It depends on the species, size, and jurisdiction. Many Peninsula cities protect certain tree species and require permits before significant pruning or removal – Menlo Park, Atherton, Hillsborough, and Burlingame each have their own requirements. Our ISA Certified Arborist is familiar with the rules across all the communities we serve and will advise on what approvals are needed before any work is planned. If an arborist report is required to support a permit application, we provide that as part of our service.

Quick self-check before you call: measure the trunk at chest height. Under about 9 to 10 inches in diameter, most local cities do not regulate the work; above that, verify first – fines for unpermitted work on protected trees run into the thousands.