Chula Vista, CA Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)

Property owners in Chula Vista may trim trees on their own private property for routine maintenance without a permit, including removing dead branches, shaping for aesthetics, and maintaining clearance. However, excessive pruning that effectively destroys a protected tree may be treated as unauthorized removal. Public street trees are exclusively maintained by the city's Urban Forestry division within Public Works. Residents should not trim, remove branches, or apply any treatment to street trees without city authorization. To request street tree maintenance, contact the Public Works Department at (619) 397-6000. Trees within or adjacent to MSCP preserve areas are subject to biological resource protections and may require approval before trimming. During bird nesting season (February through September), California Fish and Game Code sections 3503 and 3503.5 protect active nests — tree trimming should avoid disturbing nesting birds. Neighbor disputes over overhanging branches are governed by California Civil Code, which allows a property owner to trim branches that overhang their property line.