Tree removal permit rules in Rancho Cordova, CA — sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances — list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
Rancho Cordova protects heritage and native oak trees, particularly valley oaks and interior live oaks. Removal of protected trees typically requires a tree permit and may require mitigation or replacement planting. Street trees in the right-of-way cannot be removed without city approval.
Rancho Cordova enforces tree preservation provisions that align with Sacramento County heritage oak policies. Native oaks including valley oak (Quercus lobata), blue oak, and interior live oak above specified diameters (often 6 inches at breast height for multi-trunk specimens or 19 inches for single trunk) generally require a permit to remove. Removal of a heritage or landmark-designated tree without a permit can result in fines and replacement planting equal to the appraised value under ISA methods. Street trees may not be removed without city arborist approval. Development projects may trigger a tree report under CEQA review. Dead, dying, or hazardous trees may be removed with a hazard tree determination but documentation should be retained.
Unpermitted removal of protected oaks can trigger fines and in-kind or in-lieu mitigation planting. Penalties may equal three times the appraised value of the removed tree.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Sacramento County.
See how other cities in Sacramento County handle tree removal & heritage trees.
See how Rancho Cordova's tree removal & heritage trees rules stack up against other locations.
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