Tree Removal & Heritage Trees: Altadena vs Los Angeles
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between Altadena, CA and Los Angeles, CA?
Altadena and Los Angeles have similar restriction levels.
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 →Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
LAMC Article 6 (Sections 46.00-46.06) established by Ordinance 177404 requires a permit from the Board of Public Works for removal or relocation of any protected tree. Protected species include California native oaks, Southern California Black Walnut, Western Sycamore, and California Bay measuring 4+ inches cumulative diameter at 4.5 feet above ground.
View full Los Angeles rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Permit Required | - | Board of Public Works |
| Protected Species | - | Native oaks, Black Walnut, Sycamore, Bay |
| Size Threshold | - | 4+ inches at 4.5 ft above ground |
| Penalty | - | Building permits withheld up to 10 years |
| Replacement Ratio | - | Up to 4:1 per Board policy |
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.
Los Angeles FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in LA?
Yes, if it is a protected species (native oaks, Black Walnut, Western Sycamore, or California Bay) measuring 4+ inches in cumulative diameter at 4.5 feet. Apply to the Board of Public Works. Street tree removal requires separate StreetsLA authorization.
What happens if I remove a protected tree without a permit?
Under LAMC 46.06, the Bureau of Street Services can request that building permits be withheld for up to 10 years. You must also replace the tree at a 4:1 ratio. Additional fines and misdemeanor charges may apply.
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