Clovis, CA Tree Protection: Protected Tree Species (2026)

Section 9.30.040 lists six categories of protected trees, applicable except as otherwise provided in Section 9.30.050 (Exemptions). Category A covers heritage trees in all zoning districts. Category B covers any tree required to be planted or retained as a condition of approval of a development application or building permit, in all zoning districts. Categories C and D set the size threshold: for multi-trunk trees, any trunk 12 inches or more in diameter, or 38 inches or more in circumference, measured four feet above adjacent grade, is protected, except on developed single-family residential properties; for single-trunk trees the same 12-inch diameter or 38-inch circumference threshold applies citywide, again except on developed single-family residential lots. Category E protects parkway trees and any tree on public property, and Category F protects trees required or memorialized under site plan review per Chapter 56 of Title 9.

Section 9.30.050 then exempts several categories outright: trees posing an immediate threat during an emergency, as ordered by the Director, Public Utilities Director, or a Police or Fire Department member; trees the Building Official, Director, Fire Chief, or Public Utilities Director declares a public nuisance under Chapter 1 of Title 10; trees undermining the safe operation of public utilities; and fruit trees in any zoning district. Because the diameter-based categories carve out developed single-family lots, most homeowners only need a permit for a heritage tree, a condition-of-approval tree, a parkway tree, or a site-plan-review tree.