Do I Need a Tree Permit in Pleasant Hill?
Pleasant Hill protects native oak and indigenous trees at 9 inches diameter, and non-native trees (excluding eucalyptus and palms) at 18 inches diameter under Municipal Code Chapter 18.100 (Ord. 978, adopted 11/17/2025, recodified from 18.50). Heritage-enrolled native/indigenous trees 16 inches and larger cannot be removed except for hazard or disease. Every removal application requires an ISA Certified Arborist report.
The Short Answer: Yes, Permits Are Required
Pleasant Hill protects native oak and indigenous trees at 9 inches diameter, and non-native trees (excluding eucalyptus and palms) at 18 inches diameter, measured at 54 inches above ground under Municipal Code Chapter 18.100 (Ord. 978, adopted 11/17/2025). Every application requires a certified arborist letter report addressing health/condition, removal rationale, feasibility of alternatives, and replacement recommendations.
The zoning administrator reviews applications considering tree health, visual significance, habitat value, and safety factors. Pleasant Hill's flatter terrain and mid-century development mean many mature trees originally planted in the 1950s-60s now reach protected size.
Lower Fire Risk Than Hillside Neighbors
Pleasant Hill has less wildland-urban interface exposure than Walnut Creek or Lafayette. The Contra Costa County Fire Protection District (ConFire) still enforces defensible space where applicable, but most Pleasant Hill properties face standard rather than improved fire risk. Some properties near Grayson Creek corridor or bordering open areas may have moderate fire considerations.
What Trees Are Protected in Pleasant Hill?
Pleasant Hill's tree protection covers:
- Native oak/indigenous trees — 9"+ diameter at 54" (4.5 feet) above ground
- Non-native trees — 18"+ diameter (excluding eucalyptus and palms)
- Heritage-enrolled trees — Enrolled native/indigenous trees 16"+ diameter (no removal except hazard/disease)
Contra Costa County Comparison: Pleasant Hill vs. Neighbors
| Requirement | Pleasant Hill | Walnut Creek | Concord |
|---|---|---|---|
| Protected tree size | 9" native/indigenous; 18" non-native | 9" all species | Varies |
| Review authority | Zoning Administrator | Community Development | Planning |
| Arborist report | Required for all apps | Required for all apps | May be required |
| Factors considered | Health, visual, habitat, safety | General Plan alignment | Varies |
| Fire district | ConFire | ConFire | ConFire |
The Permit Process: Step by Step
Determine if your tree is protected
Measure trunk diameter at 4.5 feet above ground. Native oaks and indigenous trees at 9 inches or larger, and non-native trees (excluding eucalyptus and palms) at 18 inches or larger, are protected under Chapter 18.100. Contact the Planning Division to confirm your tree's status.
Get a certified arborist report
Every tree removal application requires a letter report from an ISA Certified Arborist addressing: health/condition of the tree, rationale for removal, feasibility of alternatives to removal, and replacement recommendations.
Submit the removal permit application
File with the Pleasant Hill Planning Division. Include the arborist report, site plan, photos, and proposed replacement plan. The application goes to the zoning administrator for review.
Zoning administrator review
The zoning administrator evaluates the application considering tree health, visual significance, habitat value, safety, and other factors. The review typically takes 2-3 weeks.
Receive decision and conditions
If approved, you'll receive conditions for replacement planting. Schedule removal with a licensed, insured contractor. Keep the permit on site during work.
Plant replacement trees
Plant replacement trees as specified in the permit conditions. Maintain until established. The city may verify compliance.
What Does Tree Work Cost in Pleasant Hill?
Pleasant Hill's tree protection requirements and local terrain affect removal costs:
- Small tree removal: $600–$1,500
- Medium tree removal (25–50 ft): $1,500–$4,000
- Large oak removal (50+ ft): $4,000–$8,000
- Protected tree with permit: $5,000–$10,000+
- Stump grinding: $175–$400
Contact Information
Frequently Asked Questions
What trees are protected in Pleasant Hill?
Native oak and indigenous trees at 9 inches diameter or larger, and non-native trees (excluding eucalyptus and palms) at 18 inches or larger, measured at 54 inches (4.5 feet) above ground. Heritage-enrolled native/indigenous trees at 16 inches or larger cannot be removed except for hazard or disease. Penalties reach up to $1,000 per tree or replacement value. Replacement: native removals require at least two 15-gallon trees; non-native require at least one 15-gallon tree.
Do I always need an arborist report?
Yes. Every tree removal application in Pleasant Hill requires a letter report from a certified arborist addressing health/condition, removal rationale, alternatives, and replacement recommendations. This is not optional.
Who reviews tree removal permits in Pleasant Hill?
The zoning administrator reviews applications, considering tree health, visual significance, habitat value, and safety. For complex cases or appeals, other city decision-making bodies may be involved.
How much does tree removal cost in Pleasant Hill?
Small trees run $600-$1,500, medium $1,500-$4,000, and large oaks $4,000-$8,000. Protected tree removals with permit and replacement planting run $5,000-$10,000+. Pleasant Hill's flatter terrain keeps costs moderate compared to hillside cities.
Is Pleasant Hill in a fire zone?
Most of Pleasant Hill has lower fire risk than hillside neighbors like Walnut Creek or Lafayette. The Contra Costa County Fire Protection District (ConFire) still enforces defensible space where applicable, particularly near open areas and the Grayson Creek corridor.
Related reading for Pleasant Hill residents
Need a tree assessment or removal permit help?
An ISA Certified Arborist report strengthens your Pleasant Hill permit application and ensures compliant removal with proper replacement planning.