The City’s adopted Major Vegetation Guidelines prohibit the removal of major vegetation during bird nesting season. Annually bird nesting season runs from February 1st through June 30th, where tree removal is not allowed unless imminent danger is present.

These guidelines also establish the definition of major vegetation, when a permit is required, and when replacement of vegetation is required. Generally speaking, a permit is not required for the removal of less than 3 (or 2 total) trees in any twelve-month period for single-family residential homes and is only allowed during non-bird nesting season. During bird-nesting season, trees can be allowed to be removed if trees are diseased, damaged, and/or aged and pose an imminent danger to persons and/or property upon City review of an arborist report attesting to the need.  For more information on when a coastal development permit is required and other requirements, please view the guidelines here.