Tree Replacement Requirements: Carson vs Los Angeles
How do tree replacement requirements rules compare between Carson, CA and Los Angeles, CA?
Carson has fewer restrictions than Los Angeles.
Carson, CA
Los Angeles County
Replacement of parkway trees in Carson is administered by the City Manager / Public Works Division under CMC Article 3 Chapter 9. When a parkway tree is removed — including for utility-line clearance — the City controls whether and how it is replaced, and the species must come from the Authorized List of Carson Trees in the Parkway Tree Master Plan.
View full Carson rules →Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
When protected tree removal is permitted, LAMC 46.03 requires replacement plantings. Each replacement tree must be at least a 15-gallon specimen, 1+ inch diameter at one foot above base, and 7+ feet tall. The number of replacement trees is determined by the Board of Public Works based on the size and species of the removed tree. Replacement trees must be maintained by the property owner.
View full Los Angeles rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Carson | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Replacement authority | Carson Public Works Division (CMC Art. 3 Ch. 9) | - |
| Species restriction | Authorized List of Carson Trees (Parkway Tree Master Plan, Exhibit A) | - |
| Utility-clearance removals | Replacement is at Public Works' discretion | - |
| MWELO trigger | Landscapes ≥500 sq ft new/rehabilitated (CCR Title 23 §490) | - |
| Unauthorized planting | May be removed by City without consent | - |
| Minimum Size | - | 15-gallon, 1-inch diameter, 7 ft tall |
| Number | - | Set by Board of Public Works |
| Code Section | - | LAMC 46.03 |
| Maintenance | - | Property owner responsibility |
| Standard | - | Based on removed tree size/species |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Carson FAQ
If a utility company removes a parkway tree near my house, do I get a replacement?
Carson's Chapter 9 says utility-line-clearance removals are replaced at the discretion of the Public Works Division — there is no automatic 1-for-1 statutory replacement guarantee. Contact Public Works to request a replacement and to confirm the species comes from the Authorized List.
Can I choose what tree goes in the parkway in front of my home?
Choice is limited. The City Manager has authority to designate the species planted in any parkway, and all plantings must conform to the Authorized List of Carson Trees in the Parkway Tree Master Plan (Exhibit A to Chapter 9). You must apply for a planting permit from Public Works first.
Los Angeles FAQ
How many trees must I plant as replacement?
Typically 1 to 3 replacement trees per removed tree depending on size. Check Los Angeles tree ordinance for ratios.
Can I pay a fee instead of planting?
Many cities offer a fee-in-lieu option that funds the city tree planting program.
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