Tree removal permit rules in San Rafael, CA — sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances — list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
Marin County Code Chapter 22.62 (Tree Removal Permits) requires a permit to remove protected native trees including Coast live oak, California bay, Douglas fir, and Coast redwood — and stricter rules apply to heritage trees. Removing more than two protected trees on a developed lot in 12 months triggers permitting.
Chapter 22.62 of the Marin County Development Code regulates tree removal in unincorporated areas. Protected native species include Coast live oak, California bay laurel, Douglas fir, and Coast redwood. Heritage trees, distinguished by size or historical significance, receive even stricter protection. A tree removal permit is required when removing protected or heritage trees, removing trees in sensitive areas, removing more than two protected trees on a developed lot within 12 months, or removing trees on vacant lots. Exemptions apply for trees that are dead, hazardous, or whose poor health is unlikely to recover. Properties in the coastal zone are governed by the Local Coastal Program instead.
Removing a protected or heritage tree without a Chapter 22.62 permit is a zoning violation. CDA Code Compliance issues notices, fines, and replacement orders. Unpermitted heritage-tree removal can trigger replanting orders and administrative penalties.
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See how San Rafael's tree removal & heritage trees rules stack up against other locations.
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