Marin County, CA Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)
Key Facts
- Native Tree Chapter
- Marin County Code Ch. 22.27
- Tree Removal Permit Chapter
- Marin County Code Ch. 22.62
- Protected Tree
- Native oak/willow 6 in. diameter or greater
- Heritage Tree
- Native oak/willow 18 in. diameter or greater
- Replacement Ratio
- 2:1 for removed Protected Trees
Summary
Marin County Development Code Chapters 22.27 (Native Tree Protection and Preservation) and 22.62 (Tree Removal Permits) require a Tree Removal Permit before removing Protected or Heritage trees in unincorporated Marin. Routine pruning is generally allowed, but heavy trimming or removal of native oaks and willows triggers permit review.
Protected Trees shall not be removed except in compliance with Section 22.62.040 (Exemptions), and as provided for in Chapter 22.62 (Tree Removal Permits). A Tree Removal Permit is required where: more than two (2) Protected Trees are being removed from a developed lot in a 12-month period; the tree qualifies as a Heritage Tree; the tree is a Protected Tree or Heritage Tree and is located in a Stream Conservation Area or a Wetland Conservation Area; any removal of Protected Trees on a vacant lot.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Municipal Code: Supplement 2026 Update 1).
Full Breakdown
62 (Tree Removal Permits). A Tree Removal Permit is required when (a) more than two Protected Trees would be removed from a developed lot in any 12-month period, (b) a Heritage Tree would be removed, (c) any Protected/Heritage Tree in a Stream or Wetland Conservation Area would be removed, or (d) any Protected Trees on a vacant lot would be removed. 040 cover trees that are dead, dangerous, or so diseased they cannot be saved. 27. 27.
Violations & Fines
Removing or substantially damaging a Protected or Heritage Tree without a permit is a violation of Title 22 (Development Code) and may be cited under County Code Title 1. Penalties include stop-work orders, replacement-tree mitigation (often 2:1 or higher), monetary contributions to the Tree Preservation Fund where on-site replacement is infeasible, and administrative/civil fines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prune my native oak without a permit?
What if my native oak is dead or hazardous?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Marin County
California rules heatmap·Compare Marin County to another location·View the California landscaping rules overview
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