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

A 5-step walkthrough drawn from Hayward'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. Protected Tree: any tree 6+ inches DBH on vacant/underdeveloped lots and developed lots subject to new development or discretionary review. Native oaks, California Sycamore, and Big Leaf Maple protected at 4+ inches DBH. Ordinance overhauled August 2025 to broaden protection. Heritage / landmark designation: Heritage Trees: any tree 24+ inches DBH regardless of species, or trees designated by City Council for historical/cultural significance.

  2. 2

    Determine who must apply

    Eligible applicants in Hayward: 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, construction impact analysis, replacement/mitigation plan. Required certifications: ISA Certified Arborist.

  4. 4

    Submit to the permitting department

    Submit your application and assessment report to Development Services Department. Typical processing time: 4-8 weeks. Reference the full ordinance at https://www.hayward-ca.gov/your-government/departments/development-services/planning-division/tree-preservation.

    View the full Hayward ordinance

  5. 5

    Plan for replacement obligations

    Replacement ratio: 1:1 for protected trees; 2:1 for heritage trees; caliper-inch mitigation option for large trees. 15-gallon minimum for 1:1 replacement; 24-inch box minimum for heritage tree replacement. In-lieu fees to the Tree Mitigation Fund when on-site replanting is infeasible.

Where to file

Development Services Department

Other California permit walkthroughs

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

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

Compare with nearby cities

Need an arborist report for your Hayward permit?

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

Start a TRAQ assessment