Mendocino County, CA Tree Protection: Tree Removal Permits (2026)

Mendocino County does not operate a citywide-style 'protected tree' permit program for ordinary inland properties, but several permit pathways protect trees. In the Coastal Zone, removing 'major vegetation' is 'development' that requires a Coastal Development Permit under the Coastal Zoning Code (Sec. 20.532.010, applicability; Sec. 20.308.035(D), definition of development). 'Major Vegetation, Removal or Harvesting' (Sec. 20.308.080) means removing more than 15 trees or 10 percent of the parcel's trees (whichever is less) at 12-inch diameter / 38-inch circumference measured 4.5 feet above ground, or clearing within 6,000 square feet of canopy; the Planning Director may also designate smaller removals as 'major' where significant impacts are possible. Coastal exemptions exist for routine repair/maintenance, certain single-family-residence improvements, and disaster replacement (Sec. 20.532.020), and the definition of development excludes timber operations under an approved Timber Harvesting Plan. Commercial timber harvest is governed by the state Z'berg-Nejedly Forest Practice Act and requires a CAL FIRE-approved THP (or a conversion exemption for under 3 acres). In designated Highly Scenic Areas (Sec. 20.504.015) the County can condition permits to require tree thinning so trees do not obstruct ocean views and to prohibit removing tree masses that define a ridgeline. Sensitive native stands are further protected as ESHA under Chapter 20.496.