Tree Removal & Heritage Trees: El Cajon vs San Diego
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between El Cajon, CA and San Diego, CA?
El Cajon has fewer restrictions than San Diego.
El Cajon, CA
San Diego County
El Cajon does not have a heritage tree ordinance or a permit requirement for removing trees on private residential property. Property owners may generally remove trees without city approval unless the tree is within a public right-of-way or is a condition of a development approval.
View full El Cajon rules →San Diego, CA
San Diego County
San Diego requires permits for removing or encroaching upon protected trees under SDMC 142.0403-142.0413. Heritage trees (large specimen trees) have additional protections. Trees removed must be replaced at specified ratios. Development projects must incorporate tree preservation plans.
View full San Diego rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | El Cajon | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Heritage Tree Ordinance | None — El Cajon has no tree ordinance | - |
| Private Trees | Generally no permit required | - |
| Street Trees | City permission required | - |
| Development Trees | Protected by project conditions | - |
| Public Works | 619-441-1652 | - |
| Permit Required | - | Protected trees |
| Heritage Trees | - | Extra protections |
| Replacement Ratio | - | 1:1 to 3:1 |
| Stump Height | - | Max 8 inches |
| Code Section | - | SDMC 142.0403-142.0413 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
El Cajon FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in El Cajon?
Generally no. El Cajon does not have a heritage tree ordinance. Private property owners may remove trees without a city permit in most cases. Street trees require city authorization.
Are any trees protected in El Cajon?
Trees required as conditions of development approvals are protected. Street trees in the public right-of-way cannot be removed without city permission from Public Works.
Who handles street tree issues in El Cajon?
The Public Works Department manages street trees. Contact them at 619-441-1652 for issues with trees in the public right-of-way.
San Diego FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree on my property in San Diego?
Yes, for protected trees (those in MSCP areas, Environmentally Sensitive Lands, or designated heritage trees). Standard ornamental trees in developed residential areas may not require a permit.
What is the tree replacement requirement?
Typically 1:1 to 3:1 ratio depending on species and size, or payment into the City's tree mitigation fund as an alternative.
Compare other topics
See how El Cajon and San Diego compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool