5 replies to this topic

[traceyl]

Do I need a permit to remove a tree from my front yard? I checked the city website and to me it looks like one is only needed if I'm removing a 'protected' tree. But wanted to double-check here, just in case

Thanks
Tracey

[The Average Joe]

AFAIK, only Oak trees of a certain diameter require a permit, but there are exceptions. Trees over a certain diameter in a riparian zone, trees considered heritage (over 100 inches in circumference... buckeye and sycamore included), etc. Best just to talk to someone in the city, as codes vary by location.
Also, some cities require certain types of trees in certain locations for front yards.

Have fun! I removed some trees a while back...stump grinding is no picnic!

[folsom500]

AFAIK, only Oak trees of a certain diameter require a permit, but there are exceptions. Trees over a certain diameter in a riparian zone, trees considered heritage (over 100 inches in circumference... buckeye and sycamore included), etc. Best just to talk to someone in the city, as codes vary by location.
Also, some cities require certain types of trees in certain locations for front yards.

I also see to remember some verbage about a tree that was with 12 feet of the street or sidewalk ( forget which) that is technically within the city easement zone. Best to check but might want to block you caller ID just in case...

Have fun! I removed some trees a while back...stump grinding is no picnic!

There's an app for that-- Check under Stump Grinder for Hire...

[Molly]

I think the rule is that you have to have at least one shade tree within 12 feet of the sidewalk (might be two in some neighborhoods). We called the city arborist before removing several trees in our front yard, and he came out and actually gave us a bunch of helpful information. The permit wasn't expensive, I think it was $30.

[sat]

We removed two trees in our front yard in the last two years. I never even thought of a permit. My husband and a neighbor chopped them down, and we had Folsom pick up for yard waste. The man who grinded the stumps never mentioned anything about a permit.

[tony]

Best bet is to call the city arborist, Ken Menzer. We removed a couple of trees last year as well, but we called first just to be sure. As others indicated, trees requiring a permit for removal are oaks, street trees (trees in the 12.5' wide strip adjacent to the street ROW) and trees specifically designated as heritage trees by the city (we have one in our yard that could be so designated, but has not been to date).