Report Illegal Tree Removal - San Francisco Ordinance

Land Use and Zoning California 3 Minutes Read · published February 06, 2026 Flag of California

In San Francisco, California, unlawful removal or damage to street trees and certain protected trees on private property is addressed by city agencies and permitting rules. This guide explains who enforces tree protections, how to document and report suspected illegal tree removal, what to expect from enforcement, and where to find official forms and contacts.

Who enforces tree protections

The San Francisco Department of Public Works (Urban Forestry) manages street trees and accepts reports and permit applications; urgent or criminal harm may be escalated through the city 311 system or police. For reporting street-tree removal or damage, contact Public Works as described below [1]. To contact city services directly, use SF311 for intake and tracking [2].

Report damage promptly and preserve evidence such as photos and dates.

How to document an illegal tree removal

  • Photograph the site from multiple angles, include property numbers and nearby landmarks.
  • Record the date and approximate time the removal or damage occurred.
  • Note any witnesses and collect contact details if possible.
  • Keep copies of permits posted at the site, contractor names, or notices if present.

How to report

File a report to San Francisco Public Works (Urban Forestry) online or by phone; use SF311 for intake and to obtain a service request number. When reporting, provide photos, location (address or nearest cross-street), and any permit numbers or contractor details. Public Works will triage and advise on next steps, which may include inspection.[1] [2]

Do not disturb remaining evidence at the site unless unsafe.

Penalties & Enforcement

Penalties and enforcement for illegal tree removal in San Francisco involve administrative and possibly civil or criminal pathways. Specific fine amounts and schedules are not provided on the cited Public Works reporting pages; where numerical penalties or code sections are required, see official code references listed in Resources below.

  • Fines: not specified on the cited page[1].
  • Escalation: the city may issue notices, stop-work orders, restoration orders, or citations; escalation details not specified on the cited reporting page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: mandatory replanting, restoration of site, stop-work orders, administrative hearings or civil action may apply; specific remedies vary by case.
  • Enforcer: San Francisco Department of Public Works (Urban Forestry) handles street trees and initial enforcement; other city departments may be involved for private-property protected trees.
  • Inspections and complaint pathways: inspection follows a submitted service request; use Public Works reporting or SF311 to request inspection.[1][2]
  • Appeals/review: appeal routes may include administrative hearings or requests for review; specific time limits are not specified on the cited reporting page and should be checked in the city code or permit notices.

Applications & Forms

Street tree requests, permits or removal applications are handled by San Francisco Public Works. The Public Works site provides step-by-step instructions and submission links; if a specific form name or fee appears on the official page, follow that guidance when submitting. If no form is published for a specific private-tree removal, contact the Planning Department or Public Works for next steps.[1]

Action steps (what to do right now)

  • Take dated photos showing the tree, stump, and surrounding area.
  • File a report with San Francisco Public Works (Urban Forestry) and request an inspection[1].
  • If immediate or criminal damage is suspected, contact SF311 to create a service request and ask for escalation[2].
  • Preserve evidence and keep copies of all communications, photos, and permit documents.
Keep a clear chronology of events and documents to support enforcement or appeals.

FAQ

Who should I contact to report a removed street tree?
Contact San Francisco Public Works (Urban Forestry) through their reporting portal or call SF311 to file a service request.[1][2]
What information should I include in a report?
Include photos, exact location or address, date/time, witness details, and any posted permits or contractor names.
Can the city force replanting or restoration?
Yes, the city may order restoration, replanting, or other remedies; specific remedies depend on the situation and applicable code sections.

How-To

  1. Document the scene with clear photos and notes of date/time and location.
  2. Report the incident to San Francisco Public Works (Urban Forestry) via the online portal or phone.[1]
  3. Open a SF311 service request for tracking and escalate if the removal appears intentional or criminal.[2]
  4. Retain evidence and follow instructions from city inspectors; respond to any permit-request or hearing notices.

Key Takeaways

  • Report promptly to Public Works and SF311 to ensure inspection and a service record.
  • Document thoroughly—photos, witnesses, and permit notices strengthen enforcement cases.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] San Francisco Public Works - Trees and Urban Forestry
  2. [2] SF311 - City Services and Reporting

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