Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Atherton?

In most cases yes. Atherton's Heritage Tree ordinance (Municipal Code Chapter 8.10) is one of the broadest on the Peninsula: Native oaks (valley, coast live, blue oak): protected anywhere on the lot at 48 inches in circumference - about 15 inches across Any tree outside the main buildable area at the same size Exempt species: acacia, tree of heaven, mimosa, and all eucalyptus Applications go through the Building Department, the town can require a certified arborist report at the owner's expense, and contested removals go to the Planning Commission. The ordinance also regulates damage, not just removal - excessive pruning, topping, grading, and paving over more than half the root zone all count. We prepare the report and run the permit process as a routine part of every Atherton job.

In most cases yes. Atherton’s Heritage Tree ordinance (Municipal Code Chapter 8.10) is one of the broadest on the Peninsula:

Native oaks (valley, coast live, blue oak): protected anywhere on the lot at 48 inches in circumference – about 15 inches across
Any tree outside the main buildable area at the same size
Exempt species: acacia, tree of heaven, mimosa, and all eucalyptus

Applications go through the Building Department, the town can require a certified arborist report at the owner’s expense, and contested removals go to the Planning Commission. The ordinance also regulates damage, not just removal – excessive pruning, topping, grading, and paving over more than half the root zone all count. We prepare the report and run the permit process as a routine part of every Atherton job.