Tree Removal Permits: Altadena vs Santa Monica
How do tree removal permits rules compare between Altadena, CA and Santa Monica, CA?
Altadena and Santa Monica have similar restriction levels.
Altadena, CA
Los Angeles County
Removing or significantly damaging a native oak with an 8-inch trunk diameter (25-inch circumference) at 4.5 ft above grade requires an Oak Tree Permit from LA County Planning under Section 22.174.040.
View full Altadena rules →Santa Monica, CA
Los Angeles County
Removing any public tree in Santa Monica requires a City permit under SMMC Ch. 7.40. No person may remove, cut, or injure any tree on public property. Trees typically protected from removal unless diseased or a public safety threat.
View full Santa Monica rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | Santa Monica |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | LA County Code 22.174.040 | - |
| Protected Size | ≥8 in DBH | - |
| Permit Authority | LA County Planning | - |
| Required | Arborist report | - |
| Penalty | Up to $1,000/tree + 2:1 replacement | - |
| Permit | - | Required for all public tree removal |
| Grounds | - | Diseased or safety threat |
| Code | - | SMMC Ch. 7.40 |
| Public Trees | - | 35,000+ protected |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Altadena FAQ
Can I cut down an oak on my Altadena property?
Only with an Oak Tree Permit from LA County Planning if the oak is ≥8 in diameter at breast height — Section 22.174.040.
Santa Monica FAQ
When do I need a permit to remove a tree?
When trunk diameter exceeds the threshold (typically 6 to 12 inches). Check Santa Monica tree ordinance for exact size.
Can I remove a dead tree without a permit?
Dead or hazardous trees may qualify for expedited permits. Contact Santa Monica urban forestry before removal.
Compare other topics
See how Altadena and Santa Monica compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool