Tree Trimming: Costa Mesa vs Fullerton

Who maintains street trees in Costa Mesa?

The Public Services Department maintains city-owned street trees. Contact them for service requests. Do not trim or remove city trees without approval.

Am I responsible for trees on my property?

Yes. Private trees are your sole responsibility, including ensuring they don't obstruct sidewalks or streets and removing hazardous trees.

What if a neighbor's tree is encroaching on my property?

You may trim branches that extend over your property line. For disputes, California law allows you to trim to the property line at your own expense.

There's a parkway tree blocking my driveway sight line - can I just trim it?

No. Trimming or removing a street tree without a permit from the Maintenance Services Department violates FMC 9.06.100 and can result in a fine plus the replacement-value charge. Submit a service request to the Public Works Tree Services Inspector instead - hazard trimming can be assigned out of cycle.

Am I responsible for watering the tree the city planted in my parkway?

Yes for the first three years after planting. FMC 9.06.070 requires the abutting property owner to water newly planted street trees during the three-year establishment period, remove weeds at the base, and avoid compacting the soil or attaching anything to the trunk.

Can I trim a tree on my own private property?

Yes - FMC 9.06 covers trees in the parkway and public right-of-way, not trees entirely on private land. Private trees are still subject to Fire Department brush-clearance rules, defensible-space requirements (PRC 4291) in mapped fire-hazard zones, and Civil Code nuisance / boundary-tree provisions.

What happens if my neighbor cut down a city street tree?

Removal without a permit is a code violation. The City can charge the replacement value of the tree (ISA-appraised) to the responsible party in addition to citation. Report unauthorized removals to the Maintenance Services Department.