Navigating San Jose’s Tree Removal Permit Process in 2024: What Every Property Owner Needs to Know

When it comes to removing trees in San Jose, understanding the city’s strict permit requirements is crucial for homeowners and contractors alike. The City of San Jose, CA has established an extensive and strict tree ordinance which protects its population of trees, with fines up to $15,000 per tree for unauthorized street tree removal and fines up to $30,000 per tree for heritage tree violations.

Understanding San Jose’s Tree Categories

San Jose classifies trees into three main categories, each with different permit requirements:

• Street Trees: Located in the public right-of-way between the curb and sidewalk; in some locations, the public right-of-way may be up to 12 feet from the curb. Street tree permits are free!
• Heritage Trees: More than 100 trees with special significance to the community because of their size, history, unusual species, or unique quality
• Ordinance-Size Trees: Trees on private property with circumference at 4 1/2 feet above ground, add up to 38 inches or more in circumference

Permit Requirements and Costs

On single-family or duplex lots, a permit is required to remove an ordinance-size tree, even if it is unhealthy or dead. On multifamily, commercial, or industrial lots, a permit is required to remove a tree of any size. The permit process can be costly, with residents potentially paying more than $2,000 to remove a healthy large tree on their property, compared to other large cities in California, that cost is high.

San Jose city officials defended the higher costs, saying the costs are justified by the fact that staff time spent on tree removals is not covered by the city’s general fund, unlike other cities. The fees are intended to cover staff hours spent reviewing applications and notifying the public about trees slated for removal.

The Application Process

The permit application process varies depending on the type of tree removal:

For Dead, Dying, or Diseased Trees

Ordinance-size trees that are dead or dying (lacking enough live branches or green leaves to sustain life) and not simply dormant may qualify for removal. Submit the Tree Removal Permit Application with a signed certified arborist report. The Department Director or designee evaluates the application and makes a final decision (no appeals). There is no public notice or Director’s Hearing.

For Unsuitable Trees

The tree trunk is 5 feet or less from the existing residence, secondary unit or garage. The tree trunk is 5 feet or less from the centerline of a below-ground utility line or pipe. Submit the Tree Removal Permit Application. The Department Director or designee evaluates the application and makes a final decision (no appeals). There is no public notice or Director’s Hearing.

For Live Trees (Development Purposes)

Removing a live, ordinance-size tree, for reasons other than disease or unsuitability, such as in the case of enabling economic development of a property, requires a clear case and more evaluation. Submit the Tree Removal Permit Application and be prepared to pay applicable fees. The City will mail notices as part of a ten day public notice period. The applicant will also post a notice in the front yard. The public can request a Director’s Hearing during the notice period.

Required Documentation

When submitting your application, you must include:

• Tree description and site plan (pages 3 & 4 of the application form)
• Color photograph of each tree (showing the entire tree) printed on 8.5″ X 11″ paper
• Pay the non-refundable fee if required: Checks made payable to: City of San Jose. After review, City staff may require an arborist report

Tree Replacement Requirements

You must replace each ordinance-size tree that you remove. Single-family/duplex lots: Replace with a minimum 15-gallon tree. Every ordinance-sized tree legally removed from a single-family or duplex lot, must be replaced by a minimum 15-gallon tree. The City of San Jose recommends contacting Our City Forest to acquire replacement trees on a tax-deductible donation basis. Our City Forest can be reached at (408) 998-7337 or at www.ourcityforest.org.

Professional Tree Removal Services

Given the complexity of San Jose’s tree removal regulations, many property owners choose to work with professional services. For those needing tree removal san jose services, companies like The Dump Pro provide comprehensive solutions. 1-877-DUMP-PRO is a full-service, locally owned and operated junk removal company. For years, we’ve been providing residents and business owners in the San Francisco Bay Area with the most dependable, efficient, and affordable hauling services.

The Dump Pro is a dependable and reliable company taking care of all your residential and or commercial needs. Providing trustworthy and friendly service we tackle every assignment with dedication to do the best job possible, and pride ourselves on always leaving your property broom clean after every job. Customer satisfaction is vitally important to us. In fact, we are proud to say that a great deal of our company’s success is based on the repeat business, word of mouth, and referrals from our customers, for which we are very grateful and most appreciative. We believe we should earn the trust of our customers through exceptional performance.

Important Reminders

2 days before removing a tree or having a stump removed, it is recommended to call 811. This free call will notify local utility companies that you intend to dig. They will come to your project site and mark any existing underground lines. The marks remain valid for a period of 28 days.

For questions about permits, call a City Planner at 408-535-3555 for trees on private property, or call the City Arborist at 408-794-1901 for street trees, heritage trees, or trees on public property.

Conclusion

San Jose’s tree removal permit process reflects the city’s commitment to preserving its urban forest while balancing property owners’ needs. While the process may seem complex, understanding the requirements and working with experienced professionals can help ensure compliance and avoid costly penalties. Whether you’re a homeowner dealing with a hazardous tree or a contractor planning a development project, taking the time to navigate the permit process properly is essential for successful tree removal in San Jose.