Tree Protection in Santa Cruz County, CA (2026)
1 rule for unincorporated Santa Cruz County, California.
Verified from official government sources
Note: These county rules apply to unincorporated areas of Santa Cruz County. If you live within an incorporated city, that city's own rules apply: see the city list below.
Parkway Planting
Homeowners in unincorporated Santa Cruz County can plant in the parkway strip between the sidewalk and the curb without an encroachment permit under SCCC § 9.70.050(A)(1)(c), as long as the plantings don't create a traffic hazard, block normal road maintenance, or impede pedestrians. The Public Works Director can order removal of any planting that later violates those conditions.
Santa Cruz County Parkway Planting Rule
Light RestrictionsSanta Cruz County Code § 9.70.050(A)(1)(c), (B)
(1) Exceptions. When so placed or done as not to constitute a traffic hazard, nor interfere with normal road maintenance, the following things are authorized in a County-maintained road without a permit: ... (c) Plantings in a parkway area behind a curb or flow line, when so maintained as not to hinder or impede pedestrian traffic. (B) The Director may, in the manner provided in this chapter, r...
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