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

Concord Municipal Code chapter 8.50 establishes the Tree Preservation Ordinance. A "protected tree" generally includes any tree with a trunk diameter of 10 inches or more measured 4.5 feet above ground (diameter at breast height, DBH), certain heritage species regardless of size (native oaks like coast live oak, valley oak, and blue oak), and all trees in the public right-of-way (street trees). Removing a protected tree requires a tree removal permit from the Community Development Department. Applications require an arborist report for heritage or questionable-health trees, site plans, photos, and reasons for removal such as disease, death, hazard, or construction conflict. Permit fees typically range from $150 to $400 depending on tree count and arborist review needs. Approved removals usually require replacement planting at 1:1 or 2:1 ratios with minimum 15-gallon trees, or payment of an in-lieu fee to the city's tree fund. Removing a protected tree without a permit can result in administrative penalties of $1,000 or more per tree, replacement requirements, and a restoration bond. Trees on private property that pose immediate hazards (uprooted, fallen, severely damaged) may be removed in emergencies with after-the-fact notice. Street tree maintenance is the city's responsibility, but adjacent owners may not remove them without city consent.