Imperial County, CA Tree Protection: Heritage & Protected Trees (2026)
Key Facts
- Permit issuer
- Horticultural commissioner
- Protected species
- 8 named native plants
- Applies on
- Public and private land
- Owner exception
- Owner or written consent
Summary
Imperial County bars picking or destroying blossoms, branches or berries of eight named native trees and plants, on public or private land, without a horticultural commissioner permit.
It is unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to mutilate or destroy or pick blossoms, branches, leaves or berries from any: Mountain Dogwood (Cornus Nuttalli), Snow Plant (Sarcodes Sanguinea), Tiger Lily (Lilium Parryi), Western Azalea (Rhododendron Occidentale), California Holly Toyon Berry (Heteromeles Arbutifolia)... growing upon public or private land in the county of Imperial, without a permit issued by the horticultural commissioner...
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 62 - 9-25).
Full Breakdown
Chapter 12.48 protects a fixed list of native species growing anywhere in the county, public or private: Mountain Dogwood, Snow Plant, Tiger Lily, Western Azalea, California Holly Toyon Berry, Maidenhair Fern, Sword Fern and Giant Canyon Fern. Mutilating, destroying, or picking blossoms, branches, leaves or berries from any of them requires a permit from the horticultural commissioner unless done by the landowner or with the owner's written consent.
Violations & Fines
Picking, mutilating or destroying a listed species without a permit or owner consent is a code violation punishable under the general penalty at § 1.16.010 (infraction fines up to $500, or misdemeanor penalties up to $1,000 and/or 6 months jail).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cut branches from a Western Azalea on my own Imperial County property?
Does this cover ordinary landscaping trees like citrus or palms?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Imperial County
California rules heatmap·Compare Imperial County to another location·View the California tree protection overview
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