San Marcos, CA Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)

San Marcos requires property owners to maintain trees on private property so they do not obstruct public sidewalks, streets, or sight lines at intersections. Minimum vertical clearances are 8 feet over sidewalks and pedestrian paths and 14 feet over vehicular roadways. Trees must not obstruct traffic signs, streetlights, or intersection visibility triangles. Property owners may trim their own trees at any time without a permit as long as the tree is on private property and is not a protected species. Trees overhanging from a neighbor's property may be trimmed back to the property line by the affected property owner under California Civil Code. City-maintained street trees in the public right-of-way are managed by the Public Works Department and may not be trimmed, removed, or altered without city authorization. Residents may request city tree maintenance by contacting Public Works. San Marcos has specific protections for certain heritage and native tree species that require permits before removal or significant pruning. Dead or hazardous trees should be reported to the city for evaluation. The eastern portions of San Marcos near wildland areas may have additional tree management requirements related to brush clearance and fire safety.