Pacifica, CA Tree Protection: Protected Tree Species (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- Pacifica Municipal Code § 4-12.02(n)
- Diameter threshold
- 12 inches DBH, any species
- Also protected
- Director-designated heritage trees; groves of 10+
- Excluded species
- Eucalyptus; California Invasive Plant Council species
- Exclusion limit
- Does not apply to groves or Director override
Summary
In the City of Pacifica, a "protected tree" is any tree on public or private property with a trunk diameter of twelve inches or more, any Director-designated heritage tree, or any grove of ten or more trees. Eucalyptus and species the California Invasive Plant Council lists as invasive are excluded from protection. The distinction determines which trees need a permit before removal or significant pruning.
"Protected tree" shall mean and include:(1)All trees on public and private property within the City of Pacifica, which have a trunk with a diameter of twelve (12") inches or greater at DBH.(2)Any heritage tree designated by the Director.(3)Any groves of trees.(4)Eucalyptus and any species determined invasive by the California Invasive Plants Council are not protected by this chapter, except groves of trees and as the director may deem otherwise.
Full Breakdown
06. 02(i) as a natural grouping of ten or more trees of any species with a minimum six-inch diameter, whether on one parcel or contiguous parcels. The definition then carves out an express exclusion: eucalyptus and any species the California Invasive Plant Council has determined invasive are not protected trees under the chapter, except when they are part of a grove or the Director decides otherwise. That exclusion means a homeowner can remove an unlisted eucalyptus without a Chapter 12 permit in most cases, while a twelve-inch native oak or a designated heritage toyon cannot come down without one. "City trees," covered separately in Chapter 14, are addressed alongside protected trees throughout Chapter 12's permit sections.
Violations & Fines
Because "protected tree" status is what triggers Chapter 12's permit requirements, removing, damaging or significantly pruning a tree that meets the Section 4-12.02(n) definition without the required permit is a misdemeanor under Section 4-12.14(a), punishable by up to a $1,000.00 fine, up to six months in county jail, or both, plus the chapter's replacement requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a eucalyptus tree protected under Pacifica's tree ordinance?
What size tree needs a permit before removal in Pacifica?
Does a grove of small trees get any protection?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Pacifica
California rules heatmap·Compare Pacifica to another location·View the California tree protection overview
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Protected Tree Species in Nearby Cities
How other cities in San Mateo County handle protected tree species.