Removing or significantly altering a tree on your Redwood City property is not as simple as hiring someone with a chainsaw. The City of Redwood City has a Tree Preservation Ordinance that regulates the removal, pruning, and replacement of trees to protect the urban canopy. Violating these rules can result in steep fines and mandatory replanting at your expense.

This guide covers everything Redwood City homeowners need to know about tree permits in 2026, including when a permit is required, how to apply, what the city looks for when reviewing applications, and how to avoid costly mistakes.

Understanding Redwood City’s Tree Preservation Ordinance

Redwood City’s tree regulations are primarily governed by Chapter 35 of the Redwood City Municipal Code, which establishes the city’s Tree Preservation Ordinance. The ordinance was put in place to preserve and enhance the urban tree canopy, protect mature and heritage trees, maintain property values, and reduce urban heat island effects.

The ordinance applies to both private property trees and public right-of-way trees, though the rules differ depending on the tree’s location and size.

When Do You Need a Tree Permit?

Protected Tree Removal

A tree removal permit is required for any tree with a trunk diameter of 12 inches or greater measured at 4.5 feet above ground level (known as diameter at breast height, or DBH). For reference, that translates to a circumference of approximately 38 inches — roughly the size you can wrap both hands around with fingers touching.

This threshold applies regardless of tree species, health, or location on your property.

Street Trees

Trees located in the public right-of-way — the strip between the sidewalk and the street, or within a certain distance of public roads — are considered street trees. These are technically city property even if you have been maintaining them for years. Any work on street trees, including pruning, requires a separate street tree permit from the city’s Public Works Department.

When a Permit Is NOT Required

You generally do not need a permit for:

  • Removing trees with a trunk diameter under 12 inches (unless they are street trees)
  • Routine pruning that removes less than 25% of the canopy, as long as ANSI A-300 standards are followed
  • Removing dead trees (though documentation may be requested)
  • Emergency removal when a tree poses an immediate safety hazard (you should notify the city promptly after emergency work)

The Removal Permit Process

Step 1: Submit an Application

Tree removal permit applications are available through the Redwood City Community Development Department. The application requires:

  • Property owner information
  • Tree location on the property (a site map is helpful)
  • Tree species, size, and condition
  • Reason for removal
  • Proposed replanting plan

Step 2: Arborist Report

For most protected tree removals, the city requires a certified arborist report that documents the tree’s health, structural integrity, and risk level. This report should be prepared by an ISA Certified Arborist and typically costs between $200 and $500 depending on the complexity.

Step 3: City Review

The city reviews applications based on several criteria:

  • Is the tree dead, dying, or hazardous? Dead or structurally compromised trees are generally approved for removal.
  • Is there structural damage to property? Trees causing foundation damage, sewer line intrusion, or significant hardscape damage may qualify.
  • Is there an obstruction issue? Trees blocking essential construction, solar access, or utility lines may be approved.
  • Can the tree be preserved through alternative means? The city may suggest root barriers, crown reduction, or other measures before approving removal.
  • Is there an adequate replanting plan? A commitment to replant can strengthen your application.

Step 4: Approval and Conditions

If approved, the permit will include conditions such as replanting requirements, a timeline for removal, and sometimes restrictions on how the work is performed. Permits are typically valid for a limited period, often 6-12 months.

Replanting Requirements

Redwood City generally requires one replacement tree for every tree removed. The replacement tree must meet minimum size requirements, typically a 15-gallon or 24-inch box container size.

The city may also specify:

  • Species recommendations that are appropriate for the location
  • Planting location on the same property
  • Maintenance period during which the property owner must ensure the replacement tree survives
  • In-lieu fees if replanting on the property is not feasible, where the fee goes toward the city’s tree planting fund

Pruning Standards and Requirements

Even when a permit is not required for pruning, Redwood City expects all tree pruning to follow industry best practices:

ANSI A-300 Standards

The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) A-300 is the accepted standard for tree care operations. Key requirements include:

  • No topping (removing the top of the tree’s crown)
  • No lion-tailing (stripping interior branches, leaving foliage only at branch tips)
  • Proper pruning cuts at the branch collar
  • No more than 25% of live canopy removed in a single year

ISA Best Management Practices

The International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) publishes Best Management Practices (BMPs) for tree pruning that supplement ANSI standards. These cover specific pruning types:

  • Crown cleaning — removing dead, dying, or diseased branches
  • Crown thinning — selectively removing branches to increase light and air
  • Crown raising — removing lower branches for clearance
  • Crown reduction — reducing the height or spread using proper cuts

Hiring a company that follows these standards protects you from liability if a neighbor or the city questions the work performed on your trees.

Penalties for Illegal Tree Removal

Removing a protected tree without a permit is a violation of the Redwood City Municipal Code. Penalties can include:

  • Fines that can reach several thousand dollars per tree
  • Mandatory replanting of replacement trees at the property owner’s expense, often at a ratio higher than one-to-one
  • Stop work orders on any related construction projects
  • Additional penalties if the removal was done to facilitate unpermitted development

The city does investigate reports of unauthorized tree removal. Neighbors, city inspectors, and utility crews all report suspicious activity. The cost of a permit is always less than the cost of a violation.

How Firefighter Tree Service Handles Permits for You

Navigating tree permits can be confusing, especially when you are dealing with a tree that is causing damage or creating a safety hazard. At Firefighter Tree Service, we handle the entire permit process for Redwood City homeowners:

  • Free initial assessment to determine if your tree qualifies for removal
  • Arborist report preparation by our certified arborists
  • Permit application submission and follow-up with the city
  • Replanting plan development that satisfies city requirements
  • Compliant removal following all conditions of the approved permit

We work with the City of Redwood City regularly and understand exactly what the Community Development Department looks for in a permit application. This experience helps us prepare complete applications that avoid unnecessary delays.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the permit process take?

Standard tree removal permits typically take 2 to 4 weeks for review. Emergency situations may be expedited. Having a complete application with an arborist report speeds up the process significantly.

Can my HOA require additional approvals?

Yes. Many homeowners associations in Redwood City have their own tree removal policies that are separate from city requirements. You may need HOA approval in addition to a city permit.

What if my tree is damaging my neighbor’s property?

You are generally responsible for your tree, even if branches or roots extend onto a neighbor’s property. A permit is still required for removal of protected trees regardless of the reason.

Does the city have a list of approved replacement tree species?

The city may recommend species from its approved street tree list or suggest alternatives based on your specific site conditions. Your arborist can help identify appropriate species.

Where can I find the official city regulations?

The full Tree Preservation Ordinance is available through the City of Redwood City’s Municipal Code, Chapter 35. You can also visit the Community Development Department’s website or contact their office directly for current requirements.

Need Help With a Tree Permit?

Do not risk fines or project delays by guessing about permit requirements. Firefighter Tree Service has helped hundreds of Redwood City homeowners navigate the tree permit process smoothly and efficiently.

Call us today at (650) 454-0373 for a free consultation. We will assess your tree, explain your options, and handle the paperwork so you can focus on what matters.