Tree Trimming: Burbank vs Lakewood
How do tree trimming rules compare between Burbank, CA and Lakewood, CA?
Lakewood has fewer restrictions than Burbank.
Burbank, CA
Los Angeles County
Burbank requires a written city permit to trim, prune, or otherwise maintain any tree in the public right-of-way or parkway, and unauthorized pruning of a public tree is unlawful (BMC 7-4-104; 7-4-113).
View full Burbank rules →Lakewood, CA
Los Angeles County
Lakewood may have protected tree ordinances requiring permits before removal or significant trimming. Heritage and native oaks often protected.
View full Lakewood rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Burbank | Lakewood |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | BMC 7-4-104 (Maintenance of Street Trees) | - |
| Permit | Written tree maintenance permit required | - |
| Intersection Clearance | Branches >= 14 ft above curb within 40 ft of intersection | - |
| Penalty | Misdemeanor (BMC 1-1-105) + tree value reimbursement | - |
| Protected Trees | - | Permit required |
| Heritage Size | - | Typically 12 to 24" trunk |
| Replacement | - | 2:1 or 3:1 ratio |
| Street Trees | - | City property |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Burbank FAQ
Can I trim the city tree in front of my house?
Not without a permit. BMC 7-4-104(C) makes it unlawful to perform maintenance on any tree in a public area or right-of-way without a written tree maintenance permit from the Parks and Recreation Department.
Who waters the parkway street tree?
The City maintains street trees, but BMC 7-4-104(B) makes the abutting property owner or occupant responsible for watering and fertilizing the street tree and caring for other vegetation in the adjacent parkway.
Lakewood FAQ
Can I remove a tree on my property?
Check if it’s a protected species or above the size threshold. A permit may be required.
What about neighbor’s tree branches?
You can trim branches that overhang onto your property up to the property line.
Compare other topics
See how Burbank and Lakewood compare on other ordinance categories.
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