Ventura County, CA Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)

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). In the non-coastal zone, protected trees include all oaks and sycamores 9.5 inches or larger in circumference measured at least 4.5 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.