If you're pulling a grading or building permit in El Dorado County, California and your project is anywhere near a native oak tree, the county will likely require an Oak Resource Management Plan (ORMP) before work begins. This is one of the most specific and time sensitive arborist services in the county, and one that general tree services typically can't provide.
What the County Requires
El Dorado County, California’s Oak Resources Management Plan Ordinance protects native oaks with trunk diameters of 5 inches DBH or greater. If a proposed project could affect oak trees within or adjacent to the grading area, the county requires:
An inventory of affected oaks
Assessment of health and structural condition
Impact analysis for the proposed construction
A protection and mitigation plan meeting county standards
Signature by an ISA Certified Arborist
Without an approved ORMP, permits can be delayed or denied.
Why Use Sierra Tree and Fungi for Your ORMP
We prepare ORMP reports specifically for El Dorado County’s requirements. We know the local ordinance, the county review process, and what reviewers are looking for. Our reports are complete, professionally formatted, and signed by an ISA Certified Arborist with TRAQ qualification.
We also have no stake in the outcome of your project, we’re not the tree crew bidding on removals. Our assessment is independent.
Timeline and Scheduling
Most ORMP assessments can be completed within 5 to 7 business days of the site visit. Rush turnaround is available for time sensitive permits. Call (530) 391-6100 to discuss your project and get a fee estimate before you schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an Oak Resource Management Plan for my building permit?
If your grading or building permit project in El Dorado County could affect a native oak measuring 5 inches in diameter or greater, generally at or below 4,000 feet elevation, then likely yes. The county's Oak Resources Conservation Ordinance requires an Oak Resource Management Plan signed by a certified arborist before the permit is issued. Without an approved plan, the permit can be delayed or denied.
What counts as a protected oak in El Dorado County?
El Dorado County protects native oak species, including blue oak, valley oak, interior live oak, and black oak, once the trunk reaches 5 inches in diameter at breast height. An inventory measures each oak so the county can confirm which trees the ordinance applies to.
How much does an ORMP cost?
The cost of an Oak Resource Management Plan depends on the number of oaks, site complexity, and the level of mitigation the county requires. Because every project is different, I give a fee estimate after a short conversation about your site and timeline. Call (530) 391-6100 to discuss your project.
