Parkway Planting: Carson vs South Gate

I want to plant a new tree in the strip in front of my Carson house. What do I do?

Apply to Carson Public Works for a parkway planting permit BEFORE buying or planting the tree. Public Works will confirm the location is suitable and identify which species from the Authorized List of Carson Trees (Exhibit A to the Parkway Tree Master Plan) the City Manager has designated for your parkway. Skipping the permit risks the City removing the tree at the Manager's discretion.

Can I plant any species I want as long as it's in the parkway?

No. Carson uses a positive list — only species on the Authorized List of Carson Trees may be planted in the right-of-way, and the City Manager picks which authorized species goes where. Planting a non-conforming species, even with a permit, can lead to removal and Chapter 9 misdemeanor enforcement ($1,000 or appraised value).

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).