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

Pleasanton's tree-removal permit system lives in Municipal Code Chapter 17.16 (Tree Preservation), comprehensively amended by Ordinance No. 2288 (adopted December 17, 2024). Section 17.16.010 prohibits removing or 'effectively removing' any Protected Tree without a permit. A Protected Tree is a listed native species (e.g., Coast Live Oak, Valley Oak, California Sycamore, California Buckeye, California Bay Laurel, Big Leaf Maple) with a 37-inch trunk circumference measured 4.5 feet above grade, or a non-native species at 55 inches; multi-trunk trees are measured below the split. To apply (Section 17.16.020), the property owner submits the city's Application for Protected Tree Removal listing the number, species, size, and location of trees and the reason for removal, and agrees to let the Director inspect. The Director may approve removal where the tree is dead/dying/diseased, dangerous, damaging utilities or structures, must be removed for reasonable development (home expansion, ADU, pool), would not harm urban-forest goals, or poses a fire risk in a high/very-high fire severity zone. Litter, pollen allergies, surface roots, and general dislike are not valid reasons. Approved removals usually require a 1:1 replacement with a 15-gallon climate-appropriate tree. A denial may be appealed (signed, in writing) to the City Clerk within 20 days; the Protected Tree Board of Appeals (two planning commissioners and one parks/recreation commissioner) hears it within 60 days, and its decision is final. Trees required by a prior condition of approval need a Planning Division modification instead. Emergency removals are allowed without a prior permit but must be reported to the Director promptly. Processing typically takes about 1 to 2 weeks, longer if an arborist report is needed.