Do I Need a Tree Permit in Belmont?

Who Needs a Permit?

You need a permit if your tree is: a Principal Native Tree (coast live oak, valley oak, redwood, madrone, bay laurel, buckeye) at 10-inch+ trunk diameter; any other species (Large Diameter Tree) at 14-inch+ trunk diameter (single stem); a city, right-of-way, or replacement tree of any size. Permits for blue gum eucalyptus, dwarf blue gum eucalyptus, Monterey pine, palms, acacias, and dead trees are issued automatically under Section 25-7(b)(6). Multi-trunk rule: up to three largest secondary stems totaling 10 inches (natives) or 18 inches (others).

How the Permit Process Works

Submit a permit application via eTRAKiT to Parks & Recreation (non-development projects) or Community Development (development projects). Include an ISA Certified Arborist report documenting species, size, health, structural condition, and removal justification. The permit fee is $92 flat (waived for emergencies). Standard review takes 2–4 weeks. If approved, plant a replacement tree or pay the $611 per tree in-lieu fee. Emergency removals: call (650) 595-7441.

Penalties for Unpermitted Removal

Unauthorized removal triggers penalties under Section 25-9: removal fees plus replanting of equal value to the removed tree. The city can also issue stop-work orders. General penalties under BCC Section 1-8 apply. Replacement planting is mandatory.

Tips from an ISA Certified Arborist

Know your categories — the 10-inch threshold for Principal Native Trees (oak, redwood, madrone, bay laurel, buckeye) captures most mature specimens in hillside neighborhoods, while the 14-inch threshold for Large Diameter Trees covers other species. Eucalyptus, Monterey pine, palm, and acacia permits are issued automatically, making fire safety work straightforward. For hillside properties near Waterdog Lake, consider a property-wide assessment rather than tree-by-tree decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Belmont?
Yes, if the tree is protected under City Code Chapter 25 (Ord. 2017-1120). Principal Native Trees (coast live oak, valley oak, redwood, madrone, bay laurel, buckeye) at 10-inch or larger trunk diameter are protected. Large Diameter Trees (all other species) at 14-inch or larger trunk diameter are protected. Eucalyptus, Monterey pine, palm, and acacia permits are issued automatically.

What trees are excluded from Belmont's ordinance?
Eucalyptus, Monterey pine, palm, and acacia are specifically excluded from protection. These species can be removed from private property without a city permit — useful for hillside fire safety.

How much does a tree removal permit cost in Belmont?
The permit fee is $92 flat (waived for emergencies). In-lieu fees are $611 per tree. You may also need an ISA Certified Arborist report ($300–$700) for protected tree removals. Contact Parks & Recreation (non-development) or Community Development (development projects).

How long does a Belmont tree permit take?
Standard permits: 2–4 weeks through Parks & Recreation (non-development) or Community Development (development projects). Apply via eTRAKiT online portal.

What happens if I remove a tree without a permit in Belmont?
Unauthorized removal triggers removal fees plus replanting of equal value under Section 25-9. The city can also issue stop-work orders. General penalties apply under BCC Section 1-8. Mandatory replacement planting is required.

Contact Information

• Ordinance: Belmont City Code Chapter 25 — Trees
• Permits: Belmont Permit Information
• Non-development permits: Parks & Recreation via eTRAKiT — (650) 595-7441 (emergency line)
• Development permits: Community Development Department
• Fee: $92 flat (waived for emergencies); in-lieu $611/tree

Written by Michael Schuck, ISA Certified Arborist WE-15750A. Updated July 2026. This page is general guidance, not legal advice. Always confirm current requirements with your local San Mateo County jurisdiction.