Ventura County, CA Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- NCZO 8107-25 (Tree Protection Ordinance)
- Protected oaks/sycamores
- 9.5+ inch circumference at 4.5 ft height
- Any species protected
- 90+ inch circumference
- Protected zone
- 5 ft outside canopy; min 15 ft from trunk
- Permit forms
- Tree Doc M (ministerial) / Doc D-AR (discretionary)
- Planning contact
- RMA Planning, (805) 654-2494
Summary
Trimming a protected tree in unincorporated Ventura County can require a tree permit. Pruning oaks, sycamores, and other protected trees beyond specified limits, or encroaching into the protected zone, is regulated under the County Tree Protection Ordinance (Non-Coastal Zoning Ordinance section 8107-25).
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
Ventura County's Tree Protection Ordinance regulates not only removal but also pruning beyond specified limits, trenching, excavation, and other encroachment into the protected zone of a protected tree in the unincorporated areas. The ordinance is administered by the Resource Management Agency Planning Division under Non-Coastal Zoning Ordinance section 8107-25 (and section 8178-7 in the Coastal Zone). 5 feet above the ground, any tree 90 inches or larger in circumference, historically designated trees of any species, and native trees within Scenic Resources Protection (SRP) overlay zones.
The protected zone is defined as the area extending five feet outside the canopy's edge and a minimum of 15 feet from the trunk. Routine light pruning of a healthy ornamental, non-protected tree generally does not need a permit, but heavy pruning of a protected oak or sycamore can require a ministerial tree permit (Tree Doc M) or, for larger work, a discretionary permit supported by an arborist report. Separately, the Ventura County Fire Protection District requires trees near structures to have lower branches trimmed and foliage kept clear of chimneys for defensible space. Always confirm a tree's status with Planning before major trimming.
Violations & Fines
Pruning a protected tree beyond allowed limits without a required permit can result in code enforcement action, penalties, and required mitigation. Verify a tree's protected status with the RMA Planning Division before significant trimming.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to trim an oak tree in unincorporated Ventura County?
Are ornamental trees in my yard regulated?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Ventura County
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