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

Newport Beach's heritage tree program identifies and protects trees of exceptional value to the community. Trees may be designated as heritage trees by the City Council based on criteria including species rarity, trunk diameter (generally 36 inches or greater at breast height for certain species), historical or cultural significance, contribution to the community's aesthetic character, and ecological value. Common heritage tree species in Newport Beach include Moreton Bay figs, coral trees, California sycamores, and mature Canary Island date palms. Once designated, heritage trees receive the highest level of protection under the municipal code. No person may remove, relocate, significantly prune, or cause damage to a heritage tree without prior approval from the City Council following a public hearing. Even routine maintenance pruning of heritage trees should follow International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) standards. Property owners with heritage trees on their land must maintain the trees in good health and may apply for city assistance with maintenance costs in some cases. When development projects affect heritage trees, the developer must submit a tree protection plan prepared by a certified arborist detailing root zone protection, construction barriers, and long-term preservation measures. The city maintains a registry of designated heritage trees. Residents may nominate trees for heritage designation through the Municipal Operations Department.