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

Placer County's tree-protection permitting lives in the Tree Preservation Ordinance, codified at Placer County Code Section 19.50 (Article 19.50, Woodland Conservation). The ordinance is intended to preserve and protect native oak and other tree species while still allowing fuel reduction and fire prevention. A protected tree is generally most native trees that are six inches diameter at breast height (DBH) or greater, or multi-trunk native trees with an aggregate diameter of ten inches DBH or greater. For single-family residential lots and projects not tied to another discretionary permit, the owner obtains a Minor Tree Permit from the Planning Services Division, applying at least 30 days before the planned removal. The application must include a site plan locating all protected trees within 50 feet of the development activity, with each tree's base and drip-line shown, and an arborist's report may be required where removal is significant or to compute mitigation fees. Larger removals tied to discretionary development are reviewed under the broader Woodland Conservation provisions, which can require avoidance, replacement planting, or in-lieu mitigation fees based on the trees removed. Certain removals are exempt, and an owner may request a permit specifically to confirm exempt status before cutting. Applications go through the CDRA in Auburn or the Tahoe office.