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

Novato Municipal Code § 17-1.2(c) defines a heritage tree two ways. The first is any native or non-native woody plant with a major trunk or trunks of 24 inches in diameter (75 inches in circumference) or more, measured 24 inches above existing grade. The second is any other tree the city council designates after finding that it has special historical associations because of its age, character, species or location. The size test applies to non-native plants as well as natives, so a large imported tree counts the same as a valley oak.

Section 17-1.3 makes it unlawful for any person or group to alter or remove, or cause to be altered or removed, one or more heritage trees on any parcel in the city without a permit. Under § 17-1.2(a), to alter means to take action in a way that could reasonably be said to diminish the vigor of the tree, so heavy pruning, root damage or grade changes under the canopy can trigger the permit requirement even when the tree stays standing. The prohibition does not apply to dead or fallen trees, or to activities by local, state and federal agencies to control sudden death oak syndrome or similar vectors.

The purpose statement in § 17-1.1 explains the City's reasoning: trees of significant size or age are part of the natural heritage of all Novato's citizens, the city is covered in significant portions by oak, madrone and other trees, and most property sits on hillside and sloping terrain, where tree removal increases erosion, stream sedimentation and slope hazards.

The permit itself runs through § 17-1.4 and the community development director. Public notice is not required for maintenance or minor pruning of heritage trees. Utilities have their own track under § 17-3.5(b): they can perform emergency removals or trimming of hazardous trees but must notify the director within one week with the location and circumstances, and in other cases involving a street tree or heritage tree they apply for a tree removal permit. Decisions can be appealed to the city council under § 17-1.5. Native trees and woodlands on development sites are also subject to division 19.39 of the zoning ordinance under § 17-2.