Tree removal in Danville: the local rules

Each rule below links to the section of the Danville Municipal Code it was read from, with the code text one click away (checked October 2026). General information, not legal advice.

What Danville's code says

Danville code What Danville's code adds
Exemptions	The permit fee is waived, but a tree removal permit is still required. Applies: A protected tree removed because it is near the house, or for defensible space or a fuel break required by an insurer or fire agency. § 32-79.5 · code text A tree removal permit is required pursuant to subsection 32-79.6, but the application fee shall be waived under each of the following circumstances: The permit fee is waived with evidence the tree is dead or dying; a tree removal permit is still required. Applies: Any dead or dying tree in very poor condition; a tree killed by the owner or others does not qualify. § 32-79.5 · code text Any dead or dying tree in very poor condition may be removed if the applicant has submitted sufficient evidence to the Planning Division, attesting that the tree is dead or dying. It may be removed without a permit, but the owner must get a tree removal permit afterward. Applies: Only when a protected tree is an immediate hazard to life or property. § 32-79.5 · code text If the condition of a protected tree presents an immediate hazard to life or property, it may be removed without a permit. However, subsequent to the removal, the property owner shall obtain a tree removal permit from the Town. No permit is required. Applies: Only for routine maintenance of a protected tree. § 32-79.5 · code text The routine maintenance of a protected tree shall not require a permit.
Permit to remove	Yes, a tree removal permit from the Planning Division is required before removal. Applies: Applies to protected trees on any property in the Town of Danville. § 32-79.5 · code text no person may destroy or remove a protected tree on any property within the Town of Danville without obtaining a tree removal permit from the Planning Division prior to removal. No permit is required. Applies: Only for a tree whose removal was specifically approved in an earlier development approval. § 32-79.5 · code text A tree whose removal was specifically approved as part of a previously approved development entitlement.
Replacement trees	The Town may require replacement trees on-site or off-site. Applies: Applies where the Town finds mitigation is necessary. § 32-79.7 · code text Where mitigation is determined to be necessary, the Town may require the planting of on-site or off-site replacement trees, their location and species to be determined by the Town.

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Frequently asked questions

Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Danville?

Danville's code: Yes, a tree removal permit from the Planning Division is required before removal. (Applies to protected trees on any property in the Town of Danville.) (§ 32-79.5); The Town may require replacement trees on-site or off-site. (Applies where the Town finds mitigation is necessary.) (§ 32-79.7).

Tree removal in Danville

What Danville's code says

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