Tree Removal & Heritage Trees: Altadena vs West Covina
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between Altadena, CA and West Covina, CA?
West Covina 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 →West Covina, CA
Los Angeles County
West Covina Municipal Code Chapter 24 (Vegetation) and the Development Code regulate trees on public and private property. The City has a native tree preservation ordinance applicable to development projects. Removal of street trees requires a permit from Public Works.
View full West Covina rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | West Covina |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Street Trees | - | Permit required |
| Protected Species | - | Oaks, sycamores, walnuts |
| Public Works | - | (626) 939-8430 |
| Code | - | WCMC Ch. 24 |
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.
West Covina FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in West Covina?
Yes for street trees (contact Public Works). Private trees may require review if they are protected native species such as oaks, sycamores, or walnuts, or if removal is part of a development project.
What trees are protected in West Covina?
California native species including live oaks, western sycamores, and California black walnuts receive protections during development review. The LA County oak tree ordinance may also apply.
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