Tuolumne County Ordinance Code Chapter 9.24 protects native oak trees and heritage trees from premature removal. Adopted in 2008 as Ordinance 2903, the law requires permits for removal of native oaks and establishes mitigation requirements including replacement planting. Heritage trees receive the highest level of protection and must be retained to the greatest extent feasible.
Tuolumne County adopted Ordinance 2903 on April 1, 2008, adding Chapter 9.24 to the County Ordinance Code to discourage premature removal of native oak trees. The ordinance establishes procedures for oak tree removal permits and requires mitigation for approved removals. Heritage trees, defined by their size, age, or historical significance, are intended to be retained to the greatest extent feasible as historic legacies and scenic resources. The ordinance applies to development projects and individual property owners seeking to remove native oaks. Applicants must submit a tree removal application and may be required to provide an arborist report. Mitigation typically includes replacement planting at a specified ratio, or payment into a tree mitigation fund when on-site replacement is not feasible. The Community Development Department reviews applications and the Board of Supervisors may hear appeals.
Unauthorized removal of protected oak trees or heritage trees may result in penalties including fines, required replacement planting at an enhanced ratio, and potential criminal prosecution. Stop-work orders may be issued for development projects that damage protected trees.
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