Garden Grove Tree Trimming Rules (2026): What You Need to Know

Garden Grove's municipal code Chapter 11.16 establishes the city's authority over trees and shrubs located within public rights-of-way, parkways, medians, and other city-owned property. The Public Works Department is responsible for the maintenance, trimming, and removal of all public trees on a scheduled rotation. Residents are strictly prohibited from trimming branches, cutting roots, attaching objects to, or removing any tree on public property. If a public tree is causing damage to a sidewalk, driveway, or sewer line, residents should report the issue to Public Works for assessment rather than taking independent action.

For trees on private property, Garden Grove property owners generally have the right to trim and maintain their own trees without a permit. However, removal of mature trees or trees that exceed certain size thresholds may require prior approval from the city, particularly if the removal is associated with a development project or grading permit. The city evaluates tree removal requests based on the species, size, health, and ecological value of the tree, as well as whether the removal is necessitated by construction, disease, or legitimate safety concerns. Replacement planting may be required as a condition of approval.

Garden Grove's position in Orange County's coastal plain provides a relatively mild year-round climate, but drought conditions and water restrictions have made tree species selection an important consideration. The city encourages residents to plant drought-tolerant species such as coast live oaks, California sycamores, and other native or adapted varieties that require minimal supplemental irrigation once established. When planting in parkway strips, residents must select from the city's approved street tree list to ensure compatibility with infrastructure.