What to Do When a Tree Falls on Your Property in Sonoma County

You hear the crack first. Then a heavy thud. It’s loud enough to shake the windows. That tree you kept meaning to check? It’s down. And it didn’t fall quietly.

When a tree crashes down (on your house, in your yard, or across a neighbor’s fence), it’s more than an inconvenience. It’s a mix of panic, damage control, and legal questions that no one wants to deal with unprepared.

This guide walks you through what really matters when a tree falls in Sonoma County. Who’s responsible? What are your next steps?. And how to prevent future damage without jumping from tab to tab looking for answers.

Who’s Responsible When a Tree Comes Down?

That depends on its previous position and condition before it fell. If the tree was healthy and the fall was due to weather, it’s usually just bad luck. But if there were warning signs, like decay or neglect, the property owner could be responsible.

What to Do First: Safety Before Anything Else

Before you grab your phone or step outside, stop.

• Stay away from the fallen tree, especially if wires are down
• Turn off power if the tree hit the home
• Don’t try to move large limbs yourself

Once the area is safe:

• Take wide-angle photos from different sides
• Note the time and weather
• Write down anything you heard or saw before the fall

When to Call 911 vs. Tree Service

Call 911 if:

• Power lines are involved
• Someone is injured or trapped
• The tree is blocking a public road

Call a tree service if:

• The tree is on your property and stable
• You need help clearing branches
• You want a professional risk assessment

Pro Tip: SkyView Tree Experts offers emergency response. Don’t wait to make the call.

How Insurance Handles Fallen Trees in Sonoma County

Most homeowners insurance covers tree removal and property damage, but there are limits.

• Coverage often caps removal
• Damage must involve a structure (like a home, garage, or fence)
• Dead trees or ignored hazards may void your claim

Check your policy now, before a tree ever falls. Many policies exclude “maintenance neglect.”

What If the Tree Falls on a Neighbor’s Property?

It happens more than you’d think.

If your healthy tree falls in a storm and lands in a neighbor’s yard, you’re usually not liable. But if the tree was obviously rotting or had dead limbs, you may be responsible for their damages.

Always document maintenance, especially for trees near fences or property lines. A quick trim today might save you from a lawsuit later.

Dealing With Power Lines, Roads, and Emergency Hazards

Trees that touch infrastructure change the rules.

• Call PG&E immediately if power lines are affected
• If a public road or sidewalk is blocked, alert Sonoma County Public Works
• Do not attempt to cut or climb trees near utilities

City or county crews may need to respond before your own tree service can begin.

City vs. County Rules: Permits, Cleanup, and Notices

In Sonoma County, some trees require a removal permit, even after falling.

Permit triggers may include:

• Protected species like valley oaks or redwoods
• Trees in designated scenic corridors
• Trees within creek setbacks or conservation zones

Always call the Planning Department before removing root balls or stumps. Violations can lead to fines or stop-work orders.

Protecting Yourself With Documentation

After a tree falls, your phone is your best friend.

• Photograph all angles (base, trunk, canopy, impact area)
• Capture weather conditions and surrounding landscape
• Record neighbor interactions, if applicable

This documentation helps with insurance, permits, and any legal claims down the line.

What Arborists Look for After the Fall

A certified arborist can spot what you might miss.

• Was the tree diseased or decayed?
• Are other nearby trees at risk?
• Was the soil loose, eroded, or overwatered?

Their report can support your insurance claim or help you argue against liability. It also gives peace of mind for future storms.

How to Prevent the Next Fall (and Future Claims)

Fallen trees often come with warning signs. Regular care makes a huge difference.

Prevention tips:

• Schedule annual inspections for mature trees
• Trim back limbs hanging near your home
• Watch for fungus, deep cracks, or tilting trunks
• Avoid heavy pruning in summer or drought months

Did You Know? Overwatering during dry months can make roots shallow, which makes the tree easier to topple in storms.

Sonoma County’s Tree Policy: What Homeowners Should Know

Sonoma County protects certain trees even after they fall.

Before removing a stump, root system, or downed tree near a waterway, check the zoning rules. Some trees are protected for habitat or erosion control.

Special considerations:

• Scenic tree corridors
• Landmark tree designations
• Trees affecting protected animal habitats

What People Often Miss (And Why It Matters)

It’s easy to focus on the tree, but the real damage might be underneath.

• Roots may have lifted driveways or underground pipes
• Soil saturation can cause nearby trees to become unstable
• Insurance adjusters may not notice structural damage right away

An expert eye helps you catch these problems before they become more costly.

Quick Reference Table: Who to Contact and When

Questions Sonoma Homeowners Are Googling Right Now

What should I do first when a tree falls on my property?

Stay safe. Avoid the area, especially if wires are down. Take photos, document the scene, then call your insurance and a tree expert.

Do I need a permit to remove a fallen tree in Sonoma County?

It depends on the location and type of tree. Some trees, especially protected species or those near creeks and conservation areas, still require a permit even after falling. It’s always a good idea to check with Permit Sonoma first. One wrong move can cause more damage or injury. Better to bring in a pro.

What does an arborist do after a tree falls?

They’ll examine the fallen tree for signs of disease, weak spots, or root trouble. Then they’ll look at nearby trees too, just in case something else is at risk. It’s a smart step to avoid another surprise later.

What’s the smartest way to avoid this in the future?

Have a professional check your trees now and then to spot issues early. Healthy soil, proper watering, and pruning long or weak branches can make a big difference. The goal is to catch problems before they turn into emergencies.

Don’t Wait for It to Happen Again

A fallen tree isn’t just a cleanup job. It’s a wake-up call. Between the risk of property damage, safety issues, and legal responsibilities, staying prepared is the smartest move.

Don’t wait until the weather turns rough again. If something feels off, get someone who knows trees to take a look. It’s not just about removing a tree hazard – it’s about keeping your property and family safe.

Still unsure about something? SkyView Tree Experts is just a call away. Based in Rohnert Park, we help homeowners across Sonoma County handle tree emergencies quickly, safely, and with care.