1. Can I chose the tree to plant in front of my home?

 

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 and maintaining street trees?

 

The City plants new trees according to the Master Plan. The islands and their trees are City-owned, and the City is responsible for their care and maintenance. SMPNA supports and supplements that work in coordination with City staff.  The City generally maintains street trees for which it has a record of planting. Those records generally go back to 1963 and may be incomplete. If your tree’s history is unclear, ask the City to confirm ownership and maintenance responsibility before arranging work. Homeowners arrange care for street trees the City confirms are their responsibility. Residents may also arrange work at their own expense using a qualified, licensed contractor. Obtain a no-cost City street-tree permit and City approval before work begins.

 

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? Why is my watering bag empty?

 

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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The watering bags are designed to be empty most of the time. The bags release water slowly into the soil, usually over about eight hours. They are expected to be empty between scheduled refills, so an empty bag alone does not mean a tree has not been watered. Refill timing varies with the tree’s needs, as determined by the City arborist. Contact the City if a tree looks stressed or a bag appears damaged.​​

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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. What does SMPNA add to the City's island maintenance?

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The City provides routine median maintenance. Our islands are a defining part of the neighborhood, and residents’ generous contributions allow SMPNA to work with the City on additional care and improvements beyond that service.

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Proposed work on about 20 islands for 2026–2027 includes ivy removal, pruning overgrown trees and limbs, removing deadwood, replanting, adding wood chips and repairing irrigation. The scope depends on City coordination and available funding.

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12. Important: If in doubt, consult a licensed arborist. How can I get in touch?

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City Arborist: trees@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