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

Yucaipa regulates tree removal in Division DC9, Plant Protection and Management, of the Development Code. Section 89.0115(a) requires a removal permit for any tree or plant subject to the Division, and § 89.0110(a) applies the Division to all private land in the incorporated City of Yucaipa and to City-owned public land.

Two paths lead to a permit. If the removal is part of a land use application, building permit, or other development permit such as grading or a mobile home setdown, that approval serves as the removal permit when it specifically reviews and approves the removal (§ 89.0115(b)). A stand-alone removal needs a permit from the Community Development Director, Planning Commission, or local Fire Authority (§ 89.0115(d)). The reviewing authority can require certification from a tree expert, and a preconstruction inspection comes before development permits are approved.

Not every tree is covered. Section 89.0315 reaches living native trees with a six-inch or greater stem diameter, measured at 4.5 feet above the average ground level, and oak trees have their own permit under Chapter 5. Section 89.0110(b) exempts removals, other than those under Chapters 2 and 5, on lots with a net area of 20,000 square feet or less developed with a primary structure; of any regulated plant or tree within 20 feet of a structure built under a City development permit; and of two or fewer regulated trees per year in the mountain or valley area for private fuel wood.

Removal must be justified under § 89.0120. Qualifying reasons include a tree whose location or dripline interferes with an allowed structure or approved improvement, a tree hazardous to pedestrian or vehicular travel, and a tree causing extensive damage to utilities, sidewalks, or foundations. In the mountain area only, a Registered Professional Forester must certify an overstocked stand. A plot plan showing exactly which trees come out must be approved first (§ 89.0125). During construction, trunks cannot be enclosed within roof lines or decking, and grade changes cannot bury a tree or undercut roots within the dripline (§ 89.0130).