Palo Alto Tree Removal Permit & Ordinance Guide
Santa Clara County, California
Protected Tree Definition
Species-specific DBH: 11.5 inches for natives (oaks, maples, cedars), 18 inches for Coast Redwoods, 15 inches for all others. All street trees protected.
Protected Species
Heritage / Landmark Trees
Heritage trees designated by City Council for exceptional significance.
Permit Requirements
Protected Tree Removal Permit from Urban Forestry. Tree and Landscape Technical Manual Section 3.02 governs replacement.
Who can apply: Property owner with arborist report
Required Report Sections
Tree inventory, species and DBH, health assessment, impact analysis, replacement plan per Technical Manual, site plan
Replacement Requirements
Per Table 3-1 in Technical Manual Section 3.02
All trees 4+ inches DBH subject to replacement. In-lieu fees per 24-inch box tree.
Fees & Fines
- Permit fee
- $250.00
- Max fine/tree
- $25,000.00
Processing Time
4-8 weeks
Required Certifications
ISA Certified Arborist
Municipal Code
PAMC Chapter 8.10
View full ordinanceContact
Public Works - Urban Forestry Section
(650) 496-5953
urbanforestry@cityofpaloalto.orgNearby Cities in Santa Clara County
Other California cities
Compare with nearby cities
Data last verified: April 2026. This information is provided as a reference. Always verify requirements directly with Palo Alto before submitting permits or reports.
Ready to apply? How to apply for a permit in Palo Alto →
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See California replacement obligations compared: How Palo Alto's replacement ratio ranks in California →
See California heritage criteria compared: How Palo Alto's heritage designation ranks in California →
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