Private tree trimming in unincorporated San Mateo County generally does not require a county permit. Trees near the public right-of-way may require an encroachment permit. Hillside trees on fire clearance areas must be managed.
Unincorporated San Mateo County does not require a general permit for trimming private trees on private property. Trees that overhang or encroach on the public right-of-way may require an encroachment permit from County Public Works (650-363-4100). Trees in fire hazard severity zones must be maintained to comply with defensible space requirements. Trees near PG&E power lines must be managed per utility clearance standards.
Unauthorized removal of protected tree: $1,000 to $25,000+ per tree. Replacement planting required. Criminal charges possible.
San Mateo County, CA
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San Mateo County, CA
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San Mateo County, CA
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San Mateo County, CA
Unincorporated San Mateo County enforces California Swimming Pool Safety Act (H&S Code Β§115920-115929) and CBC Chapter 31B. Minimum 60-inch barrier, self-clo...
San Mateo County, CA
Unincorporated San Mateo County requires building permits for retaining walls over 4 feet measured from bottom of footing to top of wall, per California Buil...
San Mateo County, CA
Unincorporated San Mateo County allows backyard chickens on residential parcels of at least 2,500 sq ft under the County Zoning Regulations. 2,500 to 7,500 s...
See how San Mateo County's tree trimming rules stack up against other locations.
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