San Diego Tree Removal Permit & Ordinance Guide
San Diego County, California
Protected Tree Definition
Public trees with 8+ inch caliper at 4 feet. Also Landmark, Heritage, Parkway Resource, Preservation Grove, and Street Trees.
Heritage / Landmark Trees
Heritage/Landmark Trees designated for historical, ecological, or community significance.
Permit Requirements
No permits unless clear safety hazard or City Urban Forester determines protection not appropriate after arborist report and Advisory Board review.
Who can apply: Property owner, adjacent property owner (for parkway trees), or authorized agent with ISA Certified Arborist report
Required Report Sections
Species identification, DBH/caliper (8+ inch threshold for public trees), health and structural assessment, justification for removal, photo documentation, replacement plan, ISA Certified Arborist findings; Landmark/Heritage tree removal additionally requires Urban Forestry Advisory Board review materials
Replacement Requirements
100% of assessed tree value
Applicant pays 100% assessed value. 300% assessed value fine for unauthorized removal.
Fees & Fines
Processing Time
6-12 weeks
Required Certifications
ISA Certified Arborist
Municipal Code
Council Policy 900-19
View full ordinanceContact
Development Services - Urban Forestry
(619) 236-5500
Nearby Cities in San Diego 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 San Diego before submitting permits or reports.
Ready to apply? How to apply for a permit in San Diego →
See California replacement obligations compared: How San Diego's replacement ratio ranks in California →
See California heritage criteria compared: How San Diego's heritage designation ranks in California →
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