Do you need a permit to cut down a tree in Redwood City, CA? Enter your address for Redwood City tree removal and pruning rules, size thresholds and how to apply.
Private trees of any species more than 12" in diameter (38" circumference), measured at the widest point between 6" and 36" above the ground, need a permit before pruning or removal. The permit is free. Replanting at least one tree per tree removed is a normal condition.
How to apply: Submit a tree permit request to the Redwood City arborist. The permit is free.
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: redwoodcity.org/departments/community-development-department