Tree Trimming: Burbank vs Norwalk
How do tree trimming rules compare between Burbank, CA and Norwalk, CA?
Norwalk 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 →Norwalk, CA
Los Angeles County
Norwalk may have protected tree ordinances requiring permits before removal or significant trimming. Heritage and native oaks often protected.
View full Norwalk rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Burbank | Norwalk |
|---|---|---|
| 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.
Norwalk 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
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