Contra Costa County, CA Tree Protection: Heritage & Protected Trees (2026)
Key Facts
- Heritage tree size threshold
- 72+ inches circumference at 4.5 ft
- Nomination fee
- $100 per application
- Appeal fee
- $50 per appeal
- Protected root radius
- Drip line or 12 feet from trunk
- Enforcing agency
- Dept. of Conservation and Development
- Appeal body
- Planning commission under Ch. 26-2
Summary
Contra Costa County protects registered heritage trees countywide under Ordinance Code Chapter 816-4. A heritage tree is any tree seventy-two inches or more in trunk circumference, or one the Board of Supervisors specifically designates for historical, ecological or specimen value. Destroying, cutting down or removing a designated heritage tree without a Department of Conservation and Development permit is prohibited.
"Heritage tree" means: (1)A tree seventy-two inches or more in circumference measured four and one-half feet above the natural grade; or (2)Any tree or a group of trees particularly worthy of protection, and specifically designated as a heritage tree by the board of supervisors pursuant to the provisions of this chapter, because of: (A)Having historical or ecological interest or significance, or (B)Being dependent upon each other for health or survival, or (C)Being considered an outstanding specimen of its species... Except as provided in this chapter, no person shall destroy or remove any designated heritage tree unless a permit has been obtained therefor. This chapter does not require a permit for nor prevent trimming, pruning, or maintenance of a heritage tree where such does not result in destruction nor substantially change the tree's form or shape.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Ordinance Code: Supplement 103).
Full Breakdown
202. 404. 404(f)). 602 bars destroying or removing it without a destruction permit, though routine trimming or pruning that does not change the tree's form is exempt. 1002). 1004). 1006). 604). 804 bans dumping oil, gas or chemicals, or storing heavy equipment, within that same radius.
Violations & Fines
Destroying, cutting down or removing a designated heritage tree without a Department of Conservation and Development permit violates § 816-4.602. Damaging roots through unauthorized excavation, fill, or equipment storage within the drip line or a twelve-foot radius (§§ 816-4.802, 816-4.804), attaching signs or wire that could injure the tree (§ 816-4.808), or burning near the drip line (§ 816-4.806) are also prohibited. Contractors, developers or owners must notify the building inspection department without delay of any construction damage to a heritage tree and pay for repair or replacement at their own expense (§ 816-4.810).
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to remove a heritage tree in unincorporated Contra Costa County?
What size tree qualifies as a heritage tree?
Can I remove a hazardous heritage tree in an emergency?
Who decides whether my removal permit is approved?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Contra Costa County
California rules heatmap·Compare Contra Costa County to another location·View the California tree protection overview
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