Tree removal permit rules in Palo Alto, CA — sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances — list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
Removing protected or street trees in Palo Alto requires a permit. Heritage trees and regulated oaks can only be removed with findings of hazard, disease, or undue hardship, and replacement trees are typically required.
Under Palo Alto Municipal Code Chapter 8.04, it is unlawful to remove any street tree or protected tree without a permit from the city. Protected trees include coast live oak, valley oak, blue oak, and certain other species exceeding 11.5 inches diameter at breast height (measured at 4.5 feet), plus any tree designated as a heritage tree by the council. Removal requires an application, arborist report, and posted notice giving neighbors time to comment. Approval is granted only where the tree is dead, dying, hazardous, significantly damaging structures, or where removal is necessary for an approved project with no alternative. Replacement with one or more trees of specified size and species is almost always required, and unauthorized removal can result in fines up to 5,000 dollars per tree plus restoration.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Santa Clara County.
See how other cities in Santa Clara County handle tree removal & heritage trees.
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