Fullerton, CA Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)

Fullerton is widely known for its tree-lined streets, and the city's urban forestry program reflects the community's strong commitment to its tree canopy. City-owned trees in parkways, medians, and public rights-of-way are maintained by the Public Works Department's Maintenance Services Division on a regular trimming cycle. Residents should not trim, prune, or alter city-owned trees in the parkway without prior authorization from Public Works. Requests for city tree trimming can be submitted through the city's maintenance request system or by calling Public Works at (714) 738-6897. Property owners are responsible for maintaining trees on private property so that branches do not obstruct sidewalks (minimum 8-foot clearance), streets (minimum 14-foot clearance), or sight lines at intersections and driveways. Overhanging branches that interfere with utility lines should be reported to the utility provider, not trimmed by the property owner. Trees on private property that overhang neighboring properties are subject to California Civil Code provisions allowing the neighbor to trim branches to the property line at their own expense. Fullerton encourages professional arborist services for significant tree work and may require a tree removal permit for mature or heritage-sized trees as outlined in the city's tree preservation policies.