📍Where is the tree? (your address)
Or pick it yourself:
San José
Tree Permits
Do you need a permit to cut down a tree in San José, CA? Enter your address for San José tree removal and pruning rules, size thresholds and how to apply.
Do you need a permit to cut down a tree in San José, CA? Enter your address for San José tree removal and pruning rules, size thresholds and how to apply.
On single-family or duplex lots, removing an ordinance-size tree (38"+ circumference, about 12.1" diameter, at 4.5 ft; multi-trunk: combined circumference) needs a permit, even if it is dead or unhealthy. Multifamily, commercial and industrial lots need a permit for any size. Heritage-list trees and street trees have separate rules.
How to apply: Submit a Tree Removal Permit application to San José Planning.
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: sanjoseca.gov/your-government/departments-offices/planning-b