Tree Pruning And Removal Services

The City of Palo Alto Public Works Department is soliciting bids under RFQ 198038 for a Minor Public Works Contract to provide tree pruning and removal services. The scope of work includes the pruning, removal, stump grinding, and maintenance of trees, palms, and woody plants across street and parkway areas, park and facility areas, and open space reserves. Key deliverables include the removal of diseased or decayed branches and the timely completion of stump grinding orders, with non-urgent requests due within five working days and sidewalk-related repairs within three working days. All work must comply with ANSI Z-1331 safety standards and California MUTCD traffic control regulations. The contract will be awarded to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder based on the total pricing for years one through five. Qualified bidders must hold a valid California Contractor’s License and provide a lead climber serving as Crew Foreman who is an ISA Certified Arborist or a Western Chapter ISA Certified Tree Worker. Bids must be submitted electronically via the OpenGov portal by September 9, 2026, at 3:00 pm. Financial and legal requirements include compliance with California prevailing wage laws and the provision of payment and performance bonds if the contract sum exceeds 25,000 dollars. The City may retain 5 percent of monthly progress payments as retention. Performance is monitored by a City Inspector using a rating system of Needs Improvement, Unsatisfactory, or Failure to Comply, with specific correction timelines for deficiencies. Contractors are also required to follow the City's Environmental Purchasing Policy and ensure all vehicles display specific City of Palo Alto Urban Forestry Contractor signage.