San Antonio, TX Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)

Oak wilt caused by Bretziella fagacearum is one of the most destructive tree diseases in Central Texas, and Bexar County sits in the heart of the affected zone. The Texas A&M Forest Service and Texas Plant Disease Program recommend avoiding all pruning of red oaks, live oaks, and related species during the high-risk window from February through June, when nitidulid beetles that spread the fungus are active. When pruning is unavoidable, all cuts should be sealed immediately with wound paint. San Antonio's tree preservation ordinance inside the Unified Development Code protects heritage and significant trees during development and limits crown reduction without a permit on regulated sites. CPS Energy maintains line clearance around overhead utilities and may trim without owner permission within its easement. HOAs commonly require professional arborists for large trimming work. In unincorporated areas there is no trimming permit, but oak wilt guidance applies universally and neighbors can claim nuisance for encroaching branches they may cut back to the property line.