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🌿 Landscaping Rules/Tree Trimming

Tree Trimming: San Mateo vs South San Francisco

How do tree trimming rules compare between San Mateo, CA and South San Francisco, CA?

San Mateo and South San Francisco have similar restriction levels.

San Mateo, CA

San Mateo County

Some Restrictions

Private tree trimming in San Mateo does not require a city permit. Street trees (public right-of-way) require permission from the Parks Division. Trees must not encroach on adjacent properties or utilities without proper trimming.

View full San Mateo rules β†’

South San Francisco, CA

San Mateo County

Some Restrictions

Private tree trimming in South San Francisco does not require a city permit. Street trees (public right-of-way) require Public Works approval. Trees near PG&E lines must be managed per utility clearance standards.

View full South San Francisco rules β†’

Key Facts Comparison

FactSan MateoSouth San Francisco
Private TreesNo permit needed for trimmingNo city permit needed for trimming
Street TreesParks Division approval requiredPublic Works approval required
Utility LinesCoordinate with PG&ECoordinate with PG&E
ContactPublic Works (650) 522-7300Public Works (650) 829-6652

Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

San Mateo FAQ

Can I trim tree branches that hang over my property in San Mateo?

Private tree trimming in San Mateo does not require a city permit. Street trees (public right-of-way) require permission from the Parks Division. Trees must not encroach on adjacent properties or utilities without proper trimming.

Do I need a permit to trim trees in San Mateo?

Private Trees: No permit needed for trimming. Street Trees: Parks Division approval required. Utility Lines: Coordinate with PG&E. Contact: Public Works (650) 522-7300.

South San Francisco FAQ

Can I trim tree branches that hang over my property in South San Francisco?

Private tree trimming in South San Francisco does not require a city permit. Street trees (public right-of-way) require Public Works approval. Trees near PG&E lines must be managed per utility clearance standards.

Do I need a permit to trim trees in South San Francisco?

Private Trees: No city permit needed for trimming. Street Trees: Public Works approval required. Utility Lines: Coordinate with PG&E. Contact: Public Works (650) 829-6652.

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