Moorpark, CA Tree Protection: Parkway Planting (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- § 12.08.080, plantings on public property
- Height trigger
- Over 36 inches mature height
- Permit needed from
- Director of community services
- Noncompliance penalty
- Removal plus cost billed to owner
Summary
Moorpark requires written permission from the director of community services before anyone plants a tree, shrub or plant over 36 inches tall on city-owned public property, including street parkways.
No person shall plant any tree or any shrub or plant with a mature height in excess of thirty-six inches on any public property of the city without written permission from the director.
B. Any tree, shrub or plant planted in violation of subsection A of this section may be removed by the director. The director shall notify the abutting property owner in writing, listing the unlawfully planted trees, shrubs or plants, ordering their removal, and provide 30 days within which removal shall be accomplished. In the event removal is not accomplished within the specified time, the director is authorized to remove the trees, shrubs or plants and the cost thereof shall be assessed to the property owner. The charge assessed the property owner shall be equal to the cost of labor (including overhead), equipment and materials. (Ord. 102 § 1, 1988)
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: rev 4978490; v10 updated 2026-07-01).
Full Breakdown
Section 12.08.080 of the Moorpark Municipal Code bars planting any tree, shrub or plant with a mature height over three feet on public property, parkways, medians and other city land, without the director of community services' written permission. Plantings installed without approval can be removed by the director after 30 days' written notice to the abutting property owner, and the removal cost is billed back to that owner. The broader Chapter 12.08 policy directs the city to preserve existing public trees wherever feasible.
Violations & Fines
Planting without written permission lets the director remove the unauthorized tree or shrub after 30 days' notice and bill the abutting property owner for the removal cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to plant a tree in the parkway strip in front of my Moorpark home?
What happens if I plant without approval?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Moorpark
California rules heatmap·Compare Moorpark to another location·View the California tree protection overview
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Parkway Planting in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Ventura County handle parkway planting.