Sacramento's strong tree ordinance under Title 12 Chapter 12.56 protects 'City Trees' (street trees) and 'Heritage Trees' on private property — including native oaks, sycamores, and large specimens — requiring permits before pruning beyond 10% or removal.
Sacramento, designated 'Tree City USA,' enforces one of California's strongest urban tree ordinances. Title 12 Chapter 12.56 protects two categories: 'City Trees' in the public right-of-way (any size, any species) and 'Heritage Trees' on private property. Heritage status applies to native species — valley oaks (Quercus lobata), interior live oaks, blue oaks, California sycamores — at any size, plus other species over 32-inch diameter at standard height. Permits from the Department of Public Works Urban Forestry are required for pruning more than 10% of canopy or any removal. Mitigation planting or in-lieu fees apply.
Unpermitted heritage tree removal triggers fines up to $25,000 per tree under Sacramento's enhanced penalty schedule, plus mandatory replacement and possible criminal misdemeanor charges for repeat or commercial offenders.
See how Sacramento's protected tree species rules stack up against other locations.
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