Tree Trimming: Altadena vs Long Beach
How do tree trimming rules compare between Altadena, CA and Long Beach, CA?
Altadena has fewer restrictions than Long Beach.
Altadena, CA
Los Angeles County
Trimming protected oak trees (≥8 in DBH) requires an Oak Tree Permit if the work enters the protected zone or removes >25% of crown. Street trees in the public right-of-way are maintained by LA County Public Works.
View full Altadena rules →Long Beach, CA
Los Angeles County
Trimming or removing public/street trees in Long Beach requires a permit from the Director of Public Works under LBMC Ch. 14.28. Topping, heading back, stubbing, lion tailing, and pollarding are prohibited.
View full Long Beach rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | Long Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Oak Permit Required | Yes if entering protected zone | - |
| Code Section | LA County 22.174.040 | - |
| Parkway Trees | Maintained by LA County DPW | - |
| Utility Pruning | Allowed with notice (PUC 911) | - |
| Permit | - | Required for all public tree work |
| Prohibited | - | Topping, pollarding, lion tailing |
| Code | - | LBMC Ch. 14.28 |
| Coastal Zone | - | Additional Coastal Zone permit needed |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Altadena FAQ
Can I trim the oak in my Altadena backyard?
Light pruning of dead wood is generally fine, but anything entering the protected zone or removing >25% of crown needs an Oak Tree Permit under LA County Code 22.174.040.
Long Beach FAQ
Can I trim tree branches that hang over my property in Long Beach?
Trimming or removing public/street trees in Long Beach requires a permit from the Director of Public Works under LBMC Ch. 14.28. Topping, heading back, stubbing, lion tailing, and pollarding are prohibited.
Do I need a permit to trim trees in Long Beach?
Permit: Required for all public tree work. Prohibited: Topping, pollarding, lion tailing. Code: LBMC Ch. 14.28. Coastal Zone: Additional Coastal Zone permit needed.
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