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

Tree removal permits in Redlands center on the city's public-tree program rather than a blanket private-tree permit. Under Municipal Code Chapter 12.52, 'Trees and Tree Protection Along Streets and in Public Places,' a Public Tree Encroachment Permit is required to trim, plant, or remove any tree located in a city easement or other public place. Permits are required for work on public trees unless specifically exempt under the chapter, and all work must comply with International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) standards per Section 12.52.140. The chapter defines and protects Heritage Trees and Landmark Trees, and extends Heritage-level protection to historic groves of a particular species in a specific area - for instance, the palm trees along Cajon Street. For pending removals of significant or historic trees, the city obtains a second opinion from an independent ISA Certified Arborist. The city waives permit fees for voluntary trimming, planting, or removal of public trees when a resident hires a certified contractor, subject to Facilities and Community Services Department approval; applicants also receive guidelines for protecting nesting birds. Private trees are reached by the city's authority only so far as they directly affect or damage public property, public safety, or public trees (Municipal Code Section 12.42.020 addresses custody and protection of city trees). Applications are submitted to the Facilities and Community Services Department at 35 Cajon Street, Suite 222. Property owners should also be mindful of state and federal nesting-bird protections that apply during breeding season.