Milpitas, CA Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)

Milpitas separates trees into private, protected/heritage, and street-tree categories. Per the City's Residential Tree Maintenance guidance, 'any tree branch that is under 2 inches in diameter may be trimmed by property owner.' Larger pruning of a protected or heritage tree, or any work on a street tree, requires a permit from Public Works. The City states it 'is unlawful for a resident to prune or remove a street tree,' and that trees in the public right-of-way 'cannot be planted, pruned, or removed without first securing a permit from the city.' Heritage trees, defined as an outstanding specimen or one of the largest or oldest trees in Milpitas, may not be pruned without first consulting Public Works and obtaining a permit. For plantings in the parkway strip, Milpitas Municipal Code X-2-6.02 limits permitted plantings to no more than two feet in height so they do not interfere with public facilities or approved street trees. Property owners remain responsible for maintaining their own (unapproved) trees and other plantings under MC X-2-5.04 and X-2-6.01. When unsure whether a tree is protected, residents should submit a service request or call Public Works at (408) 586-2600.