Do I Need a Tree Permit in Mountain View?
Mountain View has the most protective tree threshold in the Bay Area — just 12 inches circumference (about 4 inches diameter) for oaks, redwoods, and cedars. Even young trees of these species are protected. Here's what you need to know.
Does my tree need a permit?
Select your tree type and measure the trunk to get an instant answer based on Mountain View's ordinance (City Code Ch. 32, Art. II).
Measure circumference at 54 inches above grade. Wrap a flexible tape around the trunk.
What trees are protected in Mountain View?
Mountain View's 12-inch circumference threshold for oaks, redwoods, and cedars is the lowest on the Peninsula — meaning relatively young trees of these species (sometimes just 5–8 years old) are protected. All other species are protected at 48 inches circumference (approximately 15 inches diameter). The City Arborist has review authority over every heritage tree removal request, and the city publishes a Tree Technical Manual (2022) for residents.
| Category | Protected at | Notes | Penalty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oaks (Quercus spp.) | ≥12″ circumference | approximately 4″ diameter — very low threshold | Max $1,000 + restitution |
| Coast Redwood | ≥12″ circumference | approximately 4″ diameter — young trees protected | Max $1,000 + restitution |
| Cedars (Cedrus spp.) | ≥12″ circumference | approximately 4″ diameter | Max $1,000 + restitution |
| All other heritage trees | ≥48″ circumference | approximately 15″ diameter at 54″ above grade | Appraised value + restoration |
| Street trees | Any size | City-managed by Public Works | City replacement + penalties |
Not sure if your tree qualifies?
Measure first. An arborist consultation ($150–$300) is far cheaper than violation penalties. Call Community Services — Urban Forestry at (650) 903-6273 — they can often tell you on the phone whether your tree is likely protected.
How to get a tree removal permit in Mountain View
Mountain View's permit process runs through Community Services — Urban Forestry. Here's the step-by-step sequence:
Measure the circumference
Wrap a flexible tape around the trunk at 54 inches above grade. For oaks, redwoods, and cedars: 12 inches circumference (approximately 4 inches diameter) triggers protection. For all other species: 48 inches circumference (approximately 15 inches diameter).
Hire a certified arborist
An arborist report is required. The report must document the tree's condition, reason for removal, and whether alternatives are feasible. The City Arborist reviews every heritage tree application personally.
Submit to Community Services — Urban Forestry
File the Heritage Tree Removal Application with Community Services — Urban Forestry at (650) 903-6273. Pay the permit fee ($178 first tree + $61 each additional). Include arborist report, site plan, and photos.
City Arborist review
The City Arborist reviews the application and may visit the property. Expect about 45 days for Urban Forestry applications. Development-related permits through Planning take 60–90 days.
Receive permit and schedule work
Once approved, hire a licensed tree service (CSLB C-49). Replacement planting is required per the City Arborist's specification. The permit must be on-site during work.
What happens if you remove a tree without a permit?
Misdemeanor (max $1,000) + restitution and 2:1 replacement
Unauthorized heritage tree removal in Mountain View is a misdemeanor carrying a maximum fine of $1,000 plus restitution. Restitution includes 24-inch box replacement trees or ISA-appraised in-lieu value, plus a post-removal permit. The standard replacement ratio is 2:1. The City Arborist actively enforces violations and investigates neighbor reports.
A permit costs $178 and takes about 45 days. The penalties for skipping it are orders of magnitude higher. There's no scenario where unpermitted removal saves money.
Mountain View Community Services — Urban Forestry — contact and resources
Call before you apply
Community Services — Urban Forestry staff at (650) 903-6273 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 Mountain View?
Pruning that follows ISA standards and doesn't alter the tree's basic structure does not typically require a permit. Crown reduction, topping, or significant structural changes on heritage trees require city approval. The Tree Technical Manual provides pruning guidelines.
What if the tree is dead or hazardous?
Dead trees are exempt from the permit requirement per Section 32.27(b)(6), after City Arborist determination. Living hazardous trees are NOT exempt — you must secure the area and apply for a permit. Contact Community Services — Urban Forestry at (650) 903-6273 and provide photos. The City Arborist must confirm the tree is dead before the exemption applies.
Why is the oak/redwood/cedar threshold so low?
Mountain View deliberately set the threshold at 12 inches circumference (approximately 4 inches diameter) for oaks, redwoods, and cedars to protect these slow-growing native species from their earliest established years. A coast live oak can take 10–15 years to reach just 4 inches in diameter. By comparison, Palo Alto's oak threshold is 11.5 inches diameter — roughly 36 inches circumference — nearly 3× higher.
Related reading for Mountain View tree owners
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