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

Article XXXVIII, section 30.38.270 protects three categories of trees on private property in Gilroy: any protected tree (a single-trunk indigenous tree of 38 inches or more in circumference measured 4-1/2 feet above grade), a community of protected trees when more than 25% of the trees within the outermost dripline would be removed, and any heritage tree. Section 30.38.270(c) makes it unlawful to cut down, remove, poison, damage, kill or destroy any of these without first securing a tree removal permit. To apply under subsection (d), the property owner submits a form to the planning division along with an arborist report from an ISA-certified arborist covering the tree's species, height, circumference, health, ISA valuation, risk, and why the tree cannot be saved through pruning, structural support, cultural improvements or pest management.

Subsection (e) requires a posted notice on the tree and mailed notice to adjacent and across-the-street owners at least ten days before the planning division acts. Under subsection (g), approval requires findings such as the tree being dead, diseased, hazardous, causing damage, or creating an unusual hardship, plus a finding that no tree management technique can save it. Subsection (h) requires replacement trees per Table 1, sized by the removed tree's circumference, or an in-lieu payment approved by the director of public works. Appeals under subsection (j) go to the planning commission within 20 days.