Tree Removal in Palo Alto, CA
Yes, many Palo Alto trees need a city permit before removal. Native oaks and other listed native species are protected at 11.5 inches in diameter or more. Coast redwoods are protected at 18 inches or more, and most other trees at 15 inches or more. All street trees and designated heritage trees are protected regardless of size. Diameter is measured 54 inches above natural grade.
A permitted removal usually requires replacement planting. Where replacement can't happen on site, the city's 2026 in-lieu fee is $1,250 per 24-inch box replacement tree.
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.
When is tree removal necessary?
Removal is necessary when a tree is dead, hazardous or failing and can't be fixed by pruning, cabling or other treatment. For protected trees, Palo Alto only allows removal outside of construction for specific reasons, documented in an arborist report:
- The tree is dead, hazardous, or a public nuisance under PAMC 8.04.050.
- It is crowding or harming an adjacent protected tree.
- It is in decline or doesn't fit "right tree in the right place" principles.
- It is damaging the foundation or eaves of a home, or required covered parking.
Warning signs worth an inspection include deep trunk cracks, fungal conks at the base, a sudden new lean, heaving soil on one side, large dead limbs over the roof, and roots lifting foundations or hardscape. Removal for a view or more light alone generally doesn't qualify for a protected tree. Unprotected trees, such as exempt species or trees below the size thresholds, don't need a protected-tree permit. Even then, work near a street tree's drip line needs a Public Works permit.
What does the tree removal process look like?
A professional removal moves from assessment to permit to cleanup, and the permit step is what sets the timeline in Palo Alto.
- Assessment: species, trunk diameter at 54 inches, condition, targets underneath (house, fence, wires) and access.
- Permit check: if the tree is protected, a certified arborist prepares the report and the application goes to Urban Forestry, either through the city's Online Permitting Services portal or by email.
- Work plan: crews take the tree down in sections with ropes and rigging when it stands over structures. A crane may be used for very large trees on tight lots.
- Removal and cleanup: limbs are chipped and wood is hauled away or cut to length if you want to keep it.
- Stump and replanting: the stump can be ground below grade, and any required replacement tree is planted.
What affects the cost of tree removal in Palo Alto?
Cost depends mostly on the tree's size, how close it is to buildings or lines, and how much rigging the job needs. We don't publish a price list because two trees of the same height can differ widely in cost.
- Height and trunk diameter: a mature coast redwood or eucalyptus is a far bigger job than an ornamental.
- Access: narrow side yards and backyard-only trees mean more hand-carrying and climbing.
- Targets: trees over roofs, pools or neighbors' property need controlled sectional lowering.
- Condition: dead or decayed wood is less predictable and slower to rig safely.
- Permit-related costs: the arborist report, replacement trees, or the in-lieu fee.
- Extras: stump grinding, root work, and wood hauling vs. leaving rounds.
Get at least one on-site estimate that spells out what's included.
What other tree services might I need?
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.