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

Fullerton's identity is closely tied to its historic tree-lined streets and mature urban forest canopy. The city's tree preservation framework protects both publicly owned trees and significant trees on private property. City-owned trees in parkways, medians, parks, and public rights-of-way are managed exclusively by the Public Works Department. No person may remove, destroy, or significantly alter a city tree without written authorization. Requests for city tree removal must go through Public Works at (714) 738-6897 and are evaluated based on the tree's health, structural integrity, and contribution to the neighborhood canopy. On private property, Fullerton's development review process may require tree preservation plans for projects that would impact mature trees. The Community Development Department reviews tree removal requests in the context of development permits, grading permits, and site plan reviews. Heritage-sized trees — typically defined as native or significant species with trunk diameters of 12 inches or greater measured at 4.5 feet above grade (diameter at breast height or DBH) — receive heightened scrutiny. Property owners seeking to remove such trees may be required to obtain a tree removal permit, provide an arborist report documenting the reason for removal, and plant replacement trees as a condition of approval. Replacement ratios are typically one-for-one or greater depending on the species and size of the tree being removed. California state law (Government Code Section 4290 et seq.) may also apply in fire hazard areas where vegetation management conflicts with tree preservation goals.