Fremont Tree Trimming Rules (2026): What You Need to Know

Fremont Municipal Code Chapter 18.215 establishes the city's Tree Preservation Ordinance, which governs the removal, pruning, and protection of trees throughout the city. Protected trees include any tree with a trunk diameter of twelve inches or more measured at fifty-four inches above grade (DBH), all street trees planted in the public right-of-way regardless of size, all trees on city-owned property, and trees planted or preserved as conditions of a development permit or subdivision approval. Native oaks (Quercus species), California bay laurels (Umbellularia californica), and other native species receive particular attention during permit review.

A tree removal permit from the Community Development Department is required before removing any protected tree. The application must include the species, size, location, condition, and reason for the requested removal, and is typically reviewed by the city's Urban Forestry staff or a contract arborist. Acceptable grounds for removal include the tree being dead, dying, or severely diseased beyond treatment; the tree creating an imminent hazard to persons or property as documented by a certified arborist; the tree causing significant, unrepairable damage to building foundations, sewer laterals, or other infrastructure; or the removal being necessary for an approved development project. Aesthetic preferences, leaf litter, shading of solar panels, and minor root intrusion are generally not sufficient grounds for removal.

Replacement planting is typically required as a condition of any removal permit. The standard replacement ratio in Fremont is two new trees for every one tree removed, with replacement trees being a minimum fifteen-gallon container size. For heritage trees or exceptional specimens, the replacement ratio may be higher, and the applicant may be required to contribute to the city's tree planting fund. Street trees — those planted in the public right-of-way between the curb and sidewalk — are maintained by the City of Fremont Public Works Department. Residents may not prune, remove, or alter street trees without prior written authorization from the city. Pruning of protected trees on private property does not require a permit for routine maintenance (deadwood removal, sucker growth, clearance pruning for structures or utilities), but removing more than twenty-five percent of the live canopy in a single year is considered excessive and may require a permit.