Do I Need a Tree Permit in Burlingame?
Burlingame protects any private tree with a circumference of 44 inches or more — roughly 14 inches in diameter. Here's what you need to know about permits, fees, and penalties before removing a protected tree.
Does my tree need a permit?
Select your tree species and measure the trunk circumference at 54 inches above natural grade to get an instant answer based on Burlingame's ordinance (Chapter 11.06).
Measure circumference at 54 inches above natural grade. Wrap a flexible tape around the trunk. If ≥44 inches, the tree is protected.
What trees are protected in Burlingame?
Burlingame's tree ordinance (Municipal Code Chapter 11.06 (Ord. 2037, Dec. 2024)) uses a single circumference threshold for all species. Any private tree with a circumference of 44 inches or more (approximately 14 inches diameter), measured at 54 inches above natural grade, is protected.
| Category | Protected at | Notes | Penalty |
|---|---|---|---|
| All private trees | ≥44″ circumference | Measured at 54″ above natural grade (approximately 14″ diameter) | $1,000/violation + restitution |
| Heritage trees & groves | Any size (designated) | Designated by Beautification Commission | Misdemeanor + restitution |
| Street trees | Any size | City-owned, in public right-of-way | City replacement + appraised value |
Not sure if your tree qualifies?
Measure the circumference (not diameter) at 54 inches above natural grade. If it's 44 inches or more, you need a permit. Wrap a flexible tape around the trunk — don't estimate. An arborist consultation ($150–$300) is far cheaper than the penalties for unpermitted removal.
How to get a tree removal permit in Burlingame
Burlingame's permit process runs through the Parks & Recreation. Here's the step-by-step sequence:
Measure the trunk
Wrap a flexible tape around the trunk at 54 inches above natural grade. If the circumference is 44 inches or more (roughly 14 inches diameter), the tree is protected and requires a permit. Heritage-designated trees are protected at any size.
Get an arborist report
An ISA Certified Arborist report is required for most protected tree removal applications. The report documents the tree's condition, reason for removal, and whether alternatives are feasible. Budget $300–$600 depending on complexity.
Many tree service companies include the arborist report in their service — confirm before hiring separately.
Submit to Parks & Recreation
File the Tree Removal Permit Application with the Parks & Recreation at (650) 558-7300. Include the arborist report, site plan, and photos. Pay the permit fee ($451 residential) at submission.
City review
A city arborist reviews the application and may visit the property. Heritage trees or groves require Beautification Commission review, which adds time. Standard processing takes approximately 6 weeks.
Heritage tree removals may be referred to the Beautification Commission for a public hearing.
Receive permit and schedule work
Once approved, hire a licensed tree service contractor (CSLB C-49 license required). The permit must be on-site during removal. Replacement planting may be required per permit conditions.
What happens if you remove a tree without a permit?
Misdemeanor/infraction + up to $1,000 per violation + restitution
Unauthorized removal of a protected tree in Burlingame can be charged as a misdemeanor or infraction, with fines up to $1,000 per violation — each tree and each day counts as a separate violation (11.06.120). The city requires restitution: a replacement tree or the tree's appraised value plus replacement costs. Failure to replant carries an additional $1,541 per tree fee.
A permit costs $451 (residential, FY 25-26) and takes about 6 weeks. A violation costs up to $1,000 per violation (each tree/day separate) plus the tree's appraised value plus replacement costs. There's no scenario where skipping the permit saves money.
Burlingame Parks & Recreation — contact and resources
Call before you apply
Parks & Recreation staff at (650) 558-7300 can often tell you on the phone whether your tree is likely protected and what documentation you'll need. A 10-minute call can save weeks of back-and-forth.
Frequently asked questions
Does pruning require a permit in Burlingame?
Pruning up to 25% of a protected tree's canopy does not require a permit, as long as it follows ISA pruning standards. Pruning more than 25% of the canopy or more than 15% of the roots requires a permit. Structural pruning on heritage trees should always involve an ISA Certified Arborist.
What if the tree is dead or hazardous?
Emergency removal is only authorized by order of the Parks & Recreation Director (or designated emergency personnel), and ordered removals must be completed within 7 days (11.06.030). There is no remove-first option. Document the situation with photos and contact Parks & Recreation at (650) 558-7300 before any work.
What about heritage trees and groves?
Heritage trees and groves designated by the Beautification Commission are protected regardless of size. Removal requires Commission review and public notification, adding time to the permit process. Heritage grove protections can extend to groups of trees with historical or ecological significance.
My neighbor's tree overhangs my property — do I need a permit?
You can trim branches back to the property line at your own expense without a city permit (California Civil Code). However, you cannot damage or kill the tree, and if the tree is protected (≥44″ circumference), significant trimming affecting more than 25% of the canopy does require a permit.
Related reading for Burlingame tree owners
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