Sign up for a shift to watch our trees!

You can show up for an hour, or even less at any of the 11 sites this weekend into early next week, staying onsite and monitoring activity. Sidewalks are public property. Documentation of activities is critical evidence. Even a quick check-in is immensely helpful.

Sign up for shifts here.

Please protest peacefully.

Know Your Rights as a Tree Watch Observer

Where you can be
Sidewalks and public rights-of-way are public spaces. You have the right to stand, observe, and document on the public sidewalk. You do not need a permit to be present on a public sidewalk as a bystander or observer.

What you can do
You can film, photograph, and document anything visible from the public right-of-way. Recording people in public spaces - including workers and contractors - is legal in California. Do not block access, traffic, or work vehicles, as that can shift liability to you.

The chainsaw threat
Threatening someone with a weapon - even a tool like a chainsaw - may constitute criminal threatening or assault (placing someone in fear of imminent harm). If this happens, observers should:

  • Write down exactly what was said/done, time, and any witnesses
  • File a police report (even if you think they won't act, it creates a record)
  • Document with video if it ever happens again

What workers/contractors can and cannot do
They cannot physically remove you from a public sidewalk. Only law enforcement can do that, and only if you're actually obstructing. They cannot seize your phone or camera. If someone tries to intimidate or physically block observers, document and call 911.

If police are called on you
Stay calm, don't argue. You can say: "I am standing on a public sidewalk and I am not blocking access." You are not required to leave a public sidewalk unless a lawful order is given and a specific violation explained.

Practical tips for shifts

  • Go in pairs when possible
  • Keep phones charged and video-ready
  • Don't engage or argue with workers - just observe and document
  • Note truck license plates, company names, and contractor badges
  • Have a group contact/coordinator to call if things escalate