Concord, CA Landscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage Trees (2026)
Tree removal permit rules in Concord, 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
- Permit for
- Protected tree removal
- Native trees
- 12+ in. protected
- Other trees
- 24+ in. protected
- Code section
- CMC 8.40.140
Summary
Concord requires a permit to remove a protected tree, native oaks 12 inches or larger and most other trees 24 inches or larger in diameter, while non-protected trees may be removed without one. Hazardous trees may be removed in emergencies by order of city officials.
It shall be unlawful for any person to remove, or cause to be removed, any protected tree from any parcel of property in the city without first obtaining a permit to do so; provided, however, that in cases of emergency when a tree is hazardous or dangerous to life or property, it may be removed by order of the Chief of Police, by the Chief of the Contra Costa County Consolidated Fire District, or by the Director of Public Works... Non-protected may be removed without a permit.
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: current through Ordinance 26-425.1, passed March 10, 2026).
Full Breakdown
Concord Municipal Code section 8.40.140 makes it unlawful to remove a protected tree from any parcel without first obtaining a permit. Protected trees include listed native trees (valley oak, coast live oak, and others) 12 inches or more in diameter at breast height and most other trees 24 inches or more, as well as heritage trees. Non-protected trees may be removed without a permit. In emergencies, a hazardous tree may be removed by order of the Chief of Police, the Fire Chief, or the Director of Public Works. Removal applications are reviewed against condition, proximity, and replacement criteria under section 8.40.150.
Violations & Fines
Removing a protected tree without a permit violates CMC 8.40.140 and exposes the responsible party to civil penalties based on the tree's value and the damage done.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Concord?
What about a hazardous tree?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Concord
California rules heatmap·Compare Concord to another location·View the California landscaping rules overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.
Tree Removal & Heritage Trees in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Contra Costa County handle tree removal & heritage trees.