Certain trees —because of size, species, age, historic significance, ecological value, etc.— may be designated “heritage trees,” a legal protection that prohibits their harm or destruction. In some cases, this prohibition can extend even to trees on private property. If you are in the market for a new home, be sure ask about the existence of heritage trees on any property you are interested in buying. Currently, San Francisco has relatively few of these protected old trees, but that situation could change.

See the following organizations for more information on tree protection and maintenance in San Francisco:

• The Urban Forest Council has a mission “to guide the stewardship of San Francisco's trees by promoting a healthy and sustainable urban forest that benefits all San Franciscans….” You may contact the council by email at info@caufc.org.
  
  
• Friends of the Urban Forest (FUF) is an organization that offers “financial, technical, and practical assistance to individuals and neighborhood groups who want to plant and care for trees.” Call them at (415) 561-6890 for more information, including details on volunteer opportunities.
  
  
• The Department of Public Works's Bureau of Urban Forestry is committed to a policy of maintaining and expanding a diverse population of street trees as an essential component of the urban forest in San Francisco.” Visit them online for tree planting and removal applications, or call (415) 554-6700.