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

Temecula Municipal Code Chapter 8.48 (Heritage Tree Ordinance) and TMC Title 17 protect native trees, with specific protection for native coast live oak (Quercus agrifolia), Engelmann oak (Quercus engelmannii), valley oak (Quercus lobata), and California sycamore. Any tree meeting protected criteria — typically 6-inch diameter at breast height (DBH) for oaks and 12-inch DBH for other natives — requires a Heritage Tree Removal Permit before removal, regardless of whether the tree is dead, dying, or healthy. Applications are filed with the Planning Department and require: site plan showing tree location, certified arborist report assessing health and removal justification, photographs, and a replacement plan. Approval criteria include hazard, disease, dead status, or unavoidable conflict with approved development. Approved removals trigger replacement at typically 3:1 ratio with 24-inch box natives or in-lieu fees to the city's tree fund. Trees within MSHCP (Multi-Species Habitat Conservation Plan) conservation areas, riparian zones along Temecula Creek, Murrieta Creek, and Santa Gertrudis Creek, and slopes greater than 25% receive heightened review. Unauthorized removal of a heritage tree is a misdemeanor with fines up to $5,000 per tree plus restoration costs.