1. Can I plant any tree in my sidewalk strip?

 

No, sorry! All street trees (planted in the public right of way, aka sidewalk) must follow The Park's Master Plan to maintain the neighborhood's historic character. You can request a free tree from the City or plant one with a permit, but it must match the plan. However, you can plant flowers or shrubs in the sidewalk area, as long as they don't block pedestrian access.

 

2. Who is responsible for planting street trees?

 

The City plants and maintains street trees for free, according to the planting plan. SMPNA helps identify locations for new trees and assists homeowners who would like one.

 

3. Do I need a permit to plant or remove a street tree?

 

Yes! A permit is required to plant or remove any tree in the sidewalk area. The City manages permits for street trees and island trees.

 

4. Who waters the street and island trees?

 

The City waters new trees for the first two years enough to keep them alive, but not enough for optimal growth. Homeowners are expected to supplement water for their own street trees.

 

SMPNA funds extra watering for island trees for up to five years, thanks to member contributions.

 

5. Do my street trees need water?

 

Yes! Regular watering helps trees thrive, especially during dry seasons.Water your trees if you find that leaves are limp, curling or brown or if the soil is dry and hard. 

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Tips for watering:

 

• Let a hose drip slowly for 45 minutes

• Use a hose with a probe around the tree's drip line

• Build a dirt berm and fill it with water 3 times, allowing each soak to drain

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6. What happens when a tree dies or is failing?

 

The City is responsible for removing dead or failing trees. If you notice a dead tree, contact SMPNA or the City Arborist (see info below). Removal may take time, and stumps are usually left until a new tree is planted.

 

7. Who takes care of pruning the street and island trees?

 

The City only prunes trees if they pose a hazard. Homeowners may hire private pruning services with a permit. SMPNA pays for structural pruning of young island trees and plans periodic pruning as funds allow.

 

8. Why is my oak tree losing green leaves?

 

If you see green leaves falling, it may be due to cynipid gall wasps common for oaks. These wasps usually don't harm the tree long-term and may even help by eating pests like aphids. Spraying is not recommended. If significant leaf loss occurs, consider using fertilizer to support regrowth.

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9. What is a "heritage" tree?

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"Heritage" trees are those of such size and significance in the landscape that the City of San Mateo has enacted protections for them.  The Park has the highest concentration of heritage trees in the City: they distinguish our special landscape.  Heritage trees may not be pruned or removed without a permit from the City.   

Full (yet readable) information about the protections the City affords heritage (and street) trees can be found here:  https://law.cityofsanmateo.org/us/ca/cities/san-mateo/code/13.40
 

10. Do the City's rules for heritage trees apply to trees on my property?

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Yes! Here are the rules to determine if you have a heritage tree on your property:  

• Any oak tree with a trunk circumference of 31.4 inches or more, when measured at 54 inches above natural grade;

• Any other tree with a trunk circumference of 47.1 inches or more, measured at 54 inches above natural grade.
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11. Important: If in doubt, consult a licensed arborist. How can I get in touch?

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City Arborist: theartquist@cityofsanmateo.org | 650-522-7420

Pruning permits: https://www.cityofsanmateo.org/3371/Heritage-Tree-and-Street-Tree-Permits

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SMPNA Board: board@sanmateopark.org