Many towns and cities have a “heritage tree” preservation ordinance that dictates what you can and can't do with certain trees (even trees on private property). The rules are usually determined by the height, circumference and species of tree.
In some parts of California, for example, a heritage tree is defined as any tree with a trunk circumference of 55 inches or more, or is at least 35 feet tall. Other municipalities define a heritage tree as any cedar, bay, redwood, buckeye, or oak tree with a trunk diameter of 10 inches or more when measured at a point 4 feet above ground level.
This is all very technical information to say that removing or even trimming a heritage tree requires a permit. Cutting the tree without approval can incur a fine of $20,000- $60,000. And even if you do receive a permit, you may be required to replace the tree you remove.
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