Costa Mesa, CA Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)
Key Facts
- City Trees
- Maintained by Public Services
- Private Trees
- Owner's responsibility
- Hazardous Trees
- Owner must remove
- Street Obstruction
- Must be cleared by owner
Summary
Costa Mesa maintains city-owned street trees through the Public Works Department. Private trees on residential property are the owner's responsibility. Trees must not obstruct sidewalks, streets, or create hazardous conditions for neighbors.
4291. (a) A person who owns, leases, controls, operates, or maintains a building or structure in the state responsibility area shall at all times do all of the following: (1) (A) Maintain defensible space of 100 feet from each side and from the front and rear of the structure, but not beyond the property line, except as provided in subparagraph (B). The amount of fuel modification necessary shall consider the flammability of the structure as affected by building material, building standards, location, and type of vegetation. Fuels shall be maintained and spaced in a condition so that a wildfire would be unlikely to ignite the structure.
Full Breakdown
The City of Costa Mesa maintains street trees and trees on public property through its Public Services Department. Residents should not trim, remove, or damage city street trees without prior approval. Private trees on residential property are the property owner's sole responsibility to maintain. Property owners must ensure private trees do not obstruct sidewalks, streets, or sight lines at intersections. Dead, diseased, or hazardous trees must be removed at the owner's expense. Trees overhanging neighboring properties or creating hazards may generate code enforcement complaints. New development landscaping must meet the landscaping standards in CMMC, including irrigation requirements.
Violations & Fines
Unauthorized work on city trees may result in fines and restitution. Private tree failures causing hazards are the owner's liability. Code Enforcement addresses complaints about hazardous private trees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who maintains street trees in Costa Mesa?
Am I responsible for trees on my property?
What if a neighbor's tree is encroaching on my property?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Costa Mesa
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