Tree Permits

About the Permit

Some properties require a tree permit to perform any work on or around native oak trees and other mature trees 19 inches or greater in diameter. The City's Tree Regulations exempt properties that are less than 10,000 sf from the permit requirement.  To check the size of your parcel, use Sacramento County Assessor's Office Parcel Viewer.

The City's Tree Preservation Regulations provide information on the sizes and species that are exempt and do not require a permit. If a permit is required, file the Tree Permit application via the City's online application portal with the $32.24 permit fee. Tree permits may require the submittal of site plan (PDF) and arborist report (PDF). For additional information, contact the Planning Division.


APPLY FOR TREE PERMIT


Calculating the Diameter

To calculate the diameter of a tree, measure the tree's circumference and divide by 3.142. If this answer is greater than 6 for an oak tree or greater than 19 for other types of trees, than a tree permit must be filed.

Why does the city regulate private trees?

Native oak trees have existed as dominant and magnificent features in the landscape of the Central Valley of California for several centuries. Over the years, native oak trees have declined in number to accommodate agriculture and development at a much faster pace than natural regeneration. The city recognizes that mature trees are a valuable resource for the community. Trees benefit the community in several ways:

  • Large, healthy trees increase property values.
  • Trees contribute to the attractiveness and livability of Citrus Heights.
  • Trees contribute to the visual framework, climate control, preservation of other natural resources, property values, and provide a critical element of nature in an urban environment in the city.
  • Trees can save energy costs by shading houses and decreasing heat absorption during the summer as well as blocking and redirecting wind flow during the winter.
  • Trees provide food and protection for many types of wildlife.
  • Trees fight the atmosphere greenhouse effect by absorbing carbon dioxide and capturing pollution in leaves.
  • Trees trap and hold harmful pollutants and produce oxygen.
  • Trees conserve water and reduce soil erosion.