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

FMC § 15-2308(C) bars removing, pruning, or materially altering a 'Protected Tree' without a Tree Removal Permit; ordinary trimming is exempt. Protected categories include Heritage Trees, multi-trunk trees with at least one trunk 12 inches or greater in diameter (or 38 inches or greater in circumference, measured four feet above grade), any single-trunk tree meeting that same 12-inch/38-inch threshold, parkway and public-property trees, and any tree required as a condition of a development approval or building permit. The 12-inch-diameter and multi-trunk categories exempt developed single-unit residential lots, though a tree on such a lot can still be protected if it carries a Heritage designation.

Heritage status is granted after an owner-consented application (assessor's parcel number, description of aesthetic/cultural/historic value, photographs), followed by a Planning Commission public hearing held within 30 days of a complete application and ten-day site posting; findings must show the tree is an outstanding specimen, of significant age or girth, or of agricultural, cultural, or historic significance, and an approved designation is recorded with the County Recorder. Removal applications require a written justification, tree survey and arborist report (waived for single-unit residential), photographs, HOA sign-off where applicable, a replanting plan, and a permit fee; the Director decides non-heritage requests within ten business days, while heritage removals go to the Planning Commission.

Permits issue only on findings of disease/fall hazard, potential structural or utility damage, or documented economic hardship. During nearby construction, chemicals and equipment cannot be stored within a Protected Tree's drip line, no signs or wires may be attached, and no open flame is allowed near the protected perimeter. (Added Ord. 2015-39, § 1, eff. 1-9-16; amended Ord. 2025-024, § 43, eff. )