Parkway Planting: Altadena vs South Gate

Can I plant a fruit tree in my parkway?

Generally no. The Street Tree Master Plan favors low-maintenance shade species. Some communities allow citrus on case-by-case approval, but messy fruit and root issues usually disqualify them in standard parkway strips under DPW review.

Who pays for parkway tree maintenance?

Adjacent property owners share routine watering and minor pruning duties. DPW handles structural pruning, sidewalk damage repair where roots cause uplift, and removal of dead or hazardous trees with prior written approval.

Can I plant my own tree in the parkway in front of my house?

Not without a permit. SGMC Chapter 5.33 explicitly prohibits planting in the public right-of-way without first obtaining a permit from the Director of Public Works and paying the required fee. The species, size, and location must conform to the Street Tree Master Plan.

Who maintains the parkway tree once it is planted?

South Gate Public Works maintains parkway trees per the citywide tree-service schedule, including pruning cycles and replacement of failed trees. Residents are encouraged to water newly planted parkway trees during the 2–3 year establishment period, but pruning or removal still requires a Public Works permit.

Can I plant flowers or shrubs in the parkway?

Parkway landscaping other than approved street trees may also require permission. Check with Public Works first — and note that any planting must preserve the Public Works clear sight zone, ADA pedestrian path of travel on the sidewalk, and not interfere with the protected zone of an existing public tree (a 5.33 violation).