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

Unlike many Southern California counties, unincorporated Tulare County has not adopted a stand-alone heritage tree or oak protection ordinance applicable to all private property. Removal of trees on a single-family residential parcel typically does not require a discretionary permit from Tulare County. However, three statewide and project-level rules can still trigger review: (1) California Public Resources Code section 21083.4 requires CEQA-level analysis and mitigation when a project converts oak woodlands of one acre or more on unincorporated land; (2) the Tulare County Zoning Ordinance landscape provisions can require replacement plantings when trees are removed in connection with a development permit; (3) trees within a designated Williamson Act preserve, scenic highway corridor, or community plan area (e.g., Three Rivers Community Plan) may have specific protections in the applicable area plan. Within incorporated cities, separate rules apply - for example, the City of Tulare regulates 'Heritage Trees' (including Valley Oaks) under City Ordinance 2025-12, requiring a Notice of Intent to Remove and an arborist's report before removal. Always confirm with Tulare County RMA Planning (559) 624-7000 or the relevant city before removing mature oaks or trees on land subject to a development entitlement.