How to apply for a tree removal permit in San Bernardino, California

A 5-step walkthrough drawn from San Bernardino'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

    Regulated trees, desert native plants, and regulated riparian plants within county road ROW.

  2. 2

    Determine who must apply

    Permit applicants are typically the property owner or an authorized agent — confirm directly with San Bernardino before filing.

  3. 3

    Prepare your assessment report

    Prepare a tree assessment report covering tree species, condition, defects, and proposed action. Reports are commonly authored by an ISA Certified Arborist — verify the credential requirement with San Bernardino.

  4. 4

    Submit to the permitting department

    Submit your application and assessment report to Department of Public Works. Permit fee: $0.00. Reference the full ordinance at https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/sanbernardino/latest/sanberncty_ca/0-0-0-175841.

    View the full San Bernardino ordinance

  5. 5

    Plan for replacement obligations

    If your permit is approved, San Bernardino may require replacement plantings or an in-lieu fee — confirm replacement obligations with the permitting office before removal.

Where to file

Department of Public Works

Other California permit walkthroughs

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Need an arborist report for your San Bernardino permit?

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

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