Chico, CA Landscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage Trees (2026)
Tree removal permit rules in Chico, CA, sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances, list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
Key Facts
- Designation criteria
- Native oak/sycamore, 36"+ DBH, or unique
- Reviewed by
- Urban Forest Manager, Park Commission
- Final decision
- City Council
- Removal governed by
- Chapter 16.66 permit process
Summary
Chico lets owners, or applicants with owner consent, petition to designate qualifying oaks, sycamores, and other significant trees as Heritage Trees, which are then recorded on title and removable only through the standard tree permit process.
The purpose and intent of the Voluntary Heritage Tree Program is to identify, promote public awareness of, maintain, and protect designated trees within the City of Chico. This program acknowledges that Heritage Trees, whether located on public or private property, are distinct and unique living resources of the City of Chico. ... Heritage trees may only be removed pursuant to Chapter 16.66 of this code.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Supplement contains local legislation current through: Codified Resolution No. 53-26, adopted 7-14-26 and Ordinance No. 2622, adopted 6-2-26).
Full Breakdown
Under Chico's Voluntary Heritage Tree Program, any person may apply to the director, with property-owner consent if the applicant isn't the owner, to designate a tree as a Heritage Tree. The urban forest manager reviews the application and forwards it to the Bidwell Park and Playground Commission, which recommends action to the City Council. Qualifying trees include native oaks or sycamores with a trunk (or cumulative multi-trunk) diameter of 36 inches or more, outstanding specimens, trees of historical interest, or otherwise unusual or distinctive trees. Once designated, a Notice of Heritage Tree Designation is recorded against the property (public property is exempt from recording), and the tree may be removed only under the standard tree removal permit process in Chapter 16.66.
Violations & Fines
Removing a designated Heritage Tree outside the Chapter 16.66 permit process triggers the same civil penalties as unpermitted tree removal, twice the tree's appraised value or $5,000, whichever is greater, under § 16.66.130.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does a tree become a Chico Heritage Tree?
Can a designated Heritage Tree be removed?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Chico
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