Tree Removal Permits: Carson vs Los Angeles
How do tree removal permits rules compare between Carson, CA and Los Angeles, CA?
Carson and Los Angeles have similar restriction levels.
Carson, CA
Los Angeles County
Carson Municipal Code Article 3, Chapter 9 (City Tree Preservation and Protection) places all parkway and city right-of-way trees under the exclusive authority of the City Manager / Public Works Division. Removing, planting, pruning, or trimming any parkway tree without prior city approval is prohibited and may be charged as a misdemeanor.
View full Carson rules →Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
LAMC Article 6 (Sections 46.00-46.06) requires a permit from the Board of Public Works for removal or relocation of any protected tree or shrub. Protected species include those with 4+ inch cumulative diameter at 4.5 feet. Applications must include a plot plan showing all protected trees. Street tree removal requires separate authorization from StreetsLA.
View full Los Angeles rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Carson | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Code citation | CMC Article 3, Chapter 9 (City Tree Preservation and Protection) | - |
| Permit authority | City Manager / Public Works Division | - |
| Permit required for | Planting, removing, pruning, or trimming any tree in City right-of-way | - |
| Max fine | $1,000 OR appraised tree value (whichever greater) | - |
| Jail exposure | Up to 6 months (misdemeanor) | - |
| Permit Required | - | Board of Public Works |
| Size Threshold | - | 4+ inches cumulative diameter at 4.5 ft |
| Code Section | - | LAMC 46.00-46.06 |
| Plot Plan | - | Required with application |
| Street Trees | - | StreetsLA authorization needed |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Carson FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in my own backyard in Carson?
Carson's Article 3 Chapter 9 regulates parkway and right-of-way trees, not trees entirely on private property. Trees in the parkway strip between the sidewalk and curb, in city easements, or in the public right-of-way require a city permit even if you maintain them. Always confirm property-line and easement location before any work — unauthorized parkway removal is a misdemeanor.
Who do I call to remove a city parkway tree?
The Public Works Division administers Chapter 9. Carson is divided into 21 trimming zones on a roughly 3-year cycle (seven zones per year); if a tree is hazardous, contact Public Works directly rather than hiring a private arborist to cut it, because unauthorized removal can trigger the $1,000-or-appraised-value penalty.
Los Angeles FAQ
When do I need a permit to remove a tree?
When trunk diameter exceeds the threshold (typically 6 to 12 inches). Check Los Angeles tree ordinance for exact size.
Can I remove a dead tree without a permit?
Dead or hazardous trees may qualify for expedited permits. Contact Los Angeles urban forestry before removal.
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