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

Section 9.30.030 (Prohibited actions) states it is unlawful to remove a protected tree from private property without first obtaining a tree removal permit in compliance with Section 9.30.060. Applications go to the Public Utilities Department under Section 9.30.060(A)(1) and must include a written explanation of why the tree should be removed, photographs of the tree, an arborist report, the property owner's signature (plus a homeowners association vote where an HOA applies), a replanting plan under Section 9.30.090, any additional information the Director requires, and a permit fee if one applies. The Director may waive requirements such as the arborist report for developed single-family (R-1) properties under Section 9.30.060(A)(2). Applications for any property other than developed R-1 must also include a tree survey plan showing the number, location, species, and size of each tree to be removed, measured four feet above grade, per Section 9.30.060(B).

Section 9.30.070 lists the only three grounds on which the review authority may approve a permit: the tree is irreparably diseased or presents an uncontrollable falling hazard; it can cause substantial damage to structures, public infrastructure, or utility services that cannot be reasonably remedied; or retaining it restricts the property's economic enjoyment or creates an unusual hardship compared with similarly situated properties, with no reasonable alternative to preserve the tree. City staff may inspect the tree before removal, and an approved permit must stay on site throughout the removal work. Approval can be conditioned on replacement trees under Section 9.30.090, an in-lieu fee under Section 9.30.100, or a combination of both.