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

A 5-step walkthrough drawn from Saratoga'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 3.2" DBH (diameter at breast height) are regulated. Trees with 10+ inches circumference (~3.2 inches dia) or larger are regulated. Heritage / landmark designation: Heritage Trees designated by City Council under Saratoga Municipal Code Article 15-50 for exceptional size, age, species rarity, historical association, or community value; any tree with 10-inch or greater circumference (~3.2 inches diameter) automatically subject to permit review. Native oaks and trees on hillside parcels receive enhanced heritage-level scrutiny.

  2. 2

    Determine who must apply

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

  3. 3

    Prepare your assessment report

    Your assessment report must include: Species identification, DBH/circumference (10-inch circumference threshold), health and structural assessment, justification for removal, photo documentation, replacement plan from approved native species list emphasizing oaks and hillside-adapted species; hillside parcels and native oaks require enhanced Heritage Tree review materials. Required certifications: ISA Certified Arborist; hillside-parcel and native-oak applications require enhanced Heritage Tree review materials per SMC Article 15-50.

  4. 4

    Submit to the permitting department

    Submit your application and assessment report to Community Development Department. Reference the full ordinance at https://library.municode.com/ca/saratoga/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=CH15ZORE_ART15-50TRRE.

    View the full Saratoga ordinance

  5. 5

    Plan for replacement obligations

    Replacement ratio: 1:1 inch-for-inch replacement for protected tree removal under SMC Article 15-50; tree appraisal valuation accepted in lieu of on-site replanting. 15-gallon to 24-inch box replacement trees from the approved native species list emphasizing oaks and hillside-adapted species; tree appraisal valuation deposit to the Tree Preservation Fund accepted when on-site replanting is infeasible.

Where to file

Community Development Department

(408) 868-1276

Other California permit walkthroughs

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

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

Compare with nearby cities

Need an arborist report for your Saratoga permit?

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

Start a TRAQ assessment