San Bernardino, CA Landscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage Trees (2026)
Tree removal permit rules in San Bernardino, CA, sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances, list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
Key Facts
- Permit trigger
- More than 5 trees per 36 months
- Issuing department
- City Development Services Department
- Inspection window
- 10 working days after application
- Appeal body
- Mayor and City Council (Ch. 2.64)
- Penalty
- Infraction/misdemeanor plus restitution
- Exemptions
- Government-ordered removal, tree farms
Summary
San Bernardino requires a city permit before cutting down, uprooting, destroying or removing more than five trees from a development site or parcel within any 36-month period. The Development Services Department issues permits after an inspection confirms removal will not harm the environment or public welfare.
It is unlawful for any person, firm, corporation, partnership or association, either as owner, agent or otherwise, to cut down, uproot, destroy and/or remove more than five trees within any 36-month period from a development site or parcel of property without first being issued a permit from the City Development Services Department.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-2: Supplement contains: Local legislation current through Ord. MC-1666, passed 8-5-2026).
Full Breakdown
020). To apply, the property owner or agent must file a written application with the Planning Official before any removal work begins. 040(A)). 040(B)). 040(C)). 050). 030). 010).
Violations & Fines
Cutting down, uprooting or removing more than five trees from a site within 36 months without a permit is an infraction or misdemeanor under § 15.34.060, punishable per § 1.12.010. On top of any fine, the violator must pay the city restitution for the unlawful destruction or removal, capped at the replacement value of the trees removed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many trees can I remove without a permit in San Bernardino?
Who reviews a San Bernardino tree removal application?
What happens if my tree removal permit is denied?
What is the penalty for illegal tree removal in San Bernardino?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Bernardino
California rules heatmap·Compare San Bernardino to another location·View the California landscaping rules overview
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Tree Removal & Heritage Trees in Nearby Cities
How other cities in San Bernardino County handle tree removal & heritage trees.