Native oaks are one of the best things about yards around Rancho Cordova, and every city here protects them. The catch for a backyard project: it isn't only cutting a tree that needs a permit. Grading, trenching or building inside a protected tree's root zone can too. Here's how it works in each area we serve.
Rancho Cordova
Rancho Cordova protects native oaks under its tree ordinance (Municipal Code, Chapter 19.12). Removing or majorly trimming a protected tree, or trenching, grading or filling inside its dripline, needs a City tree permit first. Not sure if your tree counts? The City's Public Works team answers at TreePermits@cityofranchocordova.org.
Carmichael and Fair Oaks
Both are in unincorporated Sacramento County, where native oaks are protected on any property, including your own backyard, with no minimum size. Removing or pruning one needs a County tree permit, and limbs or roots over 2 inches must be handled by an ISA Certified Arborist or Tree Worker. Questions go to the County Tree Coordinator at trees@saccounty.gov.
Folsom
Folsom protects native oaks (coast live, blue, valley and interior live oak). A City tree permit is needed to remove one, cut limbs 2 inches or larger, remove more than 10% of the canopy, or build pools, additions, grading or trenching in a protected tree's root zone (Folsom Municipal Code, Chapter 12.16).
Citrus Heights
Citrus Heights protects native oaks 6 inches or more in diameter and other mature trees 19 inches or more. Removing one, trimming branches over 2 inches, or construction and grading inside its protection zone needs a City tree permit.
What this means for your project
- Plan around the roots first. Patios, walls, irrigation trenches and gas or power lines are easiest to route around a root zone on paper, before anything is dug.
- Pavers can be gentler near trees. They sit on a shallower base than many slabs and can be lifted later if roots need attention.
- Ask before you dig. If you're not sure whether a tree is protected, the city or County contacts above can tell you.
Rules change, so confirm with your city or the County before work starts. When David designs a yard with an oak in it, the tree's root zone goes on the plan from day one.
