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Heritage Tree and Street Tree Permits
The City of San Mateo regulates specific tree work including:
- All work performed on trees located in the public right of way (i.e. Street Trees)
- The removal and pruning of Heritage Trees on private property
It is important to know if your planned tree work will require a Tree Work Permit from the Department of Parks & Recreation. It is unlawful to perform the following types of tree work without a City-issued permit:
- Removal of a Heritage Tree
- Pruning more than 25% of the crown or existing foliage of a Heritage Tree
- Removal of any roots within 6 times the trunk diameter of a Heritage Tree
- Removing or pruning any roots or foliage of any Street Tree
The instructions below will guide you through the permit process. Please begin by filling out a Tree Work Application.
Permit Application Process
Before filling out the application, it is important to identify what type of tree(s) you are working with.
- Find out if your tree is considered a Heritage Tree
- Find out if your tree is considered a Street Tree
Permit Application Instructions
Please read the following instructions carefully to avoid any improper use and/or fines:
Step 1: |
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Step 2: |
Submit the application to the Parks Department by email, mail, or drop off.
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Step 3: |
The Managing Arborist will inspect the applicant's site to confirm if the permit request can be granted. |
Step 4: |
All property owners and renters whose properties surround the applicant's property will be notified in writing of the arborist’s decision to grant a permit and will have ten days to appeal. |
Step 5: |
After ten days (or when any appeals are resolved) the property owner can pick up the permit at the Parks and Recreation counter at 2001 Pacific Blvd.
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Trees - Permits/Arborist
Physical Address
2001 Pacific Blvd.
San Mateo, CA 94403
Phone: (650) 522-7420Fax: (650) 522-7421Emergency Phone: (650) 522-7350
Hours
Monday - Friday 8:00am - 4:30pm
Starting June 1, 2023
Open for walk-in assistance: Monday through Friday
8:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. or by appointment from 1:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.