Ojai, CA Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)
Key Facts
- Sidewalk Clearance
- 8 feet vertical
- Street Clearance
- 14 feet vertical
- Oak Pruning
- Permit required for >25% canopy
- Fire Safety
- 6-foot limb-up in VHFHSZ
Summary
Property owners in Ojai are responsible for trimming trees that overhang public sidewalks (8-foot clearance) and streets (14-foot clearance). Protected oak trees require a permit before pruning more than 25% of the canopy.
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
Property owners must maintain 8-foot vertical clearance over sidewalks and 14-foot clearance over streets for trees on their property. Street trees in the public right-of-way are maintained by the city. Protected native oaks (Valley Oak, Coast Live Oak) may not have more than 25% of their canopy removed without a tree permit. Ojai's heritage oaks are a defining visual feature of the valley. Tree trimming for defensible space (6-foot limb-up from ground) is required in the VHFHSZ. Utility line clearance is managed by Southern California Edison.
Violations & Fines
Failure to maintain clearance: written notice with 30-day compliance. Unauthorized oak pruning: fines of $500-$10,000 per tree. Damage to city street trees: cost of replacement plus penalties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I trim my oak tree?
Who trims street trees?
What about fire safety trimming?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Ojai
California rules heatmap·Compare Ojai to another location·View the California landscaping rules overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.
Tree Trimming in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Ventura County handle tree trimming.