Do I Need a Tree Permit in Hayward?
Yes. Hayward's 2025 replacement ordinance (adopted September 2025) protects 17 listed native species at 4 inches DSH citywide — including single-family rear yards. Street trees are protected at any size. Pruning branches over 4 inches in diameter on protected trees also requires a permit.
Who Needs a Permit?
Under the 2025 replacement ordinance (HMC Ch. 10, Art. 15, adopted 9/2/2025, effective ~10/2/2025), you need a permit for any of the following:
- 17 listed native species at 4 inches DSH (diameter at standard height, measured 54 inches above ground) — this applies citywide including single-family rear yards
- Street trees of any species or size
- Trees required by development approvals
- Pruning: cutting branches over 4 inches in diameter on any protected tree (HMC 10-15.21(1)(i))
- Multi-trunk trees: the largest three trunks are measured and combined to determine whether the 4-inch threshold is met
2025 Ordinance Change — Major Expansion
Hayward's tree ordinance was repealed and replaced in 2025. The old rules (8-inch caliper, front yard and commercial properties only) no longer apply. The new ordinance protects 17 native species at 4 inches DSH everywhere on your property, including rear yards. If you relied on the old rules, check the updated requirements before doing any tree work.
How the Permit Process Works
Submit your application through the e-Permits portal or in person at Development Services, 777 B Street, Hayward.
- Fee: $587 (the FY26 Master Fee Schedule lists $490)
- Processing time: approximately one week
- Review: the City's Landscape Architect reviews all applications
- Dead or hazardous trees: a permit is still required, but it is approved upon evidence that the tree is dying, diseased, or dead as confirmed by the City Landscape Architect (HMC 10-15.26(1))
- Arborist report: an ISA Certified Arborist report documenting species, trunk diameter, condition, and removal justification is recommended for all applications
Penalties for Unpermitted Removal
Removing a protected tree without a permit carries significant consequences under the 2025 ordinance:
- Administrative fine: double the permit fee (HMC 10-15.29(1))
- Criminal charges: potential misdemeanor prosecution
- Mitigation — residential (2 or fewer trees): two 24-inch box replacement trees per removed tree
- Mitigation — 3+ trees, commercial, or heritage: replacement based on ISA-appraised valuation of the removed tree(s)
Tips from an ISA Certified Arborist
- The 4-inch branch pruning threshold is the key number to remember for day-to-day tree care. Anything under 4 inches does not trigger a permit.
- The 2025 ordinance applies to rear yards — many homeowners do not realize their backyard oaks are now protected under the new rules.
- Get species identification before any work. Only the 17 listed native species trigger the 4-inch DSH threshold. Non-native trees on private property are not covered unless they were required by a development approval.
- Street trees need permits regardless of species or size. Contact the city before any parkway tree work, even for pruning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Hayward?
Yes, if the tree is one of 17 listed native species at 4 inches DSH (diameter at standard height, measured at 54 inches above ground). This applies citywide including single-family rear yards — a major change from the old ordinance. Street trees and development-required trees are also protected regardless of species.
Do I need a permit to prune a protected tree in Hayward?
Yes — Hayward requires permits for cutting branches over 4 inches in diameter on protected trees under HMC 10-15.21(1)(i). This applies to both native protected trees and street trees. Routine pruning of smaller branches does not require a permit.
How much does a tree removal permit cost in Hayward?
The permit fee is $587 (the FY26 Master Fee Schedule lists $490). An ISA Certified Arborist report is recommended for all protected tree removals. Contact Development Services at (510) 583-4208.
How long does a Hayward tree permit take?
Approximately one week. The City's Landscape Architect reviews applications. Submit through the e-Permits portal or at 777 B Street.
What happens if I remove a tree without a permit in Hayward?
The administrative fine is double the permit fee under HMC 10-15.29(1), plus potential misdemeanor charges. Mitigation for residential properties (2 or fewer trees) requires two 24-inch box replacement trees per removed tree. For 3 or more trees, commercial properties, or heritage trees, replacement is based on ISA-appraised valuation.
Contact Information
- Ordinance: Hayward Municipal Code Chapter 10, Article 15 — Tree Preservation
- Permits: Hayward Tree Removal & Pruning Permit Information
- Contact: Development Services / Landscape Architect, 777 B Street, Hayward, CA 94541 — (510) 583-4208
- e-Permits: Hayward e-Permits Portal
Related reading for Hayward residents
Need a tree assessment or permit help?
An ISA Certified Arborist report strengthens your Hayward permit application and ensures compliant removal with proper replacement planning.