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

Tree removal in unincorporated Santa Clara County is regulated under the Heritage Tree Ordinance and the Hillside Ordinance. A permit is required before removing any heritage tree, which generally includes native oaks (coast live oak, valley oak, blue oak, black oak) with trunk diameter of 12 inches or more at 4.5 feet above ground, plus other protected native species including madrone, bay, big leaf maple, buckeye, and redwood at larger thresholds. Applications are submitted to Planning and Development with an arborist report justifying removal (dead, diseased, hazardous, or conflicting with approved construction). Replacement planting is typically required using a replacement ratio tied to the size of the removed tree. In hillside zoning districts, broader protections apply to stands of trees regardless of species to preserve slope stability and scenic character. Emergency removal for imminent hazard is permitted with post-removal documentation. Fines for unpermitted heritage tree removal can exceed 10,000 dollars per tree plus restoration planting.