Tree Removal & Heritage Trees: Altadena vs Pomona
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between Altadena, CA and Pomona, CA?
Pomona 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 →Pomona, CA
Los Angeles County
Pomona has a Tree Preservation Program protecting significant trees including oak trees. Removal of protected trees requires an Oak Tree Permit or Minor Certificate of Appropriateness from the Planning Division.
View full Pomona rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | Pomona |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Program | - | Tree Preservation Program |
| Protected Trees | - | Oak trees, historic district trees |
| Permit | - | Oak Tree Permit required for removal |
| Street Trees | - | Public Works Dept. manages |
| Planning Div. | - | (909) 620-2191 |
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.
Pomona FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Pomona?
Protected oak trees require an Oak Tree Permit from the Planning Division. Trees in historic districts may require a Certificate of Appropriateness. Unprotected private trees generally do not require permits.
Who manages street trees in Pomona?
The Public Works Department manages trees in the public right-of-way. Do not remove or significantly trim street trees without city authorization.
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