In general, a tree permit is required if a native oak tree, landmark tree, or a protected street tree is present on a site which will be developed, redeveloped, or if improvements such as swimming pools, building additions, accessory structures, or retaining walls are added to an already developed site. If protected trees exist on a site where work will disturb the natural topography, even if the activity is not directly under or near the tree, a permit is likely to be required. A tree permit is required when performing any mechanical support systems (cabling, bracing, bolting, guying and/or propping) on a protected tree.
Removal of protected trees, including dead trees, requires a tree permit. Any pruning that substantially modifies the shape of the tree, such as removal of major branches or trunks of multiple trunk trees, will require a tree permit. Exceptions to this rule are made for emergency situations and for utility companies engaging in routine maintenance of overhead wires.
The removal of dead branches, or branches less than 2 inches in diameter on a protected tree does not require a tree permit. There is no topping, no heading cuts, no flush cuts, no stub cuts, rip cuts, no use of caff hooks (on trees to remain) and no more than 25% of canopy to be removed in any 1-year period.
Are there fees associated with tree removal for building?
The Tree Preservation Ordinance requires that the removal of protected trees be mitigated. Mitigation can be in the form of replacement plantings and/or the payment of in-lieu fees. Replacement plantings are usually required to be of the same species as the trees that were removed. In-lieu fees are based on the location of the tree on the lot and the diameter of the trunk and are set by the City Council. In-lieu fees are deposited in a special fund restricted to new tree planting, tree replacement, or to obtain or enhance other community forest assets.