Lodi, CA Tree Protection: Tree Removal Permits (2026)

Per the City of Lodi Public Works Tree Policy (Streets-4, Rev. 10/5/16, approved by Council Resolution 2016-185), 'Trees which are 50 percent or more within the public right-of-way shall be considered City trees,' measured at the trunk at ground surface. Property owners and City personnel may not remove or alter any City tree unless one of the listed criteria is met or special Council approval is obtained. With an encroachment permit issued by Public Works, a City tree may be removed at the owner's expense if (1) it bears fruit causing a nuisance, (2) removal is needed to widen or construct a driveway, (3) less than 50% of the tree is within the ROW, or (4) it is part of an approved development without curbs and gutters. The City removes City trees at its own expense when the tree is dead, diseased beyond cure, hazardous, conflicts with sidewalk replacement, is needed for a City improvement project, or causes repeated damage to utilities or curb/gutter/sidewalk. Encroachment permit fee is $125 for sidewalk/driveway-category work per Public Works (221 W Pine St). Trees fully on private property are NOT subject to a removal permit, though hazardous trees may be ordered removed by the Public Works Director under abatement authority.