Skip to content

Walnut Creek · Building on your lot

Tree removal in Walnut Creek

Walnut Creek's own rules on tree removal, with the code text for every value.

Ask about tree removal in Walnut Creek See coverage

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

What Walnut Creek's code says

Walnut Creek code What Walnut Creek's code adds
Exemptions
  • The Director may give written permission to remove a hazardous tree when immediate action is needed for safety.
    Applies: Only when the tree threatens structures or human life and needs immediate action.
    § 3-8.03 · code text
    Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, whenever the Director determines that a tree(s) is in a hazardous or dangerous condition requiring immediate action for the safety of structures or human life, such tree(s) may be removed by written permission of the Director.
Permit to remove
  • Yes, a tree removal permit is required.
    Applies: Applies to any tree growing within City limits, except as the code allows.
    § 3-8.03 · code text
    No person shall cut down, destroy or remove any tree(s) growing within the City limits from any property without a tree removal permit, except as provided herein.
  • Yes; apply to the Director at least 10 days before removal when no development is involved.
    Applies: Applies to tree removal on any property in the City.
    § 3-8.04 · code text
    Any person desiring to cut down, destroy or remove one (1) or more trees on any property in the City of Walnut Creek shall file an application for a tree removal permit with the Director.

Who this affects

HomeownersContractorsDesigners

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Walnut Creek?

Walnut Creek's code: Yes, a tree removal permit is required. (Applies to any tree growing within City limits, except as the code allows.) (§ 3-8.03); The Director may give written permission to remove a hazardous tree when immediate action is needed for safety. (Only when the tree threatens structures or human life and needs immediate action.) (§ 3-8.03).

General information, not legal advice.

Ask about a specific Walnut Creek property

Ask GoCodebook how Walnut Creek's tree removal rules apply to your situation and get an answer that cites the section.

Ask your question

More on building on your lot in Walnut Creek

All building on your lot rules in Walnut Creek

Fences and walls in Walnut Creek

Sheds, garages and other accessory structures in Walnut Creek

Running a business from home in Walnut Creek

Lot splits under SB 9 in Walnut Creek

RV and boat parking in Walnut Creek

Solar panels and EV chargers in Walnut Creek

Building on a hillside in Walnut Creek

Affordable units in new housing (inclusionary) in Walnut Creek

Signs on homes in Walnut Creek

Walnut Creek Municipal Code — full text