Tree Removal & Heritage Trees: Altadena vs Long Beach
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between Altadena, CA and Long Beach, CA?
Long Beach has fewer restrictions than Altadena.
Altadena, CA
Los Angeles County
Oak trees (genus Quercus) with a trunk circumference of 25 inches or more (8-inch diameter at 4.5 ft above grade) are protected — removal, damage, or encroachment into the protected zone requires an Oak Tree Permit under LA County Code Chapter 22.174.
View full Altadena rules →Long Beach, CA
Los Angeles County
Street trees cannot be removed without city permit from Director of Public Works. City only approves removal for dead, dying, diseased, or hazardous trees. Private tree removal on private property governed by Chapter 14.28.
View full Long Beach rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | Long Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | LA County Code Ch. 22.174 | - |
| Protected Size | ≥8 in DBH / 25 in circumference | - |
| Protected Zone | 5 ft outside dripline | - |
| Replacement | 2:1 typical | - |
| Heritage Oak | ≥36 in diameter | - |
| Code | - | LBMC §14.28 |
| Street Trees | - | Permit required for removal or trimming |
| Approval | - | Director of Public Works |
| Contractor | - | Must be city-approved, licensed, bonded |
| No Removal For | - | Leaf debris or personal preference |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Altadena FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove an oak in Altadena?
Yes if the oak is 8 inches in diameter or larger at 4.5 feet above grade — LA County Code Ch. 22.174 (Oak Tree Permits) applies.
Long Beach FAQ
Do I need a permit to cut down a tree in Long Beach?
Street trees cannot be removed without city permit from Director of Public Works. City only approves removal for dead, dying, diseased, or hazardous trees. Private tree removal on private property governed by Chapter 14.28.
What are the tree removal rules in Long Beach?
Code: LBMC §14.28. Street Trees: Permit required for removal or trimming. Approval: Director of Public Works. Contractor: Must be city-approved, licensed, bonded.
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