A Tree Removal Permit is required when a protected tree is proposed for removal. The a
pplication for removal of a protected tree can be found here. An arborist report from a certified arborist may be required as part of the application, unless the tree is clearly dead or dying, in order to provide an evaluation of the tree condition and identify whether measures can be taken short of removal to address issues concerning the tree. The fee can be paid utilizing the
credit card authorization form.
Once the application is completed and all required criteria are met, complete the credit card authorization and email the submittal to
[email protected].
PROTECTED TREE DEFINTION. Protected tree or trees shall mean the following:
1. Select trees with a single perennial stem of twelve (12) inches or larger in circumference measured four (4) and a half feet above the natural grade. The list of select trees includes:
a. Coast Live Oak.
b. Madrone.
c. Buckeye.
d. Black Walnut.
e. Redwood.
f. Big Leafed Maple.
g. Redbud.
h. California Bay.
i. Toyon.
2. Any other tree with a single perennial stem greater than fifty-six (56) inches or larger in circumference measured four and a half (4 1/2) feet above the natural grade.
a. Trees species specifically excluded from protection regardless of size or health include any other species of nut or fruit trees, palm trees or eucalyptus trees.
b. Also any tree species not listed above, that is smaller than fifty-six (56) inches in circumference measured four and a half feet (4 1/2) above the natural grade is excluded from protection.
3. For convenience in the field, circumferences are considered equivalent to diameter as follows:
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4 inches
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12 inches
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9 inches
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28 inches
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12 inches
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37 inches
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18 inches
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56 inches
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Removing trees adjacent to or those rooted in Pinole Creek (even if part of private property) may require a permit from CA Department of Fish and Wildlife (707) 266-2878.
FINDINGS TO CONSIDER REMOVAL OF PROTECTED TREE DUE TO HEALTH AND CONDITION.
1. The condition of the protected tree(s) with respect to disease, species, form, general health, damage, public nuisance, danger of falling, proximity to existing structures, interference with utility services, or damage to existing sidewalks and driveways warrants it's (their) removal and such condition cannot reasonably be remedied through less drastic means.
2. The protected tree(s) acts as a host for a parasitic plant or insect which may endanger other protected tree(s) in the area and cannot reasonably be controlled through less drastic means.
REVIEW OF PROTECTED TREE REMOVAL DUE TO HEALTH AND CONDITION
Protected tree removal due to health and condition is reviewed administratively by Staff.
REVIEW OF PROTECTED TREE REMOVAL DUE TO DEVELOPMENT
Protected tree removal due to development is reviewed by the approval body of the development application. Planning Commission reviews protected tree removal if removal is only due to building permits, and not related to health and condition.