Napa, CA Tree Protection: Heritage & Protected Trees (2026)

Napa's heritage-tree framework operates through Chapter 12.45 (Trees on Private Property) (https://ecode360.com/43393111). The chapter defines two categories of protection. First, the Protected Native Tree designation is automatic by species and size: Valley Oak (Quercus lobata) at 12-inch DBH; Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia) at 12-inch DBH; Black Oak (Quercus kelloggii) at 12-inch DBH; Blue Oak (Quercus douglasii) at 6-inch DBH; Coast Redwood (Sequoia sempervirens) at 36-inch DBH; California Bay (Umbellularia californica) at 12-inch DBH; and Black Walnut (Juglans hindsii) at 12-inch DBH, on private property over one acre zoned for residential or agricultural purposes, or on any property zoned commercial or industrial. Second, the Significant Tree Program (https://www.cityofnapa.org/377/Trees-Urban-Forestry) honors historically significant or unique specimens; nominations may be made only by the property owner, are reviewed by the Parks, Recreation and Trees Advisory Commission, and confirmed by City Council resolution. The Significant Tree register currently includes more than 36 trees across the city. Both categories require Tree Advisory Commission approval for removal under §12.45.090, with the same noticed public hearing (300-foot mailed radius), the same findings, and the same Chapter 12.45 Replacement Program (2 trees per 6 inches of removed-tree DBH at minimum 15-gallon container, three-year survivability bond). Notable mature-tree resources in the City of Napa include the Fuller Park heritage grove, the Oxbow Commons and Napa River corridor, and historic oaks along the Napa Valley Vine Trail. Voluntary preservation tools available to landowners include conservation easements through the Land Trust of Napa County (https://www.napalandtrust.org/), which create enforceable restrictions surviving sale of the property.