San José lists street trees, heritage trees, ordinance-size trees and trees on certain property types among those needing removal permits. Its ordinance-size definition uses 38 inches of trunk circumference at 4½ feet above ground; multi-trunk measurements are combined. Confirm the current rule and property-specific process with the City. City of San José: tree removal permits.
The City requires a permit before street-tree pruning, removal or planting and describes those permits as free. Permit status is separate from hiring a contractor or paying for the work. City of San José: street-tree permits.
Identify the tree’s setting first
Record whether the tree is in a front yard, back yard, shared landscape or near the curb and sidewalk. Do not decide ownership just from where a fence sits. Ask the City or an appropriate professional if the public right-of-way or heritage status is unclear.
Describe the property type accurately
Tell the professional whether the property is a single-family home, duplex, multi-unit building or commercial site. The same tree dimensions can lead to different application questions on different property types. A ZIP match does not make a permit determination.
Gather details without climbing or cutting
If safe, note the species if known, approximate trunk size, number of trunks and nearby structures. Photos can help a professional discuss the next assessment, but they do not substitute for a site visit when one is needed. Do not enter a hazardous area to obtain measurements.
Assign permit tasks in the written scope
Ask who will check the applicable process, prepare documents, pay fees and confirm permission before work starts. Keep approval documents with the estimate. A referral, quote or contractor appointment is not authorization from the City.
Account for access and the final surface
Discuss driveways, overhead lines, nearby buildings and the path for equipment. If a stump is to be ground, specify access limits and what will replace the area afterward. Avoid assuming that root removal, paving repair or full landscape restoration is included.
Treat replacement planting as a separate deliverable
Ask whether planting is needed as part of an approval and who confirms the species and location. Request a written description of supply, installation and aftercare. Keep the planting decision connected to the applicable City guidance rather than choosing only by price.
Before you agree to work
- Tree location: private yard, curbside or shared area
- Property type and tree size or species if safely known
- Permit status and the person responsible for applications
- Equipment access and protection of nearby structures
- Stump finish, debris removal and any required replacement planting
Use the San Jose estimate planner to organize the written scope.
Editorial review: October 15, 2026. Tree Care Match publishes referral and planning information, not professional diagnosis or municipal approval. Check linked authorities for current property-specific requirements.