Only the Public Works Director or an authorized representative may plant, prune, or trim trees in Sonoma's public rights-of-way without a written permit; residents must apply first under SMC §12.08.030.
Under Sonoma Municipal Code §12.08.030, it is unlawful for any person other than the Public Works Director (or their duly authorized representative) to trim, prune, brace, or plant any tree in any public right-of-way or on public property — including the parkway strip between sidewalk and curb — unless a written permit has first been obtained from the Public Works Director. Replacement and street-tree species selection should follow the City of Sonoma Master Tree List adopted by the City Council on March 19, 2025, which lists approximately 32 climate-resilient species selected for drought tolerance, pest resistance, and habitat value. SMC §19.40.060 (Landscape standards) also governs landscape design within development projects.
Violating SMC §12.08.030 — for example, planting or removing a parkway tree without a permit — carries a $1,000 fine. Repeat or aggravated violations may be charged as municipal code misdemeanors under Sonoma's general enforcement authority.
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See how Sonoma's parkway planting rules stack up against other locations.
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