Santa Rosa, CA Tree Protection: Heritage & Protected Trees (2026)
Key Facts
- Smallest qualifying size
- 6-inch diameter (valley oak, buckeye)
- Largest qualifying size
- 24-inch diameter (redwood, Douglas fir, maple)
- Permit issuer
- Department of Community Development
- Permit validity
- 60 days from issuance
- Violation penalty
- Misdemeanor under Chapter 1-28
- Post-violation consequence
- 2-year ban on development permits for property
Summary
Santa Rosa protects heritage trees, native oaks, redwoods, and other listed species above a set trunk diameter, plus any tree the Planning Commission formally designates for historic or cultural value. Municipal Code Section 17-24.030 makes it unlawful to alter, remove, or relocate a heritage tree anywhere in the City without a permit from the Department of Community Development.
"Heritage tree" means any of the following: (1) A tree or grove of trees so designated by a resolution of the Planning Commission, upon nomination by the Director of Community Development or the Planning Commission and after the holding of a noticed public hearing, having a specific historical or cultural association or value due to its age, species, character, location, height and/or the circumstances of its planting or origin. (2) Any of the following trees, native to the County, whether located on private or public property, which has a diameter or a circumference equal to or greater than that listed below: (a) Quercus lobata—valley oak, 6″, 19″... 2. Sequoia sempervirens—redwood, 24, 75... § 17-24.030. No person shall alter, remove or relocate, or permit or cause the alteration, removal or relocation, of any tree, including any heritage, protected, or street tree, situated in the City, without a permit as provided in this chapter.
Full Breakdown
5 feet above grade. The size table sets low bars for some species, valley oak and buckeye qualify at just a 6-inch diameter (19-inch circumference), while redwood, bay, Douglas fir, and big-leaf maple must reach 24 inches (75-inch circumference); several oak species and alders qualify at 18 inches (57-inch circumference). 030 bars altering, removing, or relocating it, or any protected or street tree, anywhere in the City without a Department of Community Development permit. 040 requires a written application identifying each tree, and the Director evaluates the tree's condition, its fall zone, its effect on erosion and other trees in the area, and whether good urban-forestry practice supports removal, after personally inspecting the tree.
Approved permits are valid 60 days. A handful of exceptions apply without a permit: hazard trees threatening life or property, City-maintained trees in City parks (other than heritage trees), utility and sightline trimming done to accepted arboricultural standards, and 11 exempt species such as acacia, silver maple, and fruit trees other than walnut. 050 requiring replacement trees, generally two 15-gallon trees per six inches of diameter removed, or four per six inches for a protected tree removed without approval.
Violations & Fines
Violating Chapter 17-24 is a misdemeanor under Section 17-24.100, punishable under Chapter 1-28. In lieu of prosecution, Section 17-24.130 lets a violator petition to plant four replacement trees per six inches of diameter removed without a permit. Separately, Section 17-24.140 bars the property owner from getting any development approval or building permit on the property for two years after the City discovers the violation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a tree a protected 'heritage tree' in Santa Rosa?
Do I need a permit to cut down a large oak in my yard?
What happens if I remove a heritage tree without a permit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Santa Rosa
California rules heatmap·Compare Santa Rosa to another location·View the California tree protection overview
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Heritage & Protected Trees in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Sonoma County handle heritage & protected trees.