Do I Need a Tree Permit in Campbell?
Campbell protects trees at 12 inches diameter at 4 feet (48 inches) above adjacent grade. On developed single-family lots, only oak, redwood, cedar, and ash are protected. On non-single-family or undeveloped lots, all species qualify. Fruit trees and eucalyptus are exempt everywhere. Single-family removal permits are free. Here's the full breakdown.
Does my tree need a permit?
Select your tree type and measure the trunk to get an instant answer based on Campbell's ordinance (Chapter 21.32).
Measure diameter at 4 feet (48 inches) above adjacent grade. On SFR lots, only oak, redwood, cedar, and ash are protected. Fruit trees and eucalyptus are exempt.
What trees are protected in Campbell?
Campbell protects trees at 12 inches or more in trunk diameter, measured at 4 feet (48 inches) above adjacent grade. On developed single-family lots, only four species groups are protected: oak (Quercus), redwood (Sequoia), cedar (Cedrus), and ash (Fraxinus). On non-single-family or undeveloped lots, all species at 12 inches or more are protected. Fruit trees and all eucalyptus are exempt everywhere. Unlike most South Bay cities, Campbell does not require an independent arborist report for standard permit applications.
| Category | Protected at | Notes | Penalty |
|---|---|---|---|
| SFR lots (oak, redwood, cedar, ash only) | ≥12″ diameter | At 4 ft (48″) above adjacent grade. Fruit trees & eucalyptus exempt | Infraction ≤$100 / misdemeanor ≤$1,000 + 2x replacement |
| Non-SFR / undeveloped (all species) | ≥12″ diameter | At 4 ft (48″) above adjacent grade. Fruit trees & eucalyptus exempt | Infraction ≤$100 / misdemeanor ≤$1,000 + 4x replacement |
| Heritage trees | Designated by Historic Preservation Board | Any species, requires owner consent for designation | Infraction/misdemeanor + replacement + CTLA value |
| Street trees | Any size | City-owned, in public right-of-way | City replacement cost |
Not sure if your tree qualifies?
Measure first. An arborist consultation ($150–$300) is far cheaper than violation penalties. Call Community Development at (408) 866-2140 — they can often tell you on the phone whether your tree is likely protected.
How to get a tree removal permit in Campbell
Campbell's permit process runs through Community Development. Here's the step-by-step sequence:
Measure the trunk
Measure trunk diameter at 4 feet (48 inches) above adjacent grade. On single-family lots, only oak, redwood, cedar, and ash at 12 inches or more in diameter are protected. On other lot types, all species at 12 inches or more are protected. Fruit trees and eucalyptus are exempt.
Submit permit application
File the Tree Removal Permit Application with Community Development. No arborist report is required for standard applications. Single-family residential removal permits are free. Non-single-family permits cost $303.
City review
Community Development reviews the application. Standard processing takes 3–6 weeks. Landmark tree removals may require additional review and public notification.
Receive permit
Once approved, hire a licensed tree service contractor (CSLB C-49). 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?
Infraction or misdemeanor + replacement penalties
Removing a protected tree without a permit in Campbell is classified as an infraction (up to $100 fine) or misdemeanor (up to $1,000 and/or 6 months). The city also imposes replacement penalties at 2x the normal ratio for single-family lots or 4x for other properties, plus the CTLA-appraised value of the removed tree.
Single-family permits are free and take 3-6 weeks. Even non-SFR permits are only $303. The penalties for skipping it far exceed the cost. There's no scenario where unpermitted removal saves money.
Campbell Community Development — contact and resources
Call before you apply
Community Development staff at (408) 866-2140 can often tell you whether your tree is likely protected before you spend money on an arborist report. Worth a 10-minute call.
Frequently asked questions
Does pruning require a permit in Campbell?
Light maintenance pruning generally does not require a permit. However, removing more than 25% of a protected tree's canopy requires city approval. Always follow ISA pruning standards.
What if the tree is dead or hazardous?
Dead or dying trees can only be removed after a determination by the Community Development Director (zoning clearance plus photos required). True emergencies require notifying the Director beforehand, with a permit filed within 10 days after the emergency removal. Contact (408) 866-2140.
Does Campbell require an arborist report?
No. Unlike most Peninsula cities, Campbell does not require an independent arborist report for standard tree removal permits. This simplifies the process and reduces costs. However, for heritage or landmark trees, the city may request additional documentation.
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