Tree removal permit rules in Corona, CA — sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances — list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
Removing a Corona street tree requires a free Public Works permit under CMC 12.40 with 1:1 replacement. Private trees are usually exempt unless protected natives in the Hillside Overlay.
Under CMC Chapter 12.40, no person may remove, destroy, or substantially damage a street tree without a permit issued by the Public Works Director. Applications require justification (death, disease, infrastructure damage, or hazard), and approval typically requires 1:1 replacement with a city-approved species from the Master Street Tree List. Unpermitted removal triggers restitution based on the trunk-formula appraisal method (often $1,000-$5,000+ per mature tree). On private property, residential homeowners may remove ornamental trees without a permit, but California native species (coast live oak, Engelmann oak, sycamore, walnut) located in the Hillside Development Overlay or on undeveloped parcels are protected and require a tree removal permit plus, in many cases, a certified arborist report. Trees on lots undergoing site plan review, subdivision, or grading permits are tracked in the project's tree preservation plan. Riverside County Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (MSHCP) may apply to certain hillside parcels. Emergency removals (immediate hazard) can be done without a permit but must be reported within 48 hours.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Corona code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Riverside County.
See how other cities in Riverside County handle tree removal & heritage trees.
See how Corona's tree removal & heritage trees rules stack up against other locations.
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