Do you need a permit to cut down a tree in Menlo Park, CA? Enter your address for Menlo Park tree removal and pruning rules, size thresholds and how to apply.
Heritage trees are California native oaks 10"+ in diameter and any other tree 15"+, measured at 54" (multi-trunk trees under 12 ft tall do not count). Removing one, or pruning more than a quarter of it, needs a permit (MC Chapter 13.24, effective July 1, 2020). Fines run up to $5,000 per tree, or its appraised value if higher.
How to apply: Apply for a heritage tree permit on the Menlo Park online portal with a report from a City-approved consulting arborist.
How to measure: most Bay Area cities measure trunk diameter (or circumference) at 4.5 ft (54") above natural grade, but some measure elsewhere: Berkeley at 4 ft, Redwood City at the widest point between 6" and 36". Where a city sets its limit by circumference, we show the diameter (circumference ÷ 3.14).
Official sources: menlopark.gov/Government/Departments/Public-Works/Maintenanc