Tree Trimming: Altadena vs Santa Monica
How do tree trimming rules compare between Altadena, CA and Santa Monica, CA?
Altadena has fewer restrictions than Santa Monica.
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 →Santa Monica, CA
Los Angeles County
Trimming public trees in Santa Monica requires a Public Works permit under SMMC Ch. 7.40. No person may remove, cut, trim, prune, or injure any public tree without a permit. Trees must be protected during construction with guards or protectors.
View full Santa Monica rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | Santa Monica |
|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| Construction | - | Trees must be protected |
| Code | - | SMMC Ch. 7.40 |
| Public Trees | - | 35,000+ across 250+ species |
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.
Santa Monica FAQ
Can I trim tree branches that hang over my property in Santa Monica?
Trimming public trees in Santa Monica requires a Public Works permit under SMMC Ch. 7.40. No person may remove, cut, trim, prune, or injure any public tree without a permit. Trees must be protected during construction with guards or protectors.
Do I need a permit to trim trees in Santa Monica?
Permit: Required for all public tree work. Construction: Trees must be protected. Code: SMMC Ch. 7.40. Public Trees: 35,000+ across 250+ species.
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