Cupertino's Protected Trees ordinance (Municipal Code Chapter 14.18) requires a tree removal permit before removing any heritage or specimen tree. Specimen removals go to the Community Development Director, heritage removals to the Planning Commission, and replacement trees are usually required.
Municipal Code Chapter 14.18 makes it unlawful to remove a protected tree without first obtaining a tree removal permit (Sections 14.18.030, 14.18.140). An application is filed with the Community Development Department and must include a written reason, photographs, a tree survey and replanting plan, owner (and HOA) signatures, and an ISA-certified arborist report when required (Section 14.18.160). The Director inspects within fourteen days and reviews specimen and general removals; heritage-tree removals go to the Planning Commission. A permit is granted only on findings such as disease, hazard, or that the tree prevents reasonable use (Section 14.18.180), and replacement trees (Table A) or an in-lieu fee may be required. Emergency and dead-tree removals need a retroactive permit within five days.
Removing a protected tree without a valid permit is an infraction under Section 14.18.240 (per Chapter 1.12). Anyone who removes one first must file a retroactive permit and pay the fee, and replacement trees or an in-lieu fee may be
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