Sonora Tree Trimming Rules (2026): What You Need to Know

The City of Sonora holds private property owners responsible for the maintenance of trees located on their property, including those whose branches extend over public sidewalks and streets. Trees must be maintained so that branches do not obstruct pedestrian passage on sidewalks or create hazards for vehicles in the street. The city or utility companies may trim or remove branches that interfere with overhead power lines, street lights, or traffic signals, and may bill the property owner for associated costs.

Sonora's defensible space requirements under Ordinance No. 835 add a critical fire safety dimension to tree maintenance. Within Zone A (0–30 feet from any structure), property owners must remove dead or dying branches, limbs, and debris from trees. In Zone B (30–100 feet), tree canopies should be separated to reduce the risk of fire spreading from crown to crown — a practice known as horizontal spacing or "ladder fuel" reduction.

For specimen or heritage trees, and for any tree removal that could affect drainage, slope stability, or neighborhood character, property owners should consult the Community Development Department at (209) 532-3508 before proceeding. While Sonora does not maintain a citywide heritage tree registry as a standalone ordinance, tree removal in environmentally sensitive areas may trigger review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) for larger projects.