Contra Costa County, CA Landscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage Trees (2026)

816-6.6002 — Prohibition. No person shall trench, grade or fill within the dripline of any protected tree or cut down, destroy, trim by topping or remove any protected tree on private property within the county without a tree permit, except as provided for in Section 816-4.1002. 816-6.8002 — Permit requirement. Any person proposing to trench, grade or fill within the dripline of any protected tree or cut down, destroy, trim by topping or remove any protected tree shall apply to the department for a tree permit, not less than ten days prior to the proposed tree removal or tree alterations. Persons who would be eligible to apply for three or more individual tree permits under provisions of this chapter may apply for a collective tree permit for the site. 816-6.8004 — Application. In addition to any other applicable requirements of this code and county ordinances, the application shall include the following information and items: (1) The number, size (including height and diameter measured four and one-half feet above ground), species, location, dripline and condition of each tree proposed to be altered or removed; (2) The reason(s) for alteration or removal; (3) A plot plan showing the approximate location of all trees on the site, including those proposed to remain; (4) Proposed method of tree alteration or removal; (5) Information indicating the effect of tree alteration or removal on soil stability and erosion if located on a steep slope or near any creek; (6) The signature of the property owner or if the permit is requested by someone other than the owner, a written authorization from the owner; (7) Photographs of the tree/s to be affected by grading or trenching, topping or removal; (8) A list and set of stamped envelopes addressed to adjacent property owners…; (9) Additional information as may be required by the county upon review of the above information; (10) Application and permit fees. 816-6.1002 — Permit Exceptions. A tree permit is not required for the following situations: (1) Hazardous Situation. Any tree whose condition creates a hazardous situation which requires immediate action as determined by the director, building inspector, sheriff, involved fire district or a utility company to protect its facilities. (2) Prior Approval. Any tree whose removal was specifically approved as a part of an approved development plan, subdivision, other discretionary project or a building permit. (3) Routine pruning not involving topping or tree removal. (4) Commercial plantings. Planting, removal and harvesting in connection with Christmas tree farms, orchards and nurseries. (5) Rangeland Management [on parcels of at least 20 acres]. (6) Public Agencies/Utilities. Trimming and clearing within public agency or utility easements and rights-of-way for maintenance of easement or right-of-way will not require a tree permit. 816-6.1208 — Violations. Each tree damaged or removed in violation of this chapter shall constitute a separate offense.