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

A 5-step walkthrough drawn from Cupertino'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 10" DBH (diameter at breast height) are regulated. Protected Tree Ordinance regulates 12 specific species (6 native oaks plus Big Leaf Maple, Deodar Cedar, Monterey Pine, California Buckeye, Western Sycamore, Blue Atlas Cedar) at 10+ inches DBH. Species-based rather than general size-based protection. Heritage Trees designated regardless of size. Heritage / landmark designation: Heritage Trees designated by Council, Planning Commission, or Director based on exceptional size, age, species rarity, historical association, or community value.

  2. 2

    Determine who must apply

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

  3. 3

    Prepare your assessment report

    Your assessment report must include: Species identification, DBH, health and structural assessment, justification for removal, site plan, photo documentation, 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/Cupertino/html/Cupertino14/Cupertino1418.html.

    View the full Cupertino ordinance

  5. 5

    Plan for replacement obligations

    Replacement ratio: 1:1 to 3:1 depending on tree size and significance; inch-for-inch mitigation for Heritage Trees. Replacement from approved species list, 15-gallon or 24-inch box minimum. In-lieu fees to the Tree Preservation Fund when on-site replanting is infeasible.

Where to file

Community Development Department

(408) 777-3308

Other California permit walkthroughs

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

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

Compare with nearby cities

Need an arborist report for your Cupertino permit?

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

Start a TRAQ assessment