Tree Removal Permit Requirements in King City, CA
CORRECTION: the department line is 831-385-3281; the previously listed 831-386-5915 is the Chief Building Official Mark McClain's direct line (mmcclain@kingcity.com). The City of King Building & Safety Department is the AHJ inside city limits, enforcing the California Building Standards Code (Title 24), which for 1- and 2-family dwellings is the 2022 California Residential Code, together with King City Municipal Code Title 12. Permits are submitted through the City's CitizenServe online portal (verified live). No standalone fee schedule is published online, so per-project fees should be confirmed with the department.
By Joey, Founder · Last verified May 31, 2026 · How we research →
When you need a Tree Removal permit
Removing a protected, heritage, or street tree may require a tree-removal permit under King City Municipal Code; trees in the public right-of-way are City-managed. Removing a typical non-protected tree on private property usually does not require a building permit. Confirm whether the tree is protected with the City before removal.
Tree Removal Permit Costs: King City vs. Nearby
| City | Estimated Fee |
|---|---|
| King City | N/A |
| Los Angeles | $25 – $500 |
| Sacramento County | $25 – $500 |
| San Diego | $25 – $500 |
Fees shown are estimates based on local building code data. Actual fees may vary based on project scope and valuation. See all King City permit costs →
Zoning & HOA Considerations
Many cities protect trees above a certain diameter at breast height (DBH), commonly 6", 12", 19", or 20", and some cities protect specific species (oak, sycamore) regardless of size. Portland, Atlanta, Austin, Seattle, and Los Angeles all have significant tree protection rules. Houston and most of Texas have none.
If you live in an HOA community: hOAs commonly regulate tree removal, particularly for front-yard trees and specimen trees. Even where city law permits removal, HOA approval may be required.
Estimated Project Timeline
Here's a typical timeline for a tree removal project:
Timeline is based on the typical about 1 week permit processing time. Actual timelines vary by project complexity, completeness of application, and current department workload.
Need a Tree Removal permit?
Answer a few quick questions for a personalized answer about your specific project.
Check Now, Free →Building Department Contact
Frequently Asked Questions
Contact the building department for current Tree Removal permit fee information. Fees typically vary based on project scope and valuation.
It depends on the specifics of your project. Some smaller Tree Removal projects may be exempt from permit requirements, while larger ones typically require a permit. Use our free lookup tool to check your specific situation.
Working without a required permit can result in fines, stop-work orders, being required to remove completed work, and complications when selling your home. It's always best to check first.
Typical approval time for Tree Removal permits is about 1 week. More complex projects may take longer if plan review is required.
If you live in an HOA community, you may need architectural review approval in addition to a building permit. HOA rules and city building codes are separate, you may need to satisfy both. Review your CC&Rs and submit to your HOA's architectural review committee before starting work.
Learn More About Tree Removal Permits
Read our complete guide covering permit requirements, costs, common exemptions, and the application process.
Read Tree Removal Guide →