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

Stockton imposes mitigation on three tracks: (1) Heritage trees — under SMC 16.130, except for emergency removal, any heritage oak removed must be replaced on a three-for-one basis at the Director's discretion, with replacement size based on the trunk size of the tree removed but never smaller than 15-gallon container stock. Replacements must be planted on the same parcel if possible; otherwise the Director designates a City park or other public location. (2) Street trees — under SMC Chapter 12.64 / 16.162, the permit to remove a street tree typically conditions removal on replacement with a species from the City's Master Tree List, sized to match the tree wells or park-strip width. Fines collected for unpermitted street tree removals are statutorily dedicated to purchasing and planting replacement trees. (3) Development projects — under SMC Chapter 16.56 (Landscaping Standards), new development and substantial site improvements must meet minimum landscaping and tree planting requirements as part of site plan approval, including parking-lot shade trees and street frontage trees.