Fairfield, CA Tree Protection: Protected Tree Species (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- FMC § 25.36.3(C)
- Protected species
- Native oak, bay laurel, madrone, buckeye
- Size threshold
- Over 6 inches diameter at breast height
- Applies to
- Undeveloped private property
- Measurement point
- 4.5 feet above ground level
- Public-land counterpart
- § 25.36.8(C), same species and size test
Summary
On undeveloped private property in Fairfield, four native tree species are automatically protected once they reach 6 inches in trunk diameter: native oaks, bay laurel, madrone and buckeye, listed by name in Section 25.36.3(C) of the Tree Conservation ordinance.
The following species of trees located on undeveloped private properties which exceed 6 inches in caliper or diameter at breast height. Breast height is measured at a point located 4-1/2 feet above the existing ground level of the tree: 1. Native Oaks Quercus 2. Bay Laurel Umbelluraria californica 3. Madrone Arbutus menziesi 4. Buckeye Aesculus californica
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: current through Ordinance 2026-02, passed February 17, 2026).
Full Breakdown
3(C) of the Tree Conservation chapter names four specific tree species as protected wherever they grow on undeveloped private property in Fairfield, once they pass a size threshold: native oaks (Quercus), bay laurel (Umbellularia californica), madrone (Arbutus menziesii), and buckeye (Aesculus californica), each protected once it exceeds 6 inches in caliper or diameter at breast height, measured at a point located 4-1/2 feet above the existing ground level of the tree. 3(D): a qualifying oak, bay laurel, madrone or buckeye is protected automatically, with no project review or special study needed to trigger it, as long as the parcel is undeveloped. 5 before removing it, and the Director works with Public Works on mitigation. 5.
Violations & Fines
Removing a qualifying native oak, bay laurel, madrone or buckeye over 6 inches in diameter from undeveloped private property without a Tree Removal Permit is unlawful under Section 25.36.4, charged as an infraction under FMC § 1.7, and triggers mitigation planting of three replacement inches for every inch of trunk removed under Section 25.36.9.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which tree species are automatically protected in Fairfield?
How is the 6-inch protected-tree diameter measured in Fairfield?
Do these species rules apply on developed lots too?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Fairfield
California rules heatmap·Compare Fairfield to another location·View the California tree protection overview
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Protected Tree Species in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Solano County handle protected tree species.