Tree Trimming: Rohnert Park vs Sonoma
How do tree trimming rules compare between Rohnert Park, CA and Sonoma, CA?
Rohnert Park and Sonoma have similar restriction levels.
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 →Sonoma, CA
Sonoma County
Sonoma Municipal Code Chapter 12.08 (Tree Ordinance) regulates pruning, alteration, and removal of public and 'significant' trees in the City of Sonoma. Pruning of public trees and any alteration/removal of significant trees requires a permit, with ISA-certified arborist standards under SMC § 12.08.060.
View full Sonoma rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Rohnert Park | Sonoma |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Code chapter | - | SMC Ch. 12.08 |
| Public-tree pruning | - | Permit required (§ 12.08.030) |
| Significant-tree removal | - | Permit required (§ 12.08.050) |
| Arborist report (new development) | - | Required, ISA-certified (§ 12.08.035) |
| Light private pruning | - | < 30 % canopy generally exempt |
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.
Sonoma FAQ
Do I need a permit to trim the oak in my back yard?
Only if it qualifies as a 'significant tree' under SMC § 12.08.032 (typically based on species, diameter at breast height, and location). For ordinary private trees, light maintenance pruning that removes less than about 30 % of the canopy is generally exempt. Topping is prohibited under SMC § 12.08.060 pruning standards regardless of permit status.
Can I prune the city street tree in front of my house?
No, not without a permit. Under SMC § 12.08.030, all work on public trees — including pruning — requires a permit from the city. Contact Public Works to request inspection or scheduled maintenance.
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