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

Tree replacement in Redding flows from RMC Chapter 18.45 (Tree Management) as the conditioning mechanism attached to tree-removal permits. The ordinance frames mitigation as the designation of preserved trees and/or the planting of new trees, with specific ratios and species typically established by the Development Services - Planning Division based on the size, species, and significance of the removed tree, the development context, and the City's 2024 Comprehensive Tree Plan urban-forest goals. Replacement trees are generally drawn from an approved species palette that emphasizes climate-adapted, drought-tolerant, and (where feasible) California native species consistent with RMC Chapter 18.47 (Landscape Standards) and the City's MWELO-aligned Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance. Discretionary entitlements processed under §18.45.070 may impose enhanced replacement ratios proportional to the diameter of removed trees (commonly scaling from 1:1 for smaller trees to 3:1 or higher for mature specimens). Cash-in-lieu contributions to a City tree fund may be accepted where on-site planting is infeasible — confirm current policy with Development Services. Street-tree replacement is handled separately by Public Works under RMC Title 13, Chapter 13.40, typically at 1:1 for permitted removals from the public right-of-way. Survival/maintenance bonds and replacement-tree warranty periods are commonly imposed as conditions of approval. The City's 2023 Tree Management Ordinance Update Committee recommended formalizing replacement-ratio policy in the ordinance text.