 A Tree Removal Permit is required for removal of any tree located on a single family or duplex lot that has a trunk of 56 inches or greater in circumference (or has multiple trunks that total 56 inches or greater) measured at two feet above grade. The permit process differs for removal of live and dead trees.
If your tree is located in the park strip between the public sidewalk and the street, it is probably a “street tree”. On streets where there is no park strip, street trees may be located within 10 feet of the curb on the front yard side of the sidewalk. Click here for information on permits for street trees.
Live Tree Removal Permit
Applications for removal of a live tree must be submitted in person at the Development Services Center on the first or second floors of City Hall. No appointment is necessary. A list of what you need to submit, including a fee to cover the cost of mailing hearing notices, is included on the Live Tree Removal Permit Application (PDF).
Live Tree Permit Process:
- Applicant submits Tree Removal Permit Application.
- City staff assigned to the application contacts applicant within the first 3-5 days.
- Staff reviews the application based on the criteria included in San Jose Municipal Code Chapter 13.32 (PDF) and may request submittal of a report prepared by a certified arborist assessing the reasons for removing the tree.
- Staff informs the applicant of the preliminary recommendation on the permit.
- Staff sets a public hearing and mails notices of the hearing to residents and owners of property surrounding the site.
- Following the public hearing, the Director of Planning approves or denies the Permit, beginning a ten-day appeal period.
- The Director’s decision can be appealed to the Planning Commission by the applicant or a neighbor. Very few applications are appealed.
Dead Tree Removal Permit
Applications for removal of a dead tree must be submitted by appointment at the Development Services Center on the first or second floors of City Hall. To make an appointment, call (408) 535-3555. If all of the required information is submitted, including documentation that the tree is dead, the permit can be approved while you wait. There is no fee for this permit. A list of what you need to submit is included on the Dead Tree Removal Permit Application (PDF).
Getting to City Hall - Parking
Enter the City Hall Parking Garage on 6th Street between Santa Clara and San Fernando Streets. Garage is open 7:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m., Monday-Friday. When visiting the Permit Center:
- Try to park in the “Blue” area
- Take the elevator marked “Tower” to the 1st Floor
- Proceed straight ahead for 1st Floor Services
- For 2nd Floor services, turn left out of the parking elevator and take the elevators located around the corner
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