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

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

Expected processing time: 2-4 weeks (10-day public notice period for heritage trees). Plan removal timing accordingly — emergency-tree provisions may differ.

  1. 1

    Determine if your tree is regulated

    Heritage Oak trees protected regardless of location or condition. Street trees require permit for removal or relocation. Heritage / landmark designation: Heritage Oak trees designated under Municipal Code Chapter 16.130.

  2. 2

    Determine who must apply

    Eligible applicants in Stockton: Property owner or utility company with City franchise.

  3. 3

    Prepare your assessment report

    Your assessment report must include: Species identification (with Heritage Oak verification), DBH, health and structural assessment, justification for removal, photo documentation, replacement plan from approved species list (Heritage Oaks replaced 3:1, street trees replaced 1:1 minimum 15-gallon container); Heritage Oak applications additionally require a public-notice mailing list to property owners within 300 feet. Required certifications: ISA Certified Arborist; Heritage Oak applications additionally require materials supporting the 300-foot public-notice findings under SMC Chapter 16.130.

  4. 4

    Submit to the permitting department

    Submit your application and assessment report to Community Development Department. Typical processing time: 2-4 weeks (10-day public notice period for heritage trees). Reference the full ordinance at https://ecode360.com/43717326.

    View the full Stockton ordinance

  5. 5

    Plan for replacement obligations

    Replacement ratio: 3:1 for heritage trees, 1:1 for street trees. Heritage trees replaced 3:1 at Director discretion. Street trees replaced 1:1, minimum 15-gallon container.

Where to file

Community Development Department

(209) 937-8561

Other California permit walkthroughs

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

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

Compare with nearby cities

Need an arborist report for your Stockton permit?

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

Start a TRAQ assessment