Tiburon & Belvedere: defensible space, inspections, and tree permits
By Michael Schuck, ISA Certified Arborist WE-15750A · Updated 2026-10-20
Who inspects, and what they look for
Tiburon Fire Protection District (Tiburon and Belvedere), with MWPA evaluations; 415-432-8879. Drive-in Chipper Days at Blackie's Pasture, second Saturday May–September; 2027 dates already posted. SMFD's on-demand chipper also serves Tiburon.
Tree permits and the fire question
Heritage trees over 60 inches circumference at 24 inches; all listed oaks at any size; any tree on undeveloped land (TMC 15A). The useful clause: if the fire marshal declares a tree a fire hazard, town officials may authorize removal without a permit, reported the next business day. Blue gum, Monterey pine and cypress, and redwood are classed undesirable — a permit is needed to plant them, not to remove them. Replacement up to 3:1 for the rest.
Programs and money
MWPA Resident Grant, Tiburon Chipper Days, SMFD chipper, Senior Measure C exemption. Details and links on the Marin County page and resources.
A typical Tiburon & Belvedere job
A ridge lot with a Monterey cypress windbreak over the garage and a row of junipers on the driveway. The cypress comes out under the fire-marshal path once the district signs off; the junipers go without a permit; the oaks on the downhill side get pruned to clearance and the plan documents it for the insurer.
Booking
Text or call with the address and the notice or letter. Site consultation $375 ($450 with written opinion), within 7 days. Defensible Space Plan $850. Permit arborist report $750–1,250. Consulting only — no tree work sold or referred. Services and pricing →
Questions we get
Who inspects defensible space in Tiburon & Belvedere?
Tiburon Fire Protection District (Tiburon and Belvedere), with MWPA evaluations; 415-432-8879.
Can I remove a tree for fire safety in Tiburon & Belvedere without a permit?
Heritage trees over 60 inches circumference at 24 inches; all listed oaks at any size; any tree on undeveloped land (TMC 15A). The useful clause: if the fire marshal declares a tree a fire hazard, town officials may authorize removal without a permit, reported the next business day. Blue gum, Monterey pine and cypress, and redwood are classed undesirable — a permit is needed to plant them, not to remove them. Replacement up to 3:1 for the rest.
What programs help pay for vegetation work in Tiburon & Belvedere?
MWPA Resident Grant, Tiburon Chipper Days, SMFD chipper, Senior Measure C exemption.