Perris, CA Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)

For everyday yard trees on private property, Perris does not impose routine trimming permits, but it sets clear standards in two places. Chapter 19.71 (Urban Forestry Establishment and Care) defines pruning methods and standards: 'crown raising pruning' removes lower branches for clearance, with street-tree minimum clearances specified by ordinance, and after pruning the living crown should be at least two-thirds of total tree height. 'Crown reduction pruning' is treated as a method of last resort. The chapter directs proper, arborist-guided care and discourages topping. For fire-safety and weed-abatement parcels, PMC 7.08.045 gives a hard numeric standard: 'Trees located on the property shall be trimmed to their trunk at least eight feet above the level of the ground surface.' Work on city street trees, parkway trees, and other public trees is controlled by the city: PMC 19.71.090 makes it unlawful to harm, destroy, or remove any tree on public land or to nail or fasten objects penetrating the cambium. Private owners must follow applicable requirements and may need an arborist report for protected trees. EMWD and the city also emphasize deep, efficient watering at the dripline (PMC 19.71.060) to keep trees healthy. There is no statewide private tree-trimming permit in California; rules are local.