If you’re hoping to remove a tree on your San Jose CA property, you need to be aware of the limitations and necessary permits. You will need a permit for removal if it is a street tree, heritage tree, ordinance-size tree (alive or dead), or if its location is on multifamily, commercial, industrial, mixed-use property, or in a common area.
Local laws for tree removal and pruning can be difficult to tackle on your own, so we’ve compiled a quick and easy guide of what may or may not be possible for your property.
Most Important Points in San Jose CA’s Tree Laws
Many San Jose CA homeowners don’t realize that removing a protected tree without proper permits can result in significant fines, sometimes in the thousands of dollars. This is one of the reasons why we always recommend checking regulations before starting any tree removal project.
Our region is home to several tree species that receive special protection under local ordinances, including:
- Coast Live Oaks (Quercus agrifolia)
- Valley Oaks (Quercus lobata)
- Blue Oaks (Quercus douglasii)
- California Buckeyes (Aesculus californica)
- Other native species (as designated by the city)
However, there are some exceptions that may apply to your situation:
- Dead trees that pose an immediate hazard (documentation is still recommended).
- Emergency removals following storm damage when safety is at risk.
- Trees under the size threshold that aren’t designated as heritage species.
- Fruit trees and certain ornamental species that aren’t covered under the ordinance.
Determining which exemptions apply can be tricky. What looks like a clear-cut case might not meet the city’s criteria. That’s where having an ISA-certified arborist on your side makes all the difference.
Does the Location of the Tree Matter?
Yes, the location of the tree you’d like to remove is important. If your tree is between the street and sidewalk, or within the front five feet of your yard, it may be considered a street tree.
Street trees need a permit to be removed and require one of the following criteria:
- The tree is in a dangerous condition and a potential hazard.
- The tree is causing issues for nearby power lines or sewage systems, and those issues cannot be fixed by means other than removing the tree.
- The tree has caused significant concrete damage, only if the concrete has been replaced more than once within the last ten years.
- The tree goes against local community forest master plans or is in the way of an approved development plan.
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Does the Type of Tree Matter?
Yes, depending on the history, species, uniqueness, or size of your tree, it can be considered a heritage tree, even on private property. The only way to guarantee if your tree is a heritage tree (or not) is by using the San Jose CA Heritage Tree Map or by contacting the municipal San Jose CA Forestry department. It is illegal to prune or remove heritage trees without a permit.
Additionally, if the tree has a circumference larger than 38 inches and a height taller than 4 ½ feet, whether it has one trunk or multiple, it’s classified as an ordinance-size tree. Ordinance-size trees need a permit to be removed, which will be granted if the tree is a safety concern, dying or diseased, unsuitable, or restricts development plans. Tree replacement ratios must be referenced to ensure the environment is properly taken care of afterward.
Are All Tree Removals Possible?
Unfortunately, no. Depending on your specific tree and your reasoning for removal, in some cases, it may not be possible. However, Aly’s Tree Trimming & Yard Clean Up is here for you to do our best to get you the necessary permits so your property can look just like your plans.
One of our certified arborists will inspect your property, determine what’s possible for you, and handle the permit processing for you, so you don’t have to stress about which permits apply to your needs.
When You Need a Professional Tree Removal
- You have hazardous or failing trees. Some trees simply can’t be saved. When a tree becomes hazardous (whether from disease, pest infestation, storm damage, or structural failure), professional removal protects your home, your family, and your neighbors.
- There’s storm damage or an emergency situation. San Jose CA doesn’t see hurricanes, but our winter storms can still cause serious tree damage. High winds, heavy rain, and saturated soil create conditions where even healthy-looking trees can fail.
- Your trees are causing property damage. Sometimes a tree’s roots or branches create ongoing problems that can’t be resolved through trimming alone.
- You’re planning landscape renovations. Maybe you’re not dealing with a problem tree, you’re simply ready for a change. Whether you’re creating space for drought-wise landscaping, building an addition, or redesigning your outdoor living area, tree removal might be part of your plan.
Contact Aly’s Tree Trimming & Yard Clean Up for Your Tree Needs
In a state with such strict environmental guidelines, choosing a professional with the right experience is important. Since 2000, Aly’s Tree Trimming & Yard Clean Up has been assisting property owners with tree removal, trimming, and planting services.
So if you need a tree on your property removed, reach out to us today to get your tree properly evaluated by a local expert.
