This page is updated every Monday. On weeks when Monday is an observed holiday, the page will be updated on Tuesday of that week.
 
In accordance with Public Works Code, Article 16, Section 806, a written appeal may be made in regards to the removal of a tree within 15 or 30 days of the posting date (depending on the posting period).  Appeals must state the grounds for the appeal and may be sent to urbanforestry@sfdpw.org or mailed to San Francisco Public Works Bureau of Urban Forestry, 49 South Van Ness Ave, Ste 1000, San Francisco, CA 94103.
 
Our aim at Public Works is for San Francisco to have a thriving, robust urban forest. 
 
That is why we always look for all alternatives before choosing tree removal or approving a property owner's request for removal. However, removals are sometimes necessary to protect public safety, first and foremost, and to navigate the many challenges of growing trees in an urban setting.
 
We always look to see if a street tree is replantable in its current location, or closest available site.  If we have explored all options and cannot replant a street tree, that means the basin is not in compliance with Public Works Director's Order 187,246, as well as with the Minimum Guidelines which can be found on the Plant a Street Tree page.  Some common considerations that limit street tree replanting include sidewalk width, proximity to any existing infrastructure (street lights, traffic lights, stop signs, bus stops, etc.) and conflicts with any underground utilities. 
 
If Location IS replantable, tree will be replaced unless conflict with underground utilities is found. If conflict is found, replacement will be relocated or added to deferred replacement report if replacement location not found within 120 days.
 
If Location is NOT replantable, Replacement will be relocated or added to deferred replacement report if replacement location not found within 120 days.
 
Please note, photos and descriptions will be removed once the posting period has expired. Contact urbanforestry@sfdpw.org or 628-652-TREE (8733) with questions or for more information.
 
 

Active Appeals at the Board of Appeals

AgendaDistrictAddressAppeal No.Hearing DateDescriptionPermit and Hearing Nos.Links
     
 
  

 

  • District 1

    Site: 1,2,3

    Reason(s) for Tree Removal: Permit#798737 Unhealthy yuccas are not thriving and each will be replaced with a much more beneficial tree with healthier canopy.

    Posting Period: 03/31/25 - 04/30/25

  • District 2

    Site: 1

    Reason(s) for Tree Removal: The tree asset has developed multiple stems and exhibits a weak, unbalanced growth pattern, resulting in poor structural integrity. Its roots have extended from the sidewalk into the adjacent property, infiltrating the nearby garage and causing damage to the concrete. The tree's growth is unsustainable and poses a risk to the surrounding structures. Location IS replantable.
     

    Posting Period: 03/10/25 - 04/09/25

  • District 2

    Site: 1

    Reason(s) for Tree Removal: Tree was struck by delivery truck and has been destabilized.Location is replantable. 

    Posting Period: 03/24/25 - 04/23/25

  • District 2

    Site: 2

    Reason(s) for Tree Removal: Tree in significant decline with lean over sidewalk. Location is replantable and will be planted by applicant. Permit 79872
     

    Posting Period: 03/10/25 - 04/09/25

  • District 2

    Site: 1

    Reason(s) for Tree Removal: Tree is in severe decline, likely due to heart rot common in this species. Severely thin and chlorotic crown. Location IS replantable and tree will be replaced by property owner.

    Posting Period: 03/24/25 - 04/23/25

  • District 5

    Site: 1,2

    Reason(s) for Tree Removal: Permit 797642. Two (2) significant treeson private property to be removed without replacement. Trees are growing in small containers next to the foundation and bay windows. Trees are damaging the house and sewer. Limited planter space is inadequte location for a tree.

    Posting Period: 03/17/25 - 04/16/25

  • District 7

    Site: 3

    Reason(s) for Tree Removal: Removal of three (3) street trees with replacement nearby by Public Works, not within the same Ludlow Alley public right-of-way due to inaccessibility of the site. Replacement trees will be planted a few blocks away.  The three trees are bluegum eucalyptus trees (Eucalyptus globulus) and have low vigor with very poor structure. The subject trees are also placed directly on top of the City's sewer main, and this public right-of-way was created to accomodate the placement and maintenance of the sewer main in this location, which drops from Casitas Ave down to Lansdale and Dalewood.

    Posting Period: 04/07/25 - 05/07/25

     

  • District 8

    Site

    Reason(s) for Tree Removal: Significant tree has outgrown planting area. Removal without replacement due to lack of space.
     

    Posting Period: 03/10/25 - 04/09/25

  • District 9

    Site: 1

    Reason(s) for Tree Removal: Sewer lateral replacement is expected to destabilize tree. Location is not replantable. 

    Posting Period: 03/17/25 - 04/16/25

  • District 9

    Site: 1

    Reason(s) for Tree Removal: Construction project will require removal of tree. Repair and pouring of new foundation will be at the base of the tree, as the tree is in private property and within the footprint of the building. Structure is poor with a significant lean and history of topping. Tree has appraised for less than the standard in-lieu fee. Tree will be replaced by applicant with a new Significant tree, species to be approved by BUF. Permit 796451. Due to placement at the current foundation, the tree appraised for less than the in-lieu fee.

    Posting Period: 04/07/25 - 05/07/25

  • District 10

    Site: 1

    Reason(s) for Tree Removal: Removal of one (1) street tree with replacement. Property is under construction. Sidewalk repairs, driveway repairs, and relocation of gas line cannot be performed without pruning of major roots located within the tree's critical root zone. If these roots were to be pruned, the health of the tree will decline and destabilize the tree. Permit 798328. The tree can be replaced. Improper placement of large stature conifer species at the base of property.  Due to placement, the tree appraised for less than the in-lieu fee.

    Posting Period: 04/07/25 - 05/07/25