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

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

Expected processing time: 2-3 weeks. Plan removal timing accordingly — emergency-tree provisions may differ.

  1. 1

    Determine if your tree is regulated

    Trees in the public right-of-way, parking lot trees and boundary trees required by the Zoning Ordinance, and eucalyptus windrows designated for preservation. Private residential yard trees generally not regulated outside of development review. Heritage / landmark designation: Designated windrow trees and landmark trees identified through the General Plan/Open Space element receive heritage-level protection.

  2. 2

    Determine who must apply

    Eligible applicants in Irvine: Property owner, HOA, or authorized agent with arborist assessment.

  3. 3

    Prepare your assessment report

    Your assessment report must include: Species identification, DBH, condition/health assessment, justification for removal, replacement plan, site plan showing tree location. Required certifications: ISA Certified Arborist.

  4. 4

    Submit to the permitting department

    Submit your application and assessment report to Planning Counter. Typical processing time: 2-3 weeks. Reference the full ordinance at https://cityofirvine.org/building-permits-and-inspections/tree-removal-permits.

    View the full Irvine ordinance

  5. 5

    Plan for replacement obligations

    Replacement ratio: 1:1 minimum; windrow trees replaced in-kind per approved landscape plan. Replacement trees must match the approved landscape palette. 15-gallon or 24-inch box minimum depending on location.

Where to file

Planning Counter

(949) 724-6308

planning@cityofirvine.org

Other California permit walkthroughs

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

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

Compare with nearby cities

Need an arborist report for your Irvine permit?

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

Start a TRAQ assessment