General
Q: How do I know if I have a street tree?
A: Street trees are in the public right of way, which in most cases are located in a planting strip between the sidewalk and the curb. In some neighborhoods there is no planting strip and the sidewalk is located directly adjacent to the curb. In that case, a street tree is located behind the sidewalk, but still usually within 10 feet of the curb.
Q: How do I report a limb or tree that has fallen and is blocking the street/sidewalk?
A: The City of San José will respond to complaints of limbs/trees that are down if they are blocking a street or sidewalk and present an immediate hazard. To report a limb or tree that is blocking the street or sidewalk, please call (408) 277-4373.
Pruning
Q: Will the City of San José prune my street tree?
A: The budget situation for the City of San José currently does not provide funding for the pruning of street trees, unless if it is associated with other projects such as the clearance pruning of street trees in preparation for major resurfacing of the neighborhood streets. According to the San José Municipal Code Section 13.28.190 (PDF) passed by the City Council decades ago, the maintenance of the street tree is the responsibility of the property owner.
Q: What if I can’t afford to have my street tree pruned?
A: The City of San José does have a low-income Senior/Handicapped Hardship program which provides pruning or removal/replacement services to those property owners that can provide adequate documentation (Federal or State income tax returns, Social Security statements, etc) which verify that they do not exceed the income level.
Q: Do I need a permit to prune my street tree?
A: Yes, pruning permits are required for street trees. You may request a pruning permit by calling the City of San José at (408) 277-2762 or by submitting a pruning permit request.
Q: How much does a pruning permit cost?
A: There is currently no fee for a street tree pruning permit. The permit is used to ensure that all trimming is done in a manner consistent with industry standards and which promotes proper tree development.
Q: Do I need to return the permit when the work is complete?
A: Yes, once the permit is returned, an inspector will be dispatched to ensure that all conditions of the permit have been met and that the work is consistent with accepted standards.
Removal & Replacement
Q: What conditions will qualify my street tree for a removal permit?
A: The San José Municipal Code Section 13.28.130 (PDF) specifies those criteria that the Arborist’s Office will use to evaluate whether a permit can be granted to replace your street tree.
Q: How long does it take to typically get a street tree removal permit?
A: Once you return your street tree removal permit application, inspectors from the Arborist’s office will normally be out within a week to evaluate the condition of your street tree. If they determine that the criteria in the Municipal Code have been met, a posting notice will be attached to your tree, as well as door hangers placed on the homes within 150’ of the tree. The posting will be in place for 14 days, allowing time for other residents of San José who might object to the removal of the tree to file a written letter of protest. In no one protests, then the permit is typically granted within a few days. If someone does file a valid protest, then an informal hearing is scheduled within a few weeks to further discuss and review the matter.
Q: How much does a removal permit cost?
A: There is currently no cost for a removal and replacement permit.
Q: Do I have to replace my street tree once it is removed?
A: In most cases the answer is yes. Current City of San José standards establish that at least one tree be planted in front of interior single-family lots and three trees be planted on corner single-family lots. In some cases, there will be obstructions (close proximity to street lights, fire hydrants, utility vaults, stop signs, etc.) which may prevent the replanting of a new tree.
Q: Can I replant a different species than the one listed on my permit?
A: You can contact the Arborist’s Office (arborist@sanjoseca.gov) to see if there are alternative species that will also do well at your location. The City Council has directed that shade trees rather than small trees, where there is adequate space, to be used as street trees wherever possible to help combat the urban heat island effect. To replant with a species that is different from that which was originally specified on your permit, you must submit a written request (email is fine) which clearly states which alternate species you prefer. If the change in species is approved, your permit will be modified to meet your request.
Q: Do I need to return the permit when the work is complete?
A: Yes. Once the permit is returned, an inspector will be dispatched to ensure that all conditions of the permit have been met and that the work is consistent with accepted standards.
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