Landscaping Rules in Santa Cruz, CA (2026)
5 verified landscaping rules for Santa Cruz, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Grass Height Limits
Santa Cruz Fire Code §304.1.3 (per §19.05.100) requires removal of weeds, grass, vines, or other growth capable of being ignited and endangering property, especially in Fire Hazard Severity Zones.
Santa Cruz Weed and Property Maintenance
Some RestrictionsTree Trimming
Santa Cruz §9.56.060 requires permits for any significant work that affects designated Heritage Trees or Heritage Shrubs. §9.56.090 requires a state tree-care license for work on protected trees.
Santa Cruz Tree Trimming and Pruning
Some RestrictionsTree Removal & Heritage Trees
The City of Santa Cruz has a Heritage Tree ordinance requiring a permit to remove heritage or significant trees, even on private property, with replacement required. Street-tree removal requires city approval.
Landscaping: Tree Removal
Heavy RestrictionsWeed Ordinances
Santa Cruz Fire Code §304.1.3 (per §19.05.100) requires removal of weeds, grass, vines, brush, or other vegetation that constitutes a fire or safety hazard, especially in wildfire risk areas.
Santa Cruz Vegetation and Fire Fuel Abatement
Some RestrictionsWater Restrictions
Santa Cruz Municipal Code §16.02.040 bans irrigating turf, gardens, and ornamental landscape between 10:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. except by drip or hand-held shutoff nozzle, and prohibits runoff and other wasteful uses.
Santa Cruz Water Waste Prohibitions
Heavy RestrictionsSanta Cruz Municipal Code §16.02.040(a)(11)
Use of potable water to irrigate turf, lawns, gardens, or ornamental landscaping between 10:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. unless by drip irrigation, or by hand watering with a quick acting positive shut off nozzle. (Exceptions may be made by the director for professional gardeners where there is no ability to not water between 10:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.)
Looking for Santa Cruz County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Santa Cruz city rules.
Landscaping Rules in Santa Cruz County →