Tree/Sidewalk Permit–Public Works

County of San Bernardino Tree Policy 08-12 states that the "Abutting property owner is responsible for the trimming or removal for his convenience or protection of his property, and; also, for the trimming of shrubs as necessary to remove sign obstruction for traffic entering the roadway" and Streets and Highways Code 5610 states that the adjacent property owner "shall maintain any sidewalk in such condition that the sidewalk will not endanger persons or property and maintain it in a condition which will not interfere with the public convenience."

Generally, the County tries to protect and preserve all trees except where trees are dead, hazardous, pose a threat to persons and property or where in direct conflict with required and necessary construction operations or access. Wherever reasonably possible, trees to be removed shall be transplanted or offered for transplant.

 

County staff will be able to advise and answer crucial questions to help permit applicants navigate the permit process. This will help to ensure that all major concerns are recognized early on in the process.

 

TREE PERMITS are free but are required for cutting, replacing and removing trees within any portion of a San Bernardino County Department of Public Works Maintained road right-of-way.

Check for a map of CMRS roads

 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

 

Question: Why do I need a Tree permit on a County maintained road?

Answer: STREETS AND HIGHWAYS CODE 5610 states that the underlying property owner “shall maintain any sidewalk in such condition that the sidewalk will not endanger persons or property and maintain it in a condition which will not interfere with the public convenience”.

Within any portion of a San Bernardino County Department of Public Works Maintained road right-of-way permits are required for any work done.

 

Question: If I obtain a Tree Permit from Land Use Services will that permit include the portions of the event that are within the road right-of-way?

Answer: No, you will need to obtain a Permit from Department Of Public Works for the portions of the event that are on County Maintained roads.

 

Question: How do I know if the tree is on a County maintained road?

Answer: You can go to the County of San Bernardino website at

http://sbcountydpw.maps.arcgis.com/home/index.html

Once you are there you can select the County Maintained Road System (CMRS) interactive map. This map will identify all the County maintained roads in yellow. If your event and/or detour route is on a road that is highlighted in yellow then a Special Event Permit will be required from Transportation Permits.

 

Question: Are there any County codes governing the trimming and removal of trees?

Answer: YES. The County Development Code Division 8 “Resource Management and Conservation”, Chapter 88.01 “Plant Protection and Management” provides regulations and guidelines for the management of plant resources in the unincorporated areas of the County on property or combinations of property under private or public ownership.

Can I apply online? Yes, applications can be found in the EZ Online Permitting Portal