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

A 5-step walkthrough drawn from Concord'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 6" DBH (diameter at breast height) are regulated. Protected Tree: any tree 6+ inches DBH within the structural setback of creeks or streams, any native oak 6+ inches DBH city-wide, and heritage trees designated by Council. Street trees on public property are protected regardless of size. Heritage / landmark designation: Heritage Trees designated by Council for exceptional size, age, species rarity, historical significance, or community value; automatic designation for riparian trees meeting threshold in creek/stream corridors.

  2. 2

    Determine who must apply

    Eligible applicants in Concord: Property owner or authorized agent with ISA Certified Arborist report.

  3. 3

    Prepare your assessment report

    Your assessment report must include: Tree inventory, species, DBH, canopy dripline, condition/health assessment, impact analysis, tree protection measures, 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.cityofconcord.org/421/Tree-Preservation.

    View the full Concord ordinance

  5. 5

    Plan for replacement obligations

    Replacement ratio: 1:1 minimum; 2:1 for heritage trees or native oaks. 15-gallon minimum replacement from approved native species list. In-lieu fees to the Tree Preservation Fund when on-site replanting is infeasible.

Where to file

Community Development Department

Other California permit walkthroughs

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

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

Compare with nearby cities

Need an arborist report for your Concord permit?

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

Start a TRAQ assessment