Tree Removal & Heritage Trees: Anaheim vs Costa Mesa
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between Anaheim, CA and Costa Mesa, CA?
Anaheim and Costa Mesa have similar restriction levels.
Anaheim, CA
Orange County
Anaheim protects specimen trees under AMC 18.18.040 and street trees under AMC 13.12. Specimen trees (oaks, sycamores, eucalyptus, pepper trees 8-inch+ trunk diameter) require a removal permit from the Planning Commission.
View full Anaheim rules →Costa Mesa, CA
Orange County
OCCO Zoning Code Section 7-9-69 establishes the Protected Tree Ordinance for unincorporated Orange County. Protected trees with a diameter at breast height (DBH) of 5 inches or more cannot be removed without a Protected Tree Removal or Damage Permit. Replacement ratios of at least 5:1 apply.
View full Costa Mesa rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Anaheim | Costa Mesa |
|---|---|---|
| Protected Species | Oak, Sycamore, Pepper, Eucalyptus | - |
| Threshold | 8-in trunk diameter | - |
| Permit | Planning Commission | - |
| Code | AMC 18.18.040/13.12 | - |
| Code Section | - | OCCO §7-9-69 |
| DBH Threshold | - | 5 inches minimum |
| Replacement Ratio | - | 5:1 (same species) |
| Multi-Trunk Threshold | - | 23.6 inches combined |
| Permit Required | - | OC Development Services |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Anaheim FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Anaheim?
Yes, for specimen trees (oak, sycamore, eucalyptus, pepper) with 8-inch+ trunk diameter. Street trees also require city authorization under AMC 13.12.
What are the replacement requirements?
The Planning Commission may require replacement trees as a condition of the removal permit. Applications must include replacement tree plans.
Costa Mesa FAQ
Can I remove a tree on my property in unincorporated Orange County?
If the tree is a Protected Tree species with a DBH of 5 inches or more, you must obtain a Protected Tree Removal Permit from OC Development Services. Unauthorized removal carries significant penalties.
What is the tree replacement requirement in Orange County?
Replacement trees must be indigenous protected tree species of the same genus, planted at a minimum ratio of 5 replacement trees for every 1 removed under OCCO Section 7-9-69.
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