Do I Need a Tree Permit in Sunnyvale?
Sunnyvale protects any tree with 38 inches or more of trunk circumference (about 12.1 inches diameter) — one species-neutral threshold for all trees (Chapter 19.94). Penalties range from $5,000 to $50,000 per tree (19.94.160). File at least 10 working days before proposed removal.
Does my tree need a permit?
Measure the trunk circumference to get an instant answer based on Sunnyvale's ordinance (Chapter 19.94). Same threshold for all species.
Wrap a measuring tape around the trunk at 4.5 feet above ground to get circumference. Protected threshold is 38 inches circumference (~12.1 inches diameter). For multi-trunk trees: any one trunk at 38 inches, or all trunks totaling 113 inches.
What trees are protected in Sunnyvale?
Sunnyvale uses a single, species-neutral threshold under Chapter 19.94 (Tree Preservation): any tree with a trunk circumference of 38 inches or more (about 12.1 inches diameter) at 4.5 feet above ground is protected. There is no separate heritage category (19.96 landmarks are separate) and no oak-specific threshold. Street trees are covered separately under Chapter 13.16.
| Category | Protected at | Notes | Penalty |
|---|---|---|---|
| All species (single trunk) | ≥38″ circumference (~12.1″ dia) | One threshold for every species, at 4.5 ft above ground | $5,000–$50,000 per tree |
| Multi-trunk trees | Any trunk ≥38″ circ or all trunks totaling ≥113″ circ | Per 19.94.030 | $5,000–$50,000 per tree |
| Street trees | Any size | Chapter 13.16; PW Parks & Trees (408) 730-7506 | City replacement costs |
Not sure if your tree qualifies?
Wrap a tape measure around the trunk at 4.5 feet above ground. If it reads 38 inches or more, the tree is protected. An arborist consultation ($150–$300) is far cheaper than violation penalties. Call the One-Stop Permit Center at (408) 730-7444.
How to get a tree removal permit in Sunnyvale
Sunnyvale's permit process runs through the Community Development One-Stop Permit Center. File at least 10 working days before proposed removal.
Measure your tree
Wrap a tape around the trunk at 4.5 feet above ground. If the circumference is 38 inches or more (~12.1 inches diameter), the tree is protected. For multi-trunk trees: any one trunk at 38 inches circumference, or all trunks totaling 113 inches circumference (19.94.030).
Get an arborist report
A certified arborist report reduces the permit fee from $406.35 to $224.70 and strengthens your application. Budget $300–$600. The report must document condition, reason for removal, and why treatment or preservation is not feasible.
Submit to the One-Stop Permit Center
File the permit application with Community Development at (408) 730-7444 at least 10 working days before the proposed removal. Pay the $406.35 fee ($224.70 with arborist report). Include arborist report, site plan, and photos.
City review
Community Development reviews the application. The city decides usually within 2 weeks. There is no self-help exemption — even dead or hazardous trees require a permit before removal.
Receive permit and schedule work
Once approved, hire a licensed tree service (CSLB C-49). Replacement planting may be required: 24-inch box minimum, or in-lieu fee of $530–$2,120. PG&E-related removals are free.
What happens if you remove a tree without a permit?
$5,000–$50,000 per tree (19.94.160)
Penalties are tiered by severity: $5,000–$25,000 per tree for substantial injury or damage, and $10,000–$50,000 per tree for destruction or improper removal. The city also recovers its expenses and attorneys' fees, and can place liens on the property.
A permit costs $406.35 (less with an arborist report) and takes about 2 weeks. The penalties for skipping it are orders of magnitude higher. There is no self-help exemption — file at least 10 working days before any proposed removal.
Sunnyvale Community Development — contact and resources
Call before you apply
One-Stop Permit Center staff at (408) 730-7444 can often tell you whether your tree is likely protected before you spend money on an arborist report. Worth a 10-minute call. An arborist report also cuts the permit fee nearly in half.
Frequently asked questions
Does pruning require a permit in Sunnyvale?
Standard pruning following ISA standards does not require a permit. However, street tree pruning requires a permit (minor hand-tool pruning of branches under 1 inch is exempt). Crown reduction, topping, or removal of major limbs on protected trees requires city approval.
What if the tree is dead or hazardous?
There is no self-help exemption in Sunnyvale. Even dead or hazardous trees require a permit application filed at least 10 working days before proposed removal. Contact the One-Stop Permit Center at (408) 730-7444 for current processing.
How does the multi-trunk rule work?
A multi-trunk tree is protected if any single trunk measures 38 inches circumference or more, or if all trunks combined total 113 inches circumference or more (19.94.030). Measure each trunk separately at 4.5 feet above ground.
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