San Diego, CA Tree Protection: Tree Ordinances (2026)

San Diego protects trees through several regulatory mechanisms. SDMC Section 142.0403 requires a tree removal permit for protected trees during development, including mature trees and trees identified in environmental review. Street trees are managed by the city's Transportation and Stormwater Department and require city authorization before removal or major pruning. The Urban Forest Management Plan sets a goal of increasing tree canopy coverage across the city. Within the Multi-Habitat Planning Area (MHPA), native trees such as Coast Live Oak, Torrey Pine, and Engelmann Oak are protected under the city's Multiple Species Conservation Program (MSCP). Development projects within or adjacent to the MHPA must conduct biological surveys and avoid or mitigate impacts to native vegetation. The city's landscape regulations also require tree planting as part of new development. Private property owners can generally remove non-protected trees on their own lot without a permit unless the property is within the MHPA or subject to a Planned Development Permit with specific tree preservation conditions.