Tree Protection in Simi Valley, CA

If you live in Simi Valley or are thinking about moving there, tree protection are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Simi Valley has 3 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of tree protection, and some of them might surprise you.

Protected Tree Species

Simi Valley protects all historic trees, all mature native oak trees, and mature trees tied to development or vacant parcels. Native oaks are limited to Quercus agrifolia, berberidifolia, and lobata, while a mature tree needs a 72-square-inch trunk cross-section to qualify.

Key details: Protected native oak species: Quercus agrifolia, berberidifolia, lobata. Mature native oak threshold: 20+ sq in trunk cross-section. General mature tree threshold: 72+ sq in trunk cross-section. Historic tree designation: By City Council resolution. Private yard exception: Only oaks and historic trees stay protected.

Removing, cutting down, relocating or destroying a tree that meets the Section 9-80.020 protected-tree definition without a Tree Removal Permit violates SVMC Section 9-38.030, and under Section 9-38.100 the violator must plant on the property, or donate to the City, replacement trees valued at twice the value of the tree removed, on top of any penalty imposed under Chapter 9-78 (Enforcement).

Heritage & Protected Trees

Simi Valley lets the City Council designate individual trees as "historic" by resolution for their tie to a historic event or person, or for outstanding size, condition, or beauty. Once designated, a historic tree keeps full protected-tree status even inside a private single-family yard, where most trees are exempt.

Key details: Designation authority: City Council, by resolution. Designation basis: Historic event/person tie or aesthetic/size merit. Private-yard exemption: Does not cover historic trees. Removal restitution: Double the appraised tree value. Max fine: $1,000 and/or 6 months jail.

Removing a designated historic tree without a permit triggers restitution under Section 9-38.100: the Director can require planting or donating replacement trees worth twice the removed tree's appraised value, in addition to the general Development Code penalties in Chapter 9-78, which apply as an infraction or misdemeanor under SVMC § 1-2.01, punishable by up to a $1,000 fine, six months in jail, or both, with each day of noncompliance a separate offense. Permit denials or Director determinations are appealable to the Planning Commission and then the City Council under Chapter 9-76.

This is one of the stricter rules in Simi Valley's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

Parkway Planting

Planting a tree or shrub in a Simi Valley parkway or public place requires a permit from the Director of Public Works, species matched to the official tree list, and compliance with spacing and utility-clearance standards before a single shovel goes in the ground.

Key details: Permit needed: From Director before any parkway planting. Spacing: 50 to 60 feet apart along frontage. Corner lots: Minimum 2 trees required. Streetlight clearance: 15 feet minimum. Hydrant/alley clearance: 10 feet minimum.

Planting, removing, or relocating a parkway tree without a Director-issued permit violates Sections 7-3.05 and 7-3.06. Damaging, poisoning, or mutilating a public tree under Section 7-3.22 makes the responsible party liable for full replacement cost of any tree destroyed by more than one-third, plus any other penalty allowed by law. A denied or revoked permit can be appealed to the City Council within 30 days under Section 7-3.21, with a hearing set within 15 days of filing.

The Bottom Line

Simi Valley's tree protection rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Simi Valley is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Simi Valley's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.