Most cities dictate that a tree removal permit is required if you wish to remove your tree. Yes, even if it’s on your property and even if YOU planted it! We’re serious, so please don’t shoot the messenger!

Click any of the links below that correspond to the city that you wish to remove a tree in. You should be directed to a page that provides the permit application you’re looking for, although, not every city makes their permits available online. Please understand that we are attempting to connect you to city websites and we cannot guarantee accurate content, and then sometimes a website won’t load for whatever reason. We try to keep up with noting those issues in the notes below. Any .pdf that opens in your browser is from that particular cities website, not ours. Modern browsers don’t automatically download a .pdf to your computer, the .pdf opens in another browser window

• Atherton
Visit the municipal code for a more thorough understanding. Click on the “Title 8 HEALTH AND SAFETY” link, and then click on 8.08 or 8.10.

• Belmont
Visit the municipal code for a more thorough understanding.

• Burlingame

• Capitola
Visit the municipal code for a more thorough understanding.

• Cupertino

• Campbell
Visit the municipal code for a more thorough understanding.

• Carmel
Scroll down a bit to #16 to read about the process, or, click here for the permits.

• Foster City

• Fremont
Visit the municipal code for a more thorough understanding. Click on “Title 18 Planning and Zoning,” then scroll down a bit and click on “Chapter 18.215 Tree Preservation.”

• Gilroy
This link will give you information about tree removals but will not provide the permit application itself. Scroll down a bit to Chapter 26 to read more about Gilroy’s tree ordinance. You can pick up a copy of the permit application at the Community Services Department at City Hall or call (408)-846-0444 to have one mailed to you.

• Half Moon Bay
The best bet is that you call the City Manager now, at 650-726-8270, or their assistant, at 650-726-8910…ooorrr…click on the “Title 7” link in the left margin and then click on the “7.40 Heritage Trees” link.

• Hayward

• Hillsborough
You can also call the City for more information at 650-375-7411.

• Hollister
This link will give you information about tree removals but will not provide a copy of the permit application itself. Looks like you’ll have to contact the City Parks and Recreation Commission at (831) 636-4390. To learn more about Hollister’s tree ordinance follow the links, Title 12 Streets, Sidewalks, and Public Places; Chapter 12.24 Street Trees.

• Los Altos
Visit the municipal code for a more thorough understanding.

• Los Altos Hills
This link will give you information about tree removals but will not provide the permit application itself. Best to give them a call… your guess is as good as ours! You can read the muicipal code by clicking on the “Title 12 PARKS AND RECREATION” link, then click on “Chapter 2.”