Mountain View, CA Tree Protection: Protected Tree Species (2026)

Most trees only earn heritage status, and the removal-permit protection that comes with it, once their trunk reaches a substantial size: forty-eight (48) inches in circumference measured fifty-four (54) inches above natural grade, or that same 48-inch threshold measured just below the first fork on a multi-branched tree, per Sec. 23(c)(1)-(2). Sec. 23(c)(3) singles out three genera for far stricter treatment: any quercus (oak), sequoia (redwood) or cedrus (cedar) becomes a protected heritage tree at a trunk circumference of only twelve (12) inches, roughly a four-inch diameter sapling, measured at the same 54-inch height.

The council can also designate an individual tree or grove of any species as heritage under Sec. 23(c)(4) by resolution, for historical value or community benefit, after giving the property owner at least ten (10) days' written notice under Sec. 24. Once a native oak, redwood or cedar crosses the 12-inch threshold, the full heritage tree article applies: the owner must maintain it in good health under Sec. 25(a), cannot injure, damage, destroy, move or remove it without a permit under Sec. 25(b), and construction or grading within four (4) feet of its base is restricted unless the community development director approves protective measures after review of an arborist's report.

Because the size threshold is so low, ordinary landscaping choices, such as a five-year-old coast live oak sapling, can already fall under this protection in Mountain View, unlike jurisdictions that only protect mature specimens.