Owners maintain trees on their own property in San Rafael; street trees and protected/heritage trees are managed by the city, which requires approval before pruning or removing them.
San Rafael keeps tree responsibilities split the usual way: what grows on your lot is yours to maintain, while street trees and designated protected or heritage trees are under the city's wing. Public works must sign off before anyone prunes or removes a street tree, and heritage trees carry their own approval requirements even when they stand on private land. Owners are also expected to keep branches trimmed back over sidewalks and streets so pedestrians and vehicles can pass. If a tree near your property line looks like it might be city-managed, check before cutting.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
San Rafael, CA
§19.20.080(4) prohibits the use of amplified sound in city parks and buildings without a permit. Combined with the citywide §8.13 noise limits, this is the m...
San Rafael, CA
Parking or storing large commercial vehicles in San Rafael residential zones is restricted by zoning, with weight/length thresholds limiting what may be kept...
San Rafael, CA
RV, trailer and boat storage on residential lots in San Rafael is regulated by zoning, which restricts placement and prohibits living in a parked RV. The cit...
San Rafael, CA
Driveway approaches in San Rafael require an encroachment permit and must meet city standards; vehicles generally must be parked on an approved paved surface...
San Rafael, CA
§5.40.040(1) makes it unlawful to repair or wash any motor vehicle on a city street. Routine driveway washing and minor home maintenance are not affected, bu...
San Rafael, CA
A building/zoning permit is generally required in San Rafael for fences over 6 feet or masonry/retaining walls; pool barrier fences must meet the California ...
See how San Rafael's tree trimming rules stack up against other locations.
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