit rules in Berkeley, CA — sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances — list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
Removal of Coast Live Oaks, Redwoods, and trees 12+ inches DBH requires a city permit with replacement. Street tree removal needs Parks approval; unauthorized removal triggers fines up to 10,000 dollars.
Berkeley's tree protection framework under BMC Chapter 6.24 is among the strongest in the East Bay. A permit from the Parks, Recreation and Waterfront Department is required to remove any Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia) with trunk diameter 6 inches or greater measured at 4.5 feet, any Coast Redwood, California Bay, Big Leaf Maple, or Buckeye at 12 inches DBH, and any tree 18 inches DBH on hillside parcels. Street trees in the public right-of-way are city property and may only be removed by Parks. Permits are evaluated for tree health, proximity to structures, and fire hazard. Approved removals require replacement planting at a 1-to-1 or 2-to-1 ratio depending on species. Removal without permit triggers fines up to 10,000 dollars per tree plus replacement costs. Dead or hazardous trees threatening structures may be removed with expedited review. A certified arborist report is required for most applications. Apply through BerkeleyCA.gov or email forestry@berkeleyca.gov.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Alameda County.
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