Do I need a permit to prune a tree?
You do not need a permit from the City to prune trees provided they are done following accepted industry pruning standards. If pruning requires working in the public Right-of-Way, contact the Permit Center to determine if traffic or pedestrian controls/permit is required.

Specifically this city code addresses pruning:

18.12.140 Landscape standards and specifications.
J. Tree Pruning:
1. All pruning shall be done to the most recent National Arborist Association Standards: ANSI Z133.1 (2001) for safety factors and Z300 (part 1) for pruning. It is recommended that all pruning be done to Class I (Fine Pruning), Class II (Standard Pruning), or Class III (Hazard Pruning) standards. Class IV (Crown Reduction Pruning) shall only be done for the following reasons:
a. Branches interfering with utility lines. (See FAQ regarding trees in utility lines)
b. Significant crown die-back has occurred.
c. Storm damage or prior incorrect pruning requires correction.
2. In no case is topping (the severe reduction of branches without consideration of the specifications for cutting back) allowed.
3. No more than twenty-five (25) percent of the total canopy may be removed unless approved by the City’s Horticulturist.

Show All Answers

1. Do I need a permit to remove a tree?
2. Is there a tree removal fee?
3. Can any tree be removed from my property?
4. How do I know if a tree is located within a critical area, buffer or NGPE or if the tree is otherwise protected?
5. Are all trees regulated and exactly what defines a “tree?”
6. What about hazard trees?
7. Can hazard trees be removed from critical areas?
8. What about emergency situations?
9. Do hazard trees count toward my one and five year tree allowances?
10. How is tree removal on non-single family properties handled?
11. What if I need to remove trees to make way for a home expansion or other development project?
12. What if I want a tree removed from a City ROW or public property?
13. What if I want a tree removed from my neighbor’s property?
14. Are there other regulations pertaining to trees aside from tree removal restrictions?
15. What should I do if I think trees are being removed illegally?
16. What are the penalties for illegally removing trees?
17. What if a tree in or near a power line needs to be trimmed?
18. Do I need a permit to prune a tree?