San Bernardino County, CA Tree Protection: Protected Tree Species (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing chapter
- County Code § 88.01.010 et seq.
- Joshua trees
- all sizes regulated, § 88.01.060(c)(4)
- Native trees
- 6-inch stem diameter, countywide
- Riparian buffer
- 200 feet of stream bank
- Fine
- $500-$1,000 or 6 months jail
Summary
Joshua trees, mesquites, desert ironwood, palo verde and other listed desert native plants can't be removed on unincorporated land without a county Tree or Plant Removal Permit.
The following desert native plants...shall not be removed except under a Tree or Plant Removal Permit... (2) All species of the family Agavaceae (century plants, nolinas, yuccas). (3) Creosote Rings, ten feet or greater in diameter. (4) All Joshua trees. (5) Any part of the following species, whether living or dead: (A) Olneya tesota (desert ironwood)... (C) All species of the genus Cercidium (palos verdes).
Full Breakdown
County Code § 88.01.060 names specific desert species, all Joshua trees, all Agavaceae (yuccas, nolinas, century plants), mesquites, desert ironwood, palo verde, smoketree over 2 inches, and creosote rings 10 feet or wider, that cannot be cut, dug up, or harvested on private or public land in the Desert Region without a permit under § 88.01.050. Native trees countywide (6-inch stem) and riparian vegetation within 200 feet of a stream get the same permit requirement under §§ 88.01.070 and 88.01.080. Illegal removal is a misdemeanor under § 88.01.050(j).
Violations & Fines
Misdemeanor, $500-$1,000 fine or up to 6 months in jail per plant removed, plus a court-ordered replacement/revegetation program and permit revocation for a year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I remove a Joshua tree on my own desert lot?
Does a small lot exempt me?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Bernardino County
California rules heatmap·Compare San Bernardino County to another location·View the California tree protection overview
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