Property owners can plant approved species in the parkway strip between sidewalk and curb, but must obtain a free permit from Urban Forestry, choose from the city's approved species list, and meet spacing and utility-clearance rules.
The parkway strip — the planted area between sidewalk and curb — is public right-of-way managed by Sacramento Public Works Urban Forestry. Adjacent property owners are responsible for watering and basic care, but Urban Forestry retains ownership and pruning authority. Planting requires a free permit and selection from the Sacramento Approved Tree List, which avoids invasive, brittle, and water-intensive species. Spacing rules require at least 30 feet between large trees, 10 feet from driveways, and 5 feet from utility laterals. Utility crews retain right-to-prune for line clearance under PUC rules.
Unpermitted parkway plantings of unapproved species can be removed at owner expense. Damaging existing parkway trees during construction triggers fines under Title 12 plus restitution at the appraised value of the lost tree.
See how Sacramento's parkway planting rules stack up against other locations.
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