Do I need a permit to remove a tree in my own yard in Clovis?

In most cases, no. Clovis exempts trees on developed single-family residential property, so a typical backyard tree is yours to remove. The main exceptions are street/parkway trees, heritage or protected trees, and trees required by a development condition. When in doubt, confirm with the city.

What about the tree between the sidewalk and the street?

That's usually a parkway or street tree in the public right-of-way, which the city controls. Removing or heavily pruning it requires a city permit — it's not considered part of your private property even though it's in front of your house.

Do fruit trees need a permit?

No. Fruit trees are exempt, and so is any tree that's an immediate emergency hazard to people or property.

Can you handle the permit if one is needed?

If your tree falls into a permit category we'll flag it before any work and point you to the right city department. Most residential removals don't need one. Call (559) 900-9838 and we'll let you know exactly where you stand.

Do You Need a Permit to Remove a Tree in Clovis? (2026)

Before you take down a tree, it's smart to know whether Clovis requires a permit — getting it wrong can mean fines. The good news: for the typical homeowner, the answer is usually "no." Here's exactly how it works.

The Short Answer

For most homeowners in Clovis, removing a tree on your own single-family residential property does not require a permit. The City of Clovis tree-protection ordinance specifically exempts trees on developed single-family residential property. That said, Clovis does protect certain trees — so check the exceptions below before you cut.

When You DO Need a Permit in Clovis

Parkway trees — trees in the strip between the sidewalk and curb, and any tree on public property, are city-controlled and require a tree removal permit.
Heritage trees — designated heritage trees are protected in all zoning districts.
Condition-of-approval trees — trees that were required to be planted or kept as part of a development or building-permit approval.
Larger trees on non-residential parcels — multi-trunk or large trees (12″+ diameter) outside of single-family residential property can be protected.

Always exempt: trees that pose an immediate threat to people or property during an emergency can be removed without a permit. Safety first — handle the hazard, then sort out paperwork.

The Permit Process

When a permit is required, applications go to the City of Clovis Public Utilities Department and include a written reason for removal, the property owner's signature, and a replanting plan. We're happy to point you in the right direction.

Don't Forget Your HOA

City rules are only half the story. Many Clovis-area neighborhoods have an HOA with its own tree and landscaping requirements that can be stricter than the city's. If you're in an HOA, check your CC&Rs before removing anything visible from the street.

We Make It Easy

As a licensed, insured local tree service, we deal with these rules every day. If your tree falls into a permit category, we'll tell you up front and help you understand the next step — no surprises. If it's exempt (most backyard trees are), we'll just get it done.

Heads up: this is a plain-English summary to help you get oriented, not legal advice. Ordinances change — always confirm a specific situation with City of Clovis Public Utilities Department before removal.

Questions about a specific tree? Call (559) 900-9838 for a free, honest assessment.

Do You Need a Permit to Remove a Tree in Clovis?

The Short Answer

When You DO Need a Permit in Clovis

The Permit Process

Don't Forget Your HOA

We Make It Easy

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