Palo Alto Tree Service — Removal, Trimming & More
Need a tree removed, trimmed or pruned in Palo Alto? Palo Alto Tree Pros connects you with licensed local tree professionals who know the city's tree protection rules. We also serve Menlo Park, Los Altos and Atherton.
How do I get a free estimate?
Fill out this short form and tell us about your tree. A licensed local tree professional will follow up.
What tree services are available in Palo Alto?
Every common residential tree service is available: removal, trimming, pruning, stump grinding and 24/7 emergency response. Choose a service to learn what it involves, what affects the cost, and whether a city permit could apply.
Permit-aware removal of hazardous, dead or problem trees.Tree trimming
Clearance from roofs, driveways, views and service drops.Tree pruning
Health-focused pruning: deadwood, thinning, young-tree structure.Stump grinding
Grind stumps below grade so you can replant or re-landscape.Emergency tree service
Storm damage, split trunks and trees on structures.Palo Alto permit guide
Protected trees, arborist reports and how to apply.
Why do Palo Alto trees need professional care?
Many Palo Alto trees are legally protected, so the wrong cut can cost far more than the job itself. Since the city's updated Tree Protection Ordinance took effect on May 1, 2024, protection covers much more than the famous oaks.
Protected native species
Coast live oak, valley oak, blue oak, California black oak, bigleaf maple and California incense cedar are protected at 11.5 inches in trunk diameter or more. Coast redwood is protected at 18 inches or more. Diameter is measured 54 inches above natural grade.
Mature trees, street trees and heritage trees
Most other trees 15 inches or larger are protected too, except for listed invasive and high-water-use species such as blue gum eucalyptus and palms. All street and public trees, and council-designated heritage trees, are also protected.
Protected trees can't be removed without a permit backed by an arborist's report. Owners must also post a notice at least seven days before most pruning of a protected tree. Civil penalties for an unpermitted removal can reach $10,000 per tree or more under PAMC 8.10.110. A professional who works in Palo Alto every week will check a tree's status before anyone starts cutting. Read the Palo Alto tree permit guide for the details.
Which neighborhoods and nearby cities are covered?
All of Palo Alto is covered, plus the neighboring cities of Menlo Park, Los Altos and Atherton. Each city has its own tree rules. The permit guidance on this site applies to Palo Alto, so check with your own city before working on a large tree in Menlo Park, Los Altos or Atherton.
How do I get started?
Fill out the free estimate form with a short description of the tree and what you want done. A local professional will follow up to schedule a visit. If a tree has already fallen on a house, car or power line, see emergency tree service first.