Tree Replacement Requirements: Carson vs Santa Monica
How do tree replacement requirements rules compare between Carson, CA and Santa Monica, CA?
Carson and Santa Monica have similar restriction levels.
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 →Santa Monica, CA
Los Angeles County
Santa Monica requires tree protection during construction under SMMC Ch. 7.40. Trees must be protected with sufficient guards during building work. Removed trees may require replacement. The city manages over 35,000 public trees across 250+ species.
View full Santa Monica rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Carson | Santa Monica |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Construction | - | Guards/protectors required |
| Replacement | - | May be required for removals |
| Urban Forest | - | 35,000+ public trees |
| Code | - | SMMC Ch. 7.40 |
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.
Santa Monica FAQ
How many trees must I plant as replacement?
Typically 1 to 3 replacement trees per removed tree depending on size. Check Santa Monica 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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