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

Rocklin Municipal Code Section 17.77.030 states the chapter flat prohibition: no person shall remove an oak tree located wholly or partially within the city unless the requirements of Chapter 17.77 are fully met and a permit has been obtained from the director. Section 17.77.040 sets the procedure for developed lots: no oak tree may be removed from a developed lot without first obtaining an oak tree removal permit from the director, using an application form that requires the tree condition, a plot plan of the lot, the reason and objective for removal, the signature of the property owner requesting or consenting to removal, and any other information the director deems necessary.

Within ten days of receiving the application, the director or a representative must meet with the applicant to discuss the proposed removal and investigate alternatives that minimize impact on the tree; one such meeting is mandatory before the director acts. For single-family, duplex, or triplex lots, Section 17.77.045 then requires the director to issue the permit once that meeting concludes, unless the applicant withdraws, but conditions issuance on mitigation, replacement trees or a fee into the Rocklin oak tree preservation fund, unless the director finds the tree dead or diseased enough to pose an injury risk.

Removing a tree without first securing this permit is treated as a distinct, aggravated violation under the chapter penalty section, separate from ordinary permit-condition violations.