Fresno, CA Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)
Key Facts
- Street Clearance
- 14 ft clearance over street
- Sidewalk Clearance
- 8 ft clearance over sidewalk
- Street Tree Removal
- Street tree removal needs Urban Forestry permit
- Heritage Tree
- Heritage tree policy for oaks/sycamores
- Neighbor Trimming
- Neighbors can trim overhang to property line
Summary
Street trees in the Fresno public right-of-way are jointly the responsibility of the property owner and the city Urban Forestry division. Property owners must maintain 14-foot clearance over streets and 8 feet over sidewalks under FMC §13-605. Removal or major pruning of street trees and protected trees requires a permit from Urban Forestry.
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
Fresno Urban Forestry (under Public Works) manages approximately 250,000 street trees. Property owners are responsible for maintenance pruning of street trees in front of their property, including clearance of 14 feet over the street and 8 feet over sidewalks and driveways, under FMC §13-605. Removal or major pruning beyond maintenance requires a permit, typically free but requires application and sometimes replacement. Protected tree species (oak, sycamore, and heritage-size trees over a certain diameter) on private property may have additional protection under Fresno's Heritage Tree policy. Dead, diseased, or dangerous trees can be removed with a certified arborist report. Topping (lion-tailing or severe heading) is discouraged and can void warranty with Urban Forestry replacement. Neighbors may trim overhanging branches and roots up to the property line at their own expense under CA Civil Code §§829 and §834 but cannot harm the tree.
Violations & Fines
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Fresno code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cut down the street tree in front of my Fresno house?
Can I trim my neighbor's tree overhanging my Fresno yard?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Fresno
California rules heatmap·Compare Fresno to another location·View the California landscaping rules overview
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Tree Trimming in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Fresno County handle tree trimming.