Tree Removal & Heritage Trees: Burbank vs Los Angeles
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between Burbank, CA and Los Angeles, CA?
Burbank and Los Angeles have similar restriction levels.
Burbank, CA
Los Angeles County
Removing any public (street/parkway) tree in Burbank requires a public tree removal permit, payment of the tree's appraised value, and replacement; the Parks Director also maintains a restricted list of landmark and outstanding trees (BMC 7-4-111; 7-4-108).
View full Burbank rules →Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
LAMC Article 6 (Sections 46.00-46.06) established by Ordinance 177404 requires a permit from the Board of Public Works for removal or relocation of any protected tree. Protected species include California native oaks, Southern California Black Walnut, Western Sycamore, and California Bay measuring 4+ inches cumulative diameter at 4.5 feet above ground.
View full Los Angeles rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Burbank | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | BMC 7-4-111 (Removal for Construction) / 7-4-108 (Restricted Trees) | - |
| Permit | Public tree removal permit required for any public tree | - |
| Replacement | Required; pay appraised value via ISA Trunk Formula | - |
| Protected Trees | Landmark, dedicated, and outstanding trees on restricted list | - |
| Permit Required | - | Board of Public Works |
| Protected Species | - | Native oaks, Black Walnut, Sycamore, Bay |
| Size Threshold | - | 4+ inches at 4.5 ft above ground |
| Penalty | - | Building permits withheld up to 10 years |
| Replacement Ratio | - | Up to 4:1 per Board policy |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Burbank FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a street tree in Burbank?
Yes. BMC 7-4-111 requires a public tree removal permit for any public tree, and the permittee must replace it and pay the removed tree's appraised value determined by a certified arborist using the Trunk Formula.
Does Burbank protect heritage or landmark trees?
Yes. BMC 7-4-108 directs the Parks and Recreation Director to keep a restricted list of public landmark trees, dedicated trees, and trees of outstanding size and beauty that receive special protection.
Los Angeles FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in LA?
Yes, if it is a protected species (native oaks, Black Walnut, Western Sycamore, or California Bay) measuring 4+ inches in cumulative diameter at 4.5 feet. Apply to the Board of Public Works. Street tree removal requires separate StreetsLA authorization.
What happens if I remove a protected tree without a permit?
Under LAMC 46.06, the Bureau of Street Services can request that building permits be withheld for up to 10 years. You must also replace the tree at a 4:1 ratio. Additional fines and misdemeanor charges may apply.
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