A Tree Pruning or Tree Removal Permit is required to prune or remove any public tree and certain private trees. Public Trees are those that occur on any County owned land (parks, building grounds, etc.) and/or within Right-of-Way situations. Privately owned trees also require a tree permit in accordance with Zoning Code Regulations and the County's Tree Preservation and Protection Ordinance.

Typical examples requiring a Tree Permit include:

• Any trees that are located within parking lots and/or the landscaped areas that surround commercial buildings or apartment complexes.
• Native oak trees (Heritage Trees) occurring anywhere, including on private residential properties.
• Public trees adjacent to roadways (Street Trees) within the County Right-of-Way or on any County land/parkway.
• Certain tree species that are especially prominent and stately are also considered as "Landmark" trees and receive special consideration for preservation during the Conditional Use Permit/Development Plan Review process through the Planning Department.

Contact Information

Landscape Design and Tree Section
Phone: 916-874-5278 
Fax: 916-874-1677
Email:  trees@saccounty.net