How Redwood City Handles Landscaping Rules: A Practical Guide

Redwood City maintains 38 local ordinances across all categories, and 4 of those deal specifically with landscaping rules. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Redwood City falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Water Restrictions

Redwood City is served by Cal Water (California Water Service). Outdoor watering restrictions apply under state drought regulations. Year-round water waste prohibitions include no runoff and no irrigation within 48 hours of measurable rain.

Key details: Water Provider: Cal Water (San Mateo District). Watering Hours: Before 10 AM or after 5 PM (summer). Rain Rule: No watering within 48 hours of rain. Runoff: Prohibited.

Water waste: warning, then fines $100 to $500. Drought violations: escalating fines. Water district may impose surcharges.

Grass Height Limits

Redwood City requires property owners to maintain their lots free of overgrown weeds and high grass that create fire hazards or nuisances. Code Enforcement responds to complaints about unmaintained properties.

Key details: Standard: No overgrowth creating fire hazard or nuisance. Enforcement: Code Enforcement (650) 780-7577. Process: Notice → cure → city abatement at owner cost. Fire Hazard Season: Spring–Fall.

Notice to abate. City abatement at owner’s expense ($200 to $1,000+). Administrative fees. Property lien for non-payment.

Tree Trimming

Private tree trimming on private property does not require a city permit in Redwood City. Trees near overhead utility lines may require coordination with PG&E. Street trees require city approval before any work.

Key details: Private Trees: No city permit needed for trimming. Street Trees: City approval required before any work. Utility Lines: Coordinate with PG&E. Contact: Parks Division (650) 780-7000.

Unauthorized removal of protected tree: $1,000 to $25,000+ per tree. Replacement planting required. Criminal charges possible.

Tree Removal & Heritage Trees

Private tree removal on private property generally does not require a Redwood City permit. Street tree removal requires city approval. Large or heritage trees may require review under the city's Urban Forest Management Program.

Key details: Private Trees: Generally no city permit required. Street Trees: City approval required. Near Creeks: Additional review may be required. Contact: Parks Division (650) 780-7000.

Unauthorized removal: $500 to $10,000 per tree. Replacement planting required. Street tree damage: city restitution costs.

The Bottom Line

Redwood City's landscaping rules rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Redwood City is broadly strict or permissive.

These rules come from Redwood City's publicly available municipal code. For complete penalty schedules, exemption details, and answers to common questions, see the individual ordinance pages throughout this guide.