Thinking of removing a tree from your property in Los Gatos? Before you fire up the chainsaw, there’s one crucial thing you need to know: you may need a permit—even for trees on your own land. The Town of Los Gatos has specific regulations in place to protect its urban forest, and failure to follow the rules can lead to steep fines.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about tree removal permits in Los Gatos, including which trees are protected, how to apply, and what to do in an emergency.
Do You Need a Permit to Remove a Tree in Los Gatos?
The Short Answer
Yes—in many cases, a permit is required to remove a tree in Los Gatos, especially if it’s considered a protected or heritage tree. This applies to both residential and commercial properties.
You might need a permit even if:
- The tree is healthy
- The tree is on private property
- You’re planning a renovation, sale, or landscaping project
Why Tree Permits Exist
Los Gatos has long prioritized the preservation of its green canopy. Tree protection ordinances are in place to:
- Maintain the town’s natural beauty and historic character
- Provide habitat for local wildlife
- Prevent erosion and reduce urban heat
- Promote safe, sustainable development
Even if removal seems simple, the city wants to ensure that trees are only cut down when absolutely necessary.
Types of Trees Protected in Los Gatos
Heritage Trees
Heritage trees are considered especially valuable because of their species, size, or historical significance. These trees are often:
- Native to the area (e.g., Coast Live Oak, Valley Oak, California Bay Laurel)
- Particularly large or old
- Located on historic properties or prominent streets
Heritage trees are typically protected regardless of location or development plans. Removing one without permission can result in serious penalties.
Large Protected Trees on Private Property
You may also need a permit to remove any tree that meets the following condition:
- Trunk diameter of 18 inches or more, measured 4.5 feet above the ground
Even if the tree isn’t native or historic, its size alone can place it under protection. This means a healthy eucalyptus, sycamore, or pine tree might still require a permit before removal.
Common Situations That Require a Tree Removal Permit
You’re Renovating or Building
If you’re remodeling your home, building a new structure, or even doing major landscaping, chances are you’ll need to submit a Tree Protection Plan to the Town of Los Gatos.
This is especially true if the construction could:
- Damage the roots or canopy of a nearby tree
- Require tree removal to make space for additions, pools, or driveways
Protected trees can’t be removed just to simplify construction access—the town will ask for proof that removal is necessary and may suggest alternatives like root barriers or pruning.
The Tree Is Healthy but Inconvenient
Just because a tree drops leaves on your patio or blocks your view doesn’t mean you can cut it down. Inconvenience is not a valid reason for removal under Los Gatos’s ordinance.
Permits are generally approved only when:
- The tree poses a hazard to people or property
- It interferes with approved development
- An ISA-certified arborist has documented disease, decay, or structural risk
If you’re unsure, consult with an arborist first—they can evaluate whether your situation meets the town’s criteria.
You’re Selling or Buying Property
If you’re in the process of buying or selling a home in Los Gatos, the property’s trees should be on your radar.
- Real estate inspections may flag large or damaged trees
- Some buyers may want to remove trees for future renovations
- Sellers may be tempted to “clean up” the yard before listing—but cutting down a protected tree without a permit can delay or complicate the sale
Pro tip: Check for tree restrictions before listing or submitting renovation plans.
How to Apply for a Tree Removal Permit in Los Gatos
Step-by-Step Process
Here’s what the application process typically looks like:
- Download the Tree Removal Permit Application from the Town of Los Gatos website
- Provide details including:
- Your property address
- The tree species and trunk size
- Reason for removal
- Photos of the tree and surrounding area
- Your property address
- Include an arborist report (if applicable)—especially for health-related removals
- Submit the application online or in person at Town Hall
Permits may also be reviewed in coordination with building permits if removal is part of a larger project.
Fees and Processing Time
- Application fees vary, but typically range from $100 to $250 per tree
- The process usually takes 7 to 21 business days, depending on whether an inspection is required
- You may be asked to plant a replacement tree or pay a mitigation fee, especially if removing a large heritage tree
What Happens After You Apply
- A city arborist may inspect the tree and surrounding property
- You’ll receive a decision in writing—approved, denied, or conditionally approved
- If approved, removal must be completed within a specific time window (e.g., 6 months)
Emergency Tree Removals – What to Know
When Permits Are Not Required
In emergency situations—like after a major storm or when a tree poses an immediate threat—you’re allowed to remove the tree without prior approval. This includes:
- Trees that have already fallen
- Trees with severe structural damage (e.g., large cracks or leaning toward a home)
- Dead or diseased trees that could fail at any moment
However, Los Gatos still requires documentation and follow-up after the fact.
Document Everything
If you need to perform an emergency removal:
- Take before-and-after photos of the tree and surrounding area
- Get a letter from a certified arborist confirming the hazardous condition
- Submit a post-removal notification to the Town within the required timeframe (usually 10 days)
This documentation protects you from liability and shows you acted in good faith during an emergency.
Avoiding Fines and Penalties
Don’t Remove Without Approval
Removing a protected tree without a permit in Los Gatos isn’t just a paperwork issue—it can come with serious financial consequences.
- Fines can reach several thousand dollars per tree, especially for heritage trees
- You may also be required to replant multiple trees, pay a mitigation fee, or face stop-work orders if removal was tied to a construction project
- In extreme cases, unpermitted removals could impact future building or zoning approvals
If you’re ever in doubt, always check with the Town’s Planning Department before moving forward.
Work with a Local Arborist or Tree Service
The smartest way to stay compliant (and avoid stress) is to hire professionals who know the rules.
A certified local tree service, like Firefighter Tree Service, can:
- Determine whether a permit is needed
- Help with applications and provide required documentation
- Handle emergency removals with proper reporting
- Ensure the work meets safety, insurance, and city compliance standards
Los Gatos has built its reputation on scenic neighborhoods and lush, tree-lined streets—and its tree permit regulations are designed to protect that legacy. If you’re planning to remove a tree, it pays to do it right.
Take the time to understand whether your tree is protected, what documents you’ll need, and how the permit process works. A little planning upfront can save you time, money, and legal headaches down the road.
Need help navigating tree removal in Los Gatos? Firefighter Tree Service is here to guide you—from permit paperwork to safe, professional removal. Contact us today for a free consultation and peace of mind.
