Fresno requires permits for removal of street trees and trees in the public right-of-way under FMC Chapter 13, Article 4 (Urban Forestry). The City Arborist oversees tree management on public property. Removal of private trees generally does not require a City permit unless the tree is a designated heritage or landmark tree. However, removal during active development requires compliance with the Development Code's landscaping provisions.
The Public Works Department manages street trees and processes removal requests. Street tree removal is generally approved only when the tree is dead, diseased, hazardous, or causing significant infrastructure damage. Replacement planting may be required. For new development projects, the Development Code requires tree preservation plans and mitigation for significant trees removed during construction. The City's Urban Forestry program plants thousands of trees annually to increase Fresno's urban canopy, which is critical for mitigating the Central Valley's extreme summer heat.
Unauthorized removal of street trees can result in fines equal to the appraised value of the tree plus replanting costs. Damage to public trees during construction may result in contractor penalties.
Fresno, CA
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Fresno, CA
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Fresno, CA
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Fresno, CA
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Fresno, CA
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Fresno, CA
Fresno enforces the California Fire Code (CFC) as adopted in FMC Chapter 10, Article 5 (Fire Prevention). Under CFC §308.1.4 (the California amended version ...
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