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

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

  1. 1

    Determine if your tree is regulated

    Trees at or above 17.5" DBH (diameter at breast height) are regulated. Heritage trees: 55+ inches circumference (~17.5 inches dia) at 4.5 feet, or 35+ feet height. Heritage / landmark designation: Any tree meeting 55 inch circumference or 35 foot height threshold.

  2. 2

    Determine who must apply

    Eligible applicants in Pleasanton: Property owner or authorized agent with arborist report.

  3. 3

    Prepare your assessment report

    Your assessment report must include: Species identification, DBH/circumference and height (55-inch circumference or 35-foot height heritage threshold), health and structural assessment, justification for removal, photo documentation, replacement plan from approved Pleasanton native and adapted species list. Required certifications: ISA Certified Arborist; Heritage Tree determinations measured at the 55-inch circumference or 35-foot height threshold.

  4. 4

    Submit to the permitting department

    Submit your application and assessment report to Community Development Department.

  5. 5

    Plan for replacement obligations

    Replacement ratio: 1:1 minimum for heritage tree removal; 24-inch box replacement minimum from approved species list. 24-inch box replacement trees from the approved Pleasanton native and adapted species list; in-lieu fees to the Heritage Tree Preservation Fund accepted when on-site replanting is infeasible.

Where to file

Community Development Department

Other California permit walkthroughs

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

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

Compare with nearby cities

Need an arborist report for your Pleasanton permit?

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

Start a TRAQ assessment