Fairfield, CA Tree Protection: Tree Replacement Requirements (2026)

Fairfield's Tree Conservation Ordinance (Section 25.36) requires that any authorized removal of a protected tree be mitigated by planting replacement trees with combined caliper equal to the diameter of the removed tree, measured at breast height (4.5 feet above grade). For example, removing a single protected tree with a 12-inch diameter typically requires planting four 3-inch caliper replacement trees, or six 2-inch caliper trees - so long as the total replacement caliper equals or exceeds 12 inches. When suitable replanting space is not available on the project parcel, the city may require off-site planting, payment into a tree-replacement fund, or other in-lieu mitigation. Replacement trees should generally be native or climate-appropriate species and may need to be selected from a city-approved list. When a protected tree is removed without authorization, the mitigation ratio increases from 1:1 to 3:1 - three inches of replacement caliper for every inch of removed diameter - plus administrative citations and any related civil cost recovery. Replanting must be maintained for a minimum establishment period (commonly three years), and failed replacement trees must be replaced again at the owner's cost.