Trees
In an effort to manage the urban tree canopy in Mountain View, certain trees require permits to remove.
What is a Heritage Tree?
- Any Oak, Redwood or Cedar tree that has a trunk circumference of 12” or more when measured at 54” above natural grade; or
- Any tree that has a trunk circumference of 48" or more measured 54" from the ground; or
- A multi-branched tree that has major branches below 54” above the natural grade with a circumference of 48” measured just below the first major trunk fork; or
- A grove of trees designated as "heritage" by the City Council.
What is a Street Tree?
- A tree located typically within the first 5' of a front yard area, behind the sidewalk, or a tree located between the sidewalk and street.
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Always call before you dig, it’s the law! |
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Common Questions
Permit Requirement
A permit is required to remove a Heritage tree or Street tree with either the Planning Division or the Urban Forestry Division. An inspection by City staff may be required to confirm a replacement tree(s) has been planted following removal of the tree(s).
Where do I submit my tree removal application?
| Tree removal situation | urban forestry | Planning |
|---|---|---|
| Removing a dead or fallen Heritage tree or Street tree on any property | X | |
| Removing a Street tree in front of any property (without other construction activity proposed) | X | |
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Removing any number of Heritage tree(s) or Street tree(s) at a single family home or duplex property (with or without other construction activity proposed) Note: A tree removal permit related to construction activity will be reviewed in tandem with a submitted building permit to the City. |
X | |
| Removing a Heritage tree(s) as part of a development permit on a nonresidential site or a multifamily residential site (with or without a Homeowners Association). | X | |
| Removing 3 or fewer Heritage trees on any multifamily residential or nonresidential property where no other construction activity is proposed | X | |
| Removing 4 or more Heritage trees on any multifamily residential or nonresidential property (with or without other construction activity proposed) | X | |
| Removing a tree(s) that does not qualify as a Heritage tree or Street tree on any multifamily residential or nonresidential property |
Contact Planning |
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| Removing a tree on a single-family or duplex property that is not a Heritage tree or Street tree | No permit is required. | |