Imperial County, CA Tree Protection: Parkway Planting (2026)
Key Facts
- Tree spacing
- max 30 feet apart
- Sidewalk clearance
- min 5 feet from sidewalk
- Parkway plant height cap
- 12 inches maximum
- Applies to
- new single-unit residential development
Summary
New single-unit residential development in Imperial County must plant street-side setback trees no more than 30 feet apart and keep parkway plantings under 12 inches tall.
The front and street side yard setback areas, excluding approved driveway entrances and public walkways, shall be landscaped. Within this area, trees shall be planted no further than thirty (30) feet apart and no closer than five feet from the back side of sidewalks. No plant material that will grow to a height of more than twelve (12) inches shall be planted within the street right-of-way or between the curb edge and sidewalk edge.
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
In front and street-side yard setback areas of new single-unit residential development, the county requires trees spaced no further than thirty feet apart and set back at least five feet from the sidewalk. Within the street right-of-way and the strip between curb and sidewalk, the parkway, no plant material may exceed twelve inches in height, protecting sight lines for drivers and pedestrians.
Violations & Fines
Development plans with parkway plantings taller than 12 inches, or setback trees spaced more than 30 feet apart, are not approved by the planning department.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I plant tall shrubs between the curb and sidewalk?
Does this rule cover my existing established yard?
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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