By definition of a Significant Tree Ordinance for San Mateo County, the Board of Supervisors finds and declares that the existing and future trees and tree communities within the County of San Mateo are a valuable and distinctive natural resource. And, in its Significant Tree Ordinance, the County states as one of the environmental consequences from the indiscriminate removal or destruction of trees and tree communities in San Mateo County the following:
“Loss of environmental benefits of trees in neighborhoods, such as noise reduction, oxygen replacement, carbon dioxide reduction, interception of particulates, aesthetic qualities.”
Here are some documents the County Planning and Building Division publishes that pertain to the removal, trimming and permitting of Heritage Trees and other Significant Trees.
Regulation of Removal of Significant Trees
The Board of Supervisors finds and declares that the existing and future trees and tree communities located within the County of San Mateo are a valuable and distinctive natural resource.
Downloadable PDF
Regulation of Trimming and Removing Heritage Trees
Why are some trees designated as heritage trees? Which trees are heritage trees? I have a heritage tree on my property. How does the designation affect me?
Downloadable PDF
San Mateo County’s Heritage Tree Ordinance
San Mateo County is an area of great natural beauty and its outstanding heritage tree population has been and continues to be an invaluable asset in contributing to the economic, environmental, and aesthetic stability of the County and the welfare of its people and of future generations. Irresponsible, wanton, and wholesale destruction of heritage trees could, among other things, diminish such beauty, scientific and historical values, adversely affect the environment, reduce property values, detract from scenic highways, and destroy the County’s recreational economy.
Downloadable PDF
San Mateo County’s Significant Tree Ordinance
Downloadable PDF
County Public Works Permitting Fees & Forms
http://publicworks.smcgov.org/permitting-fees-and-forms