Rules guide · checked October 2026
Do You Need a Permit to Remove a Tree in Brentwood, CA?
It depends on whose tree it is and which city you're in. Here is what we could verify for Brentwood, Oakley and Antioch, what we couldn't, and who to ask.
This is information, not legal advice. City codes change, and the City of Brentwood's tree information page was not readable by our research tools. Confirm with the city before you cut, and have your contractor confirm in writing who pulls any permit.
Brentwood: street and city-owned trees
Chapter 7.03 of Brentwood's municipal code applies to street and city-owned trees on public rights-of-way and public places (Brentwood Municipal Code). Under it:
- A permit or authorization is required to trim, cut, mutilate or injure a street or city-owned tree.
- Routine maintenance such as minor pruning, trimming, feeding and watering is exempt.
- Property owners are responsible for maintaining adjacent street trees, including clearance over sidewalks and streets.
- A denied applicant can appeal to the city tree board.
The city also publishes a tree information page. We couldn't read it, so check it directly for the request process and contact details.
Brentwood: trees on your own property
We found no private-tree permit rule in the chapter above. That does not mean none exists elsewhere in the city's codes or for special situations such as development conditions, so ask the city before removing a large or unusual tree.
Oakley
The City of Oakley's Urban Forestry/Tree Program says the city maintains a permit system for removals and that all heritage oak trees are protected; private-tree permit questions go to Development Services (City of Oakley). Contact the city before removing a heritage oak or any large tree.
Antioch
Antioch's code regulates removal of protected trees on developed property through a tree removal permit application that includes tree details and the contractor's business license; the Parks department aims to decide within 10 working days of a complete application (Antioch §9-5.1203). The city publishes a permit application form. We could not confirm which trees count as protected, so ask the city.
Nesting birds
CDFW says many California birds nest from February through August and recommends working outside that season; if work can't wait, it recommends a survey for active nests and buffers around them (CDFW). Fish and Game Code §3503 prohibits needless destruction of nests or eggs.
Utility lines
PG&E says it is unlawful to work within 10 feet of a distribution or transmission line without contacting the utility, and asks customers to call (800) 564-5080 before tree work near lines (PG&E).
Other things to check
- Your HOA's rules, if you have one.
- Whether the tree sits on a property line; we don't give legal advice on neighbor-tree disputes.
- Any development condition tied to your lot.
Companies that handle permits are listed when you request a quote; ask who applies and who pays.
Sources
- City of Brentwood Municipal Code, Chapter 7.03 Trees and Shrubs (accessed Oct 2026)
- City of Brentwood — Tree Information (page not readable by our tools; link only)
- City of Oakley — Urban Forestry / Tree Program (accessed Oct 2026)
- City of Antioch Municipal Code §9-5.1203 (tree removal permits, developed property) (accessed Oct 2026)
- City of Antioch — Tree Removal Permit Application (form dated Mar 7, 2024)
- California Department of Fish and Wildlife — Nesting birds and tree work (accessed Oct 2026)
- PG&E — Fall Tree Trimming Safety Tips (2022)
Checked October 2026.
Permit and rules questions
Do I need a permit to remove a tree on my own property in Brentwood?
Brentwood's Chapter 7.03 applies to street and city-owned trees, and we found no private-tree permit rule in that chapter. Rules can change and other city codes can apply, so confirm with the City of Brentwood before removing a large or unusual tree.
Who is responsible for the tree in front of my house?
Brentwood's code says property owners maintain adjacent street trees, including keeping limbs clear over sidewalks and streets. Trimming, cutting or injuring a street tree without authorization is unlawful under the chapter.
Are there rules about nesting birds?
Yes. CDFW says many California birds nest from February through August and recommends working outside that season or having a biologist survey for active nests. Fish and Game Code §3503 prohibits needlessly destroying nests or eggs.
What about trees near power lines?
PG&E says it is unlawful to work within 10 feet of a distribution or transmission line without contacting the utility. Call (800) 564-5080 for a safety evaluation before tree work near lines.
Request a tree service quote
Tell us what tree work you need. We pass your request to an independent tree service company serving East Contra Costa, who contacts you to look at the job and quote. There's no cost to send a request.
- Takes about a minute
- No obligation to hire
- Ask for a written, itemized quote