Sacramento, CA Tree Protection: Protected Tree Species (2026)
Key Facts
- Protected species
- Valley Oak, Blue Oak, Interior Live Oak, Coast Live Oak, Buckeye, Sycamore
- Size threshold
- 12 inches DSH (diameter at standard height)
- Location
- Applies on private property
- DSH formula
- Circumference divided by 3.14
- Effect
- Full Chapter 12.56 tree permit protections apply
Summary
Six native species get automatic protection in Sacramento regardless of council designation. City Code § 12.56.020 covers any Valley Oak, Blue Oak, Interior Live Oak, Coast Live Oak, California Buckeye, or California Sycamore on private property once it reaches 12 inches in diameter at standard height.
"Private protected tree" means: ... B. Any native Valley Oak (Quercus lobata), Blue Oak (Quercus douglasii), Interior Live Oak (Quercus wislizenii), Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia), California Buckeye (Aesculus californica), or California Sycamore (Platanus racemosa), that has a DSH of twelve (12) inches or more, and is located on private property;
Full Breakdown
Sacramento's tree ordinance protects certain native species by definition, not just by discretionary council action. 14 under the same section, with special rules for trees that branch below that height or share a common root system. 080. The species-specific threshold (12 inches) is notably lower than the general size-based categories that apply to other species, 24 inches on undeveloped lots or lots without a house, and 32 inches on lots with a single-unit or duplex dwelling, reflecting the city's particular interest in preserving these Central Valley native oaks, buckeye, and sycamore.
Violations & Fines
Removing, topping, or otherwise performing regulated work on a qualifying native oak, buckeye, or sycamore of 12-inch DSH or more without a tree permit is a public nuisance under § 12.56.090(B), carrying civil penalties of $250 to $25,000 per day of violation and possible criminal or administrative enforcement under Chapter 1.28.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which native trees are automatically protected in Sacramento?
How is a tree's protected size measured in Sacramento?
Why is the size threshold lower for oaks and sycamores than other trees?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Sacramento
California rules heatmap·Compare Sacramento to another location·View the California tree protection overview
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Protected Tree Species in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Sacramento County handle protected tree species.