Tree removal in Elk Grove: the local rules

Each rule below links to the section of the Elk Grove Municipal Code it was read from, with the code text one click away (checked October 2026). General information, not legal advice.

What Elk Grove's code says

Elk Grove code What Elk Grove's code adds
Exemptions	Exempt: trees of local importance. Applies: Only when not part of, or tied to, a discretionary development project. § 19.12.080 · code text Trees of local importance when not part of or associated with a discretionary development project; Removal allowed with permission of the City Arborist in normal working hours, or Public Works at other times. Applies: An emergency where a hazardous tree needs immediate action to protect human life, buildings or structures. § 19.12.080 · code text In case of emergency caused by the tree being in a hazardous or dangerous condition requiring immediate action for the safety of human life or buildings or structures, such tree may be removed by permission of the City Arborist during normal working hours or by the Public Works Department at all other times.
Permit to remove	Yes; apply to Community Development, and the Director decides after a City Arborist recommendation. Applies: Tree work that needs a tree permit under this chapter, on private land not part of a discretionary development project. § 19.12.090 · code text When a tree permit is required by this chapter, the person or property owner desiring to complete the work shall make an application for a tree permit to the Community Development Department on a form provided by the City. No separate tree permit; tree details go with the project application, and no removal until approval and city field check. Applies: Tree removal as part of a development project. § 19.12.090 · code text When a development project proposes the removal of trees, no separate application for a tree permit shall be required as part of the application for the development project.
Replacement trees	A new tree in at least a 15-gallon container. Applies: Alternative mitigation for a tree that is untreatably diseased, damaging structures, or hazardous; not needed if the City Arborist finds no space. § 19.12.180 · code text In granting an alternative to the mitigation requirement, the designated approving authority shall require that the applicant mitigate for the loss of the tree by requiring that a new tree (minimum fifteen (15) gallon container) be planted in place of the removed tree unless the City Arborist determines that there is no feasible space remaining on the project property for a new tree.

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Frequently asked questions

Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Elk Grove?

Elk Grove's code: Yes; apply to Community Development, and the Director decides after a City Arborist recommendation. (Tree work that needs a tree permit under this chapter, on private land not part of a discretionary development project.) (§ 19.12.090); A new tree in at least a 15-gallon container. (Alternative mitigation for a tree that is untreatably diseased, damaging structures, or hazardous; not needed if the City Arborist finds no space.) (§ 19.12.180).

Tree removal in Elk Grove

What Elk Grove's code says

Who this affects

Frequently asked questions

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