Chico, CA Tree Protection: Heritage & Protected Trees (2026)
Key Facts
- Program type
- Voluntary, owner or resident nomination
- Size threshold (oak/sycamore)
- 36 inches DBH or greater
- Review body
- Bidwell Park and Playground Commission
- Final decision
- Chico City Council
Summary
Chico lets residents nominate landmark trees for Heritage Tree status, triggering a recorded notice and removal protection.
The City Council may designate a tree as a Heritage Tree if it meets any of the following criteria: 1. Any native Oak (Quercus) species or Sycamore (Platanus) species, having a diameter at breast height of thirty-six (36) inches or greater when a single trunk... Once a tree is designated as a Heritage Tree, a Notice of Heritage Tree Designation shall be recorded against the property on which the tree is located.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Supplement contains local legislation current through: Codified Resolution No. 53-26, adopted 7-14-26 and Ordinance No. 2622, adopted 6-2-26).
Full Breakdown
Under Chico Municipal Code Chapter 16.68, any person may apply to the director to designate a tree a Heritage Tree, with the property owner's written consent if someone else applies. The urban forest manager evaluates the application and forwards it to the Bidwell Park and Playground Commission, which recommends to the City Council. Qualifying criteria include native oaks or sycamores at 36 inches DBH or greater, outstanding specimens of desirable species, trees of historical interest, or unusual/distinctive-form trees. Once designated, a Notice of Heritage Tree Designation is recorded against the property (public-property trees are exempt from recording), and removal is only permitted through the Chapter 16.66 tree removal permit process.
Violations & Fines
Removing a designated Heritage Tree without the required Chapter 16.66 tree removal permit exposes the responsible party to the same civil penalties as unlawful removal of any protected tree: twice the appraised value or $5,000 per tree for major damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can nominate a Heritage Tree in Chico?
Does Heritage Tree status apply automatically to old trees?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Chico
California rules heatmap·Compare Chico to another location·View the California tree protection overview
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