How to apply for a tree removal permit in Elk Grove, California

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

Expected processing time: 4-8 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. Native Tree: any native oak with 6+ inch DSH (single trunk) or 10+ inch aggregate DSH (multi-trunk) at 4.5 feet. Heritage Trees: any tree designated by City Council, or any native oak 30+ inches DSH. Heritage / landmark designation: Heritage Trees: any tree designated by City Council for size, age, historical significance, or community value; automatic designation for native oaks 30+ inches DSH.

  2. 2

    Determine who must apply

    Eligible applicants in Elk Grove: 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, DSH, canopy dripline, health/condition, impact analysis, tree protection measures, mitigation plan. Required certifications: ISA Certified Arborist.

  4. 4

    Submit to the permitting department

    Submit your application and assessment report to Development Services - Planning. Typical processing time: 4-8 weeks. Reference the full ordinance at https://www.codepublishing.com/CA/ElkGrove/html/ElkGrove19/ElkGrove1912.html.

    View the full Elk Grove ordinance

  5. 5

    Plan for replacement obligations

    Replacement ratio: Inch-for-inch replacement up to a cap; 3:1 count-based for heritage native oaks. On-site replacement with 15-gallon or 24-inch box trees from approved native species list. In-lieu fees to the Tree Preservation Fund ($300-$750 per inch DSH removed) when on-site replanting is infeasible.

Where to file

Development Services - Planning

Other California permit walkthroughs

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

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

Compare with nearby cities

Need an arborist report for your Elk Grove permit?

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

Start a TRAQ assessment