Tree Trimming: Rohnert Park vs Santa Rosa
How do tree trimming rules compare between Rohnert Park, CA and Santa Rosa, CA?
Santa Rosa has fewer restrictions than Rohnert Park.
Rohnert Park, CA
Sonoma County
Sonoma County regulates tree removal through the Tree Protection Ordinance (Zoning Code Sec. 26-88-010(m)) and Heritage/Landmark Tree Ordinance (Chapter 26D), and separately requires lower-limb pruning to 6 feet under the Chapter 13A defensible-space rules.
View full Rohnert Park rules →Santa Rosa, CA
Sonoma County
Santa Rosa requires property owners to maintain trees so they do not obstruct sidewalks, streets, or sight lines. Branches must be trimmed to at least 8 feet over sidewalks and 14 feet over streets.
View full Santa Rosa rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Rohnert Park | Santa Rosa |
|---|---|---|
| Tree Protection Code | Sec. 26-88-010(m) | - |
| Heritage Tree Chapter | Chapter 26D (Ord. 3651, 1986) | - |
| Protected Species (2024 update) | 31 species at 6 in. dbh | - |
| Use Permit Threshold | Hardwoods 36 in. dbh / Redwoods 48 in. dbh | - |
| Defensible-Space Limb-Up | 6 ft from ground | - |
| Sidewalk Clearance | - | 8 feet minimum |
| Street Clearance | - | 14 feet minimum |
| Protected Trees | - | Permit may be required |
| Street Trees | - | City maintained |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Rohnert Park FAQ
Do I need a permit to cut down a tree on my property?
If the tree is a protected species at or above the regulated diameter under Sec. 26-88-010(m) (currently 31 species at 6 in. dbh after the April 2024 update) or is a designated heritage or landmark tree under Chapter 26D, yes.
What about pruning for fire safety?
Chapter 13A defensible-space rules require limbing tree branches up at least 6 feet from the ground and clearing branches within 10 feet of chimneys; these prunings do not require a tree permit.
Are there exemptions for dead or hazardous trees?
Permit Sonoma exempts removals for defensible-space compliance and dead, dying, or diseased trees within 100 feet of structures.
Santa Rosa FAQ
Am I responsible for trimming street trees in Santa Rosa?
Property owners must trim trees on their property that overhang public areas. The city maintains trees planted in the public right-of-way.
How much clearance do branches need over sidewalks?
Branches must be trimmed to at least 8 feet over sidewalks and 14 feet over streets.
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