How to apply for a tree removal permit in Anaheim, California

A 5-step walkthrough drawn from Anaheim's tree-protection ordinance. For the underlying DBH thresholds, protected-species list, and full fee schedule, see the city ordinance page.

Expected processing time: 4-6 weeks. Plan removal timing accordingly — emergency-tree provisions may differ.

  1. 1

    Determine if your tree is regulated

    All street trees, parkway trees, and trees on public property are protected regardless of size. Development-related tree preservation applies to boundary trees and designated landscape trees per the Zoning Code. Heritage / landmark designation: Heritage/Landmark Trees designated by City Council for exceptional size, age, species rarity, historical association, or community value.

  2. 2

    Determine who must apply

    Eligible applicants in Anaheim: Property owner, adjacent property owner (for parkway trees), or authorized agent with arborist report.

  3. 3

    Prepare your assessment report

    Your assessment report must include: Tree inventory with species, DBH, canopy dripline, condition/health assessment, retention/removal status, replacement plan. Required certifications: ISA Certified Arborist.

  4. 4

    Submit to the permitting department

    Submit your application and assessment report to Public Works Department. Typical processing time: 4-6 weeks. Reference the full ordinance at https://library.municode.com/ca/anaheim/codes/code_of_ordinances.

    View the full Anaheim ordinance

  5. 5

    Plan for replacement obligations

    Replacement ratio: 1:1 minimum for street/parkway trees; development mitigation per approved landscape plan. Replacement from approved Street Tree List; 15-gallon or 24-inch box minimum depending on location. In-lieu fees to the Urban Forestry Fund when on-site replanting is infeasible.

Where to file

Public Works Department

Other California permit walkthroughs

See California replacement obligations compared — how Anaheim's replacement ratio ranks against the rest of the state.

See California heritage criteria compared — how Anaheim's designation rules stack against the rest of the state.

Compare with nearby cities

Need an arborist report for your Anaheim permit?

Capture an ISA TRAQ Level 1, 2, or 3 assessment in the field and export a municipality-ready PDF that fits Anaheim's required report sections. Free, no account required.

Start a TRAQ assessment