Sacramento County Code §19.12 defines a 'Heritage Tree' as a California oak (any native oak species) with diameter at breast height (dbh) of 60 inches or greater. Heritage Oaks in Carmichael have the strongest tree protections - any work requires a permit and special arborist review.
Under SCC Ch. 19.12, Heritage Oaks (60-inch+ dbh native California oak species) are subject to heightened protection. Any work - trim, root pruning, grading near dripline, removal - requires a Sacramento County Tree Permit reviewed by the County Tree Coordinator (916-874-6141) with arborist documentation. Heritage Oaks are mapped in the County's tree inventory; many ancient valley oaks along the American River and in Carmichael's historic neighborhoods qualify. Damaging or removing a Heritage Oak without a permit can result in misdemeanor charges plus mandatory replacement at 1:1 combined diameter ratio with 15-gallon specimens or payment of full retail tree cost to the Tree Preservation Fund.
Unpermitted Heritage Oak removal: misdemeanor under SCC §19.12 - up to $500 fine and/or six months jail PER §19.12.110. Mandatory replacement at 1:1 diameter ratio using 15-gallon specimens. Property liens for cost recovery. Civil suit possible under Cal Civ Code §3346 (treble damages for wrongful injury to timber/trees).
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