Tree Protection in Costa Mesa, CA (2026)
3 verified tree protection rules for Costa Mesa, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Tree Removal Permits
Costa Mesa requires prior city approval before removing any tree that was required by a site plan, landscaping condition, or planning approval. Trees shall not be destroyed or removed without review by the Planning Division, which may require a California licensed arborist report. Replacement trees of comparable size are required where possible. Street trees in the public right-of-way are city property and may not be trimmed or removed by residents.
Costa Mesa Tree Removal Permit Requirements
Heavy RestrictionsHeritage & Protected Trees
Costa Mesa provides enhanced protections for heritage and significant trees through its planning and zoning standards. Trees designated as heritage specimens — typically defined by species, trunk diameter, or historical significance — require special review before removal or significant alteration. The city's Landscaping Standards require preservation of mature trees during development, and a California licensed arborist report may be required for any proposed work affecting heritage trees.
Costa Mesa Heritage Tree Protections
Heavy RestrictionsTree Replacement Requirements
Costa Mesa requires replacement trees when approved tree removals occur on properties subject to site plan conditions or heritage tree protections. Replacement trees must be of a size and species consistent with the tree being removed, as directed by the Planning Division. Heritage tree removals may require enhanced replacement ratios of two or more trees per tree removed. Replacement plans must be approved before removal work begins.
Costa Mesa Tree Replacement Requirements
Some RestrictionsLooking for Orange County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Costa Mesa city rules.
Tree Protection in Orange County →