Heritage & Protected Trees: Burbank vs Los Angeles
How do heritage & protected trees rules compare between Burbank, CA and Los Angeles, CA?
Burbank has fewer restrictions than Los Angeles.
Burbank, CA
Los Angeles County
Burbank does not have a standalone heritage tree ordinance for private property. Public trees are protected under BMC Chapter 7-4. The Master Street Tree Plan guides species and placement for public trees.
View full Burbank rules →Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
Los Angeles protects four native species – Oak (Quercus), Western Sycamore, Southern California Black Walnut, and California Bay – with a trunk circumference of four feet or more (roughly 15 inches DBH). Removal, relocation, or damage requires a Board of Public Works permit, an arborist report, and 4:1 replacement.
View full Los Angeles rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Burbank | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Heritage Ordinance | No standalone private tree ordinance | - |
| Public Trees | Protected under BMC 7-4 | - |
| Master Plan | Master Street Tree Plan | - |
| Free Trees | Parkway trees available for residents | - |
| DBH threshold | - | 4-foot trunk circumference (~15 inch DBH) |
| Protected species | - | Native oak, sycamore, black walnut, bay |
| Permit | - | Board of Public Works approval required |
| Replacement | - | 4:1 ratio with 24-inch box stock |
| Arborist report | - | Certified arborist report mandatory |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Burbank FAQ
How is a heritage tree designated?
Based on trunk size (typically 24+ inches), species rarity, age, or historical significance. Residents may nominate trees.
Can I ever remove a heritage tree?
Only with special approval, typically from city council or tree commission. Granted mainly for safety hazards.
Los Angeles FAQ
Can I cut a big oak on my own LA property?
No. If the oak is a native Quercus species with a trunk 4 feet around or larger, you need a Board of Public Works permit and arborist report before any removal or major pruning.
What counts as a heritage tree in LA?
LA uses "protected tree" rather than heritage. The four protected natives (oak, sycamore, walnut, bay) at 4-foot circumference qualify. Non-native species are not protected at the city level.
What if I damage roots during construction?
Encroachment into the 5-foot protected zone around the dripline – including grading, trenching, or hardscape – triggers permit review and may require monitoring by a certified arborist.
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