Do I Need a Tree Permit in Lafayette?
Lafayette adopted an updated Tree Protection Ordinance (Chapter 6-17, Ord. 694) on November 25, 2024. The ordinance sets strict-liability civil fines by tree diameter, mandatory replacement with no in-lieu option, and a 5-year development restriction for violators. Indigenous species on developed property are protected at 12 inches trunk diameter.
The Short Answer: Yes, Permits Are Required
Lafayette's updated 2025 Tree Protection Ordinance protects indigenous species (oak, bay, buckeye, madrone) at 12 inches trunk diameter on developed property, and native species at 6 inches on undeveloped property. Riparian species are protected at 6 inches (4 inches for multi-trunk component). The 2025 update introduced new penalties based on tree diameter and lowered replacement tree ratios.
Fire-district notices under the ordinance route through the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District (ConFire, not Moraga-Orinda FD) per section 6-1705. The Director acts within 30 days of application (60 if referred).
Fire District: Contra Costa County Fire Protection District
Fire-district notices under Lafayette's tree ordinance route through the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District (ConFire), not Moraga-Orinda FD (section 6-1705). The Director acts on applications within 30 days (60 days if referred to a hearing body).
What Trees Are Protected in Lafayette?
Lafayette's tree protection covers:
- Indigenous on developed property — 8 oak species, bay, buckeye, and madrone at 12"+ trunk diameter
- Native on undeveloped property — Native species at 6"+, other species at 12"+
- Riparian trees — Native riparian species (maple, alder, walnut, willow, oak, bay, elderberry) at 6"+ (4"+ multi-trunk)
- Protected at any size — ROW/street trees, downtown commercial, restricted-ridgeline natives, development-condition trees (post-11/25/2024), and replacement trees
Contra Costa County Comparison: Lafayette vs. Neighbors
| Requirement | Lafayette | Walnut Creek | Orinda |
|---|---|---|---|
| Protected size | 12" (indigenous, developed) | 9" (all species) | 12" (oak on developed) |
| Undeveloped land | 6" (native), 12" (other) | Same as developed | Varies by designation |
| Riparian | 6" (4" multi-trunk) | No specific riparian | 4" (native riparian) |
| Penalty | Fines per diameter (2025) | Misdemeanor + appraised value | Up to $5,000/tree |
| Updated | January 2025 | May 2024 | 2025 (Ord. 25-03) |
The Permit Process: Step by Step
Determine if a permit is required
Check your tree's species and trunk diameter against the 2025 thresholds. Indigenous species on developed property: 12"+. Native species on undeveloped: 6"+. Riparian species: 6"+ (4"+ multi-trunk). Contact Planning & Building at (925) 284-1976.
Get an arborist assessment
For protected trees, a written report from an ISA Certified Arborist is required documenting species, size, health, and removal justification. Dead/dying trees need arborist confirmation but are exempt from fees and replacement.
Submit the tree permit application
File the application with the Lafayette Planning & Building Department. Include the arborist report, site photos, and proposed replacement plan. Applications are available at lovelafayette.org.
City review and site evaluation
Planning staff reviews the application and may conduct a site visit. The 2025 ordinance provides expedited processing for imminent hazard and defensible space situations.
Receive approval and conditions
Approved permits include conditions for replacement planting (lower ratios under the 2025 ordinance). Defensible space removals may have simplified conditions.
Plant replacement trees
Plant approved replacement species within the specified timeframe. The 2025 ordinance reduced replacement ratios from previous levels. The city may inspect for compliance.
What Does Tree Work Cost in Lafayette?
Lafayette's tree protection requirements and local terrain affect removal costs:
- Small tree removal (under 25 ft): $800–$2,000
- Medium tree removal (25–50 ft): $2,000–$5,000
- Large oak removal (hillside, 50+ ft): $5,000–$14,000
- Protected tree with permit: $7,000–$13,000+
- Stump grinding: $200–$500 per stump
Contact Information
Frequently Asked Questions
What changed in Lafayette's 2025 tree ordinance?
The City Council adopted Ord. 694 on November 25, 2024. Changes include clearer thresholds, lower replacement tree ratios, stronger defensible space provisions, new penalties based on tree diameter, and expedited permits for imminent hazards.
What trees are protected in Lafayette?
Indigenous species (8 oak species, bay, buckeye, madrone) on developed property at 12" diameter. Native species on undeveloped property at 6", other species at 12". Riparian species within 30 feet of top-of-bank at 6" single (or any component trunk 4"+). Also protected at any size: ROW/street trees, downtown commercial, restricted-ridgeline natives, and development-condition or replacement trees.
Do dead trees need a permit to remove?
There is no published self-help exemption. A permit application is required for all protected trees, including dead ones. An ISA Certified Arborist report documenting death or decline strengthens the application. Contact Planning & Building at (925) 284-1976.
What's the penalty for illegal tree removal in Lafayette?
Strict-liability civil fines based on trunk diameter (6-1709(d)): $1,000 (under 12 inches), $2,500 (12-24 inches), $5,000 (24-36 inches), $7,500 (36-48 inches), $10,000 (over 48 inches) for the first offense. Plus stop-work orders, a 5-year development restriction, and mandatory replacement planting with no in-lieu option.
Which fire district handles tree ordinance notices in Lafayette?
Fire-district notices under the tree ordinance route through the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District (ConFire), not Moraga-Orinda FD, per section 6-1705. Contact ConFire for defensible space requirements.
Related reading for Lafayette residents
Need a tree assessment or removal permit help?
An ISA Certified Arborist report strengthens your Lafayette permit application and ensures compliant removal with proper replacement planning.