Remove a Street Tree
| NOTE: If a removal permit is approved, the removal of the tree is expected to be completed by the applicant and all costs associated with the removal are the responsibility of the applicant, including all costs associated with the purchase and planting of the replacement tree. |
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A tree removal permit is required to remove a street tree in San Francisco. Any tree in the public right-of-way is considered a street tree.
New legislation enacted in 2007 requires that a permit be issued to remove any Significant Tree. As defined in the Public Works Code, Significant Trees are located on private property, but within 10 feet of the public right-of-way and also meet any one of the following size requirements:
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20 feet or greater in height
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15 feet or greater canopy width
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12 inches or greater diameter of trunk measured at 4.5 feet above grade
These trees are granted the same protections as street trees, and a permit is required before any Significant Tree can be removed.
To apply for a permit, complete the Online Tree Application or print out and complete the following hardcopy application: Tree Removal Permit Process and Application (PDF)
Return the completed and signed application form including number and name of the replacement tree species, and include the applicable non-refundable fee made payable to San Francisco Public Works:
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$475 |
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$957 |
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$1,273 |
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$1,913 |
Other documents that may be required:
Include proof of damage caused by trees, such as paid invoices for repair. Please note that even if a tree has caused sidewalk, sewer or other property damage, removal may not be required.
If the removal is related to new construction, include site plans accurately showing tree locations as well as your building permit number.
Removal Permit Process:
Public Works inspectors evaluate trees for removal.
If we recommend tree removal, a notice will be posted on the tree for 30 days. If objections to the removal are received, a public hearing will be scheduled. If we deny removal, the applicant may request a public hearing. After the hearing, a hearing officer will make a recommendation to the Public Works Director, who will issue a final decision. The Director's decision may be appealable to the Board of Appeals.
Additional Recommendations:
An International Society of Arboriculture Certified Arborist should evaluate the tree and provide a written report. Certified arborists can be found by searching online for "Tree Services" or at the International Society of Arboriculture.
Use a licensed and insured arborist or other contractor for any tree work.
For each tree removed, a replacement tree is required.
It is recommended that permittees carry adequate liability insurance.
For additional information contact us at:
San Francisco Public Works
Bureau of Urban Forestry
49 South Van Ness Avenue, Suite 1000 (Map)
San Francisco, CA 94103
628-652-TREE (8733)
urbanforestry@sfdpw.org
Mission
San Francisco Public Works is one of the largest and most complex municipal operations in the City, with a 1,600-member workforce and a $384 million annual operating budget. The department's active capital project portfolio exceeds $3 billion. As one of San Francisco oldest City departments, it is also one of the most forward-thinking. Keeping San Francisco beautiful, safe and sustainable.
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