Tree Protection in El Cajon, CA (2026)
2 verified tree protection rules for El Cajon, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Protected Tree Species
El Cajon does not protect tree species by blanket rule. Instead the city council individually designates "landmark trees" on city-owned property under Municipal Code Section 9.56.150, based on species rarity, old age, historic association, abnormality, or scenic value, and a designated tree can be removed only after council approval.
El Cajon Landmark Tree Protection
Significant RestrictionsEl Cajon Municipal Code § 9.56.150
A. The city council may designate as a "landmark tree" any tree on city property for the purpose of protecting trees of historic value or unusual qualities from damage or destruction. B. A tree may qualify for the designation of landmark tree if it meets one or more of the following criteria; species rarity, old age, association with a historical event or person, abnormality or scenic enhanceme...
Parkway Planting
Planting a tree in El Cajon's public parkway strip requires a permit from the city manager or designee under Municipal Code Section 9.56.060(H), and the tree must come from the city's permissible parkway tree list unless the city manager approves an exception in writing. A separate permit is required to excavate or build within fifteen feet of any city tree.
El Cajon Parkway Tree Planting Permits
Some RestrictionsEl Cajon, CA, Municipal Code Sec. 9.56.060(H)-(I) (Prohibited Actions - Tree Planting Permit)
No person shall cut or otherwise injure trees, shrubs or landscaping in any public area within the city without the express written consent of the city manager or designee. It is also unlawful for any person, without the express written consent of the city manager or designee, to: ... H. Plant or set out any tree within the public right-of-way without first procuring a permit from the city mana...
Looking for San Diego County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement El Cajon city rules.
Tree Protection in San Diego County →