Sacramento County enforces a distinctive tree policy that outlines the appropriate timing and methods for conducting tree maintenance within the county.
Due to this, you will have to obtain a removal permit to remove some trees in the county.
This is a summary that will provide you with information on which trees require a permit, removal permit procedure, emergency removal, and application.
Download: Sacramento tree ordinance
If you are removing protected trees, then you surely need a permit to do so.
The county of Sacrament is very strict when it comes to tree removal and as a result, whether a protected tree is on public or private property, then a permit through the Director of Public Works is required.
Tree Removal Permit Application procedure
If you want to remove a tree in Sacramento, you have to make sure that you make your tree permit application 10 days before the day of the actual removal.
In your application, you have to include the following information.
- A brief explanation of why you need to remove the said trees.
- Written consent from the property owner towards the proposed activity
- Tree survey covering information about the tree species, location, and number size; which is the tree diameter when measured 4.5 feet from the ground as well as its canopy diameter, and ages of the trees.
- In case the work will include other developments, the survey should cover that as well.
Once the permit is issued, it will be valid for a period of six months after which it will be void.
Can I appeal my tree removal permit application decision?
Yes. If you are not satisfied with the decision by the county after applying for a tree removal permit, you have a chance to appeal.
You will have 15 days from the issuing of the original decision to appeal the decision by writing to the clerk of the County Board of Supervisors.
Ensure you include relevant information that will support your appeal. A report from an independent arborist is very crucial. The county board will review the appeal and give you feedback within 30 days.
Emergency tree removal
There are cases in which the removal of a tree comes as an emergency. This is where the tree poses a danger or becomes a hazard to the public and there is a need for immediate action.
In such cases, the Director of Public Works will offer permission for removal even without the need for a permit application.
How much do I pay for the application?
The cost of the tree removal permit is subject to determination by the Board of Supervisors. It is their responsibility to determine the fee based on the expenses of the application.
Sacramento County Tree Preservation Fund
This is a project that was established in the county to raise money for the preservation of trees in the county. The funds from this project are used to replace illegally removed trees hence maintaining and increasing the tree cover in the county.
Approved Street Trees in Sacramento
Not all trees are allowed to be street trees. The county has a specific type of trees that can be planted on the City right of way or landscape strips. Anyone who wishes to plant trees in such areas must follow the count guidelines.
Check the following links to learn more about trees to plant.
https://www.cityofsacramento.org/Public-Works/Maintenance-Services/Trees/Street-Tree-List
