Tree Protection in Long Beach, CA (2026)
5 verified tree protection rules for Long Beach, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Tree Removal Permits
Tree removal in Long Beach requires a permit from the Director of Public Works under LBMC Ch. 14.28. Removal allowed only if tree is dead, dying, diseased, or causing major structural damage. Personal preference is not grounds for removal.
Long Beach Tree Removal Permit Rules
Heavy RestrictionsHeritage & Protected Trees
Long Beach protects heritage and street trees under LBMC Ch. 14.28. Removing protected trees without a permit is illegal with heavy fines or jail. In the Coastal Zone, tree removal requires a Coastal Zone permit and 2:1 replacement ratio.
Long Beach Heritage & Protected Tree Rules
Heavy RestrictionsTree Replacement Requirements
Tree replacement in Long Beach's Coastal Zone requires a 2:1 ratio for removed nesting/breeding trees. The Public Works Director regulates species, spacing (min 25 ft apart), and planting methods. Trees must be 5+ ft from hydrants and meters.
Long Beach Tree Replacement Requirements
Heavy RestrictionsProtected Tree Species
Long Beach Municipal Code Title 14 chapter 14.04 protects designated heritage trees and certain species on public and private property. Removing, topping, or seriously damaging a protected tree without a permit can trigger significant fines and replacement requirements.
Heritage and Protected Tree Species
Heavy RestrictionsParkway Planting
Parkway strips between sidewalks and curbs in Long Beach are city right-of-way managed by Public Works. Residents must obtain a permit to plant or remove trees in the parkway, and species must come from the approved street tree palette to ensure long-term success and infrastructure compatibility.
Parkway Tree Planting Rules
Some RestrictionsLooking for Los Angeles County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Long Beach city rules.
Tree Protection in Los Angeles County →