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

A 5-step walkthrough drawn from Campbell'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

    Trees at or above 12" DBH (diameter at breast height) are regulated. Protected Tree: any tree with 38-inch circumference (~12 inches diameter) or greater at 4.5 feet above grade; all trees on public property and street trees regardless of size; Heritage/Significant Trees designated by Council. Heritage / landmark designation: Significant/Heritage 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 Campbell: Property owner or authorized agent with ISA Certified 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 Community Development Department. Typical processing time: 4-6 weeks. Reference the full ordinance at https://www.codepublishing.com/CA/Campbell/html/Campbell21/Campbell2132.html.

    View the full Campbell ordinance

  5. 5

    Plan for replacement obligations

    Replacement ratio: 1:1 minimum; 2:1 or higher for Heritage/Significant Trees. 15-gallon or 24-inch box replacement from approved species list. In-lieu fees to the Tree Preservation Fund when on-site replanting is infeasible.

Where to file

Community Development Department

(408) 866-2140

Other California permit walkthroughs

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

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

Compare with nearby cities

Need an arborist report for your Campbell permit?

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

Start a TRAQ assessment