Santa Clara, CA Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)
Key Facts
- Street trees
- City owned, permit to prune
- Heritage threshold
- Species and trunk size based
- Routine private
- Under 25% canopy no permit
- Topping
- Prohibited on heritage trees
- Permit office
- Parks and Recreation
Summary
Santa Clara protects designated heritage and street trees. Routine trimming on private trees is allowed, but major work on protected trees requires a permit from the city.
(2) Remove that portion of a tree that extends within 10 feet of the outlet of a chimney or stovepipe. (3) Maintain a tree, shrub, or other plant adjacent to or overhanging a building free of dead or dying wood. (4) Maintain the roof of a structure free of leaves, needles, or other vegetative materials. (5) Before constructing a new building or structure or rebuilding a building or structure damaged by a fire in an area subject to this section, the construction or rebuilding of which requires a building permit, the owner shall obtain a certification from the local building official that the dwelling or structure, as proposed to be built, complies with all applicable state and local laws.
Full Breakdown
Santa Clara City Code Chapter 12.35 addresses trees within the public right-of-way and designated heritage trees. Street trees in the park strip between sidewalk and curb are typically city-owned and may not be trimmed, topped, or pruned by adjacent owners without a permit from the Parks and Recreation Department. Heritage trees above specified trunk sizes on private property are also regulated and require an arborist review for significant pruning. Routine maintenance pruning on non-heritage private trees, up to about 25 percent of canopy in a single year, generally does not require a permit. Utility clearance pruning by PG&E follows separate state rules. Never top trees; topping may be treated as destruction under the heritage tree code.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prune the street tree in front of my house?
Who pays for street tree maintenance?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Santa Clara
California rules heatmap·Compare Santa Clara to another location·View the California landscaping rules overview
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Tree Trimming in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Santa Clara County handle tree trimming.