West Sacramento, CA Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)
Key Facts
- Trigger diameter
- 5 inches
- Permit issued by
- Tree administrator
- Utility exemption
- Repairs and safety work
- Also covers
- Heritage and landmark trees
Summary
Trimming or pruning a branch five inches or larger from a West Sacramento street tree requires a tree permit from the city's tree administrator before work begins.
it is unlawful for any person to perform any of the following acts with respect to street trees, without a tree permit issued by the tree administrator:
A. Plant any tree within a tree maintenance strip or public right-of-way, other than those species that are designated in the West Sacramento Landscape Development Guidelines;
B. Move, remove, cut down, poison, set fire to or permit fire to burn in proximity to or perform or fail to perform any act which results in the unnatural death or destruction of a street tree;
C. Perform any activity that will interfere with or retard the natural growth of any street tree;
D. Perform any work or permit any work to be performed within the drip line area of a street tree which would endanger the tree;
E. Trim or prune any branch of a street tree which is five inches in diameter or greater. (Ord. 04-01 § 3)
Full Breakdown
Under WSMC § 8.24.040(E), enforced within the City of West Sacramento, Yolo County, it is unlawful to trim or prune any branch of a street tree that is five inches or greater in diameter without a tree permit issued by the tree administrator. The same permit requirement extends to landmark and heritage trees under § 8.24.060(D), and to any tree on a site during construction under § 8.24.070(F). Utility companies are exempt when trimming is necessary to make repairs, comply with safety regulations, or avoid a service interruption, per § 8.24.050.
Violations & Fines
Cutting a branch five inches or larger from a street, landmark or heritage tree without a tree permit is unlawful under WSMC §§ 8.24.040 and 8.24.060.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to trim my own street tree in West Sacramento?
Are utility companies exempt from West Sacramento's tree trimming permit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in West Sacramento
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