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Tree removal appeals update: Starting October 19, 2026, appeals of hazardous tree removals will be heard only by the Director of Public Works. These appeals will no longer go to the Board of Appeals.
This change applies to trees posted for removal because they are hazardous.
In accordance with Public Works Code, Article 16, Section 806, a written appeal may be made in regards to the removal of a tree within 15 or 30 days of the posting date (depending on the posting period). Appeals must state the grounds for the appeal and may be sent to urbanforestry@sfdpw.org or mailed to San Francisco Public Works Bureau of Urban Forestry, 49 South Van Ness Ave, Ste 1000, San Francisco, CA 94103.
Our aim at Public Works is for San Francisco to have a thriving, robust urban forest.
That is why we always look for all alternatives before choosing tree removal or approving a property owner's request for removal. However, removals are sometimes necessary to protect public safety, first and foremost, and to navigate the many challenges of growing trees in an urban setting.
We always look to see if a street tree is replantable in its current location, or closest available site. If we have explored all options and cannot replant a street tree, that means the basin is not in compliance with Public Works Director's Order 187,246, as well as with the Minimum Guidelines which can be found on the Plant a Street Tree page. Some common considerations that limit street tree replanting include sidewalk width, proximity to any existing infrastructure (street lights, traffic lights, stop signs, bus stops, etc.) and conflicts with any underground utilities.
"Hazard tree" shall mean any tree that poses an imminent hazard to person or property. The Director may determine that a tree is a hazard if it or any part of it:
- Appears dead, dangerous, or likely to fall, even after proper maintenance activities are performed to eliminate dead or dangerous parts;
- Obstructs or damages a street, sidewalk, or other existing structure;
- Harbors a serious disease or infestation threatening the health of other trees;
- Interferes with vehicular or pedestrian traffic; or
- Poses any other significant hazard or potential hazard, as determined by the Director; provided, however, that feasible measures have been applied to abate any such hazard, such as applicable Maintenance activities as defined in this Section 802. The Director's determination shall be in writing.
SEC. 802. DEFINITIONS.
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If Location IS replantable, tree will be replaced unless conflict with underground utilities is found. If conflict is found, replacement will be relocated or added to deferred replacement report if replacement location not found within 120 days.
If Location is NOT replantable, Replacement will be relocated or added to deferred replacement report if replacement location not found within 120 days.
Please note, photos and descriptions will be removed once the posting period has expired. Contact urbanforestry@sfdpw.org or 628-652-TREE (8733) with questions or for more information.
Active Appeals at the Board of Appeals
| Agenda | District | Address | Appeal No. | Hearing Date | Description | Permit and Hearing Nos. | Links |
