Tree Trimming: Castaic vs Santa Monica
How do tree trimming rules compare between Castaic, CA and Santa Monica, CA?
Castaic has fewer restrictions than Santa Monica.
Castaic, CA
Los Angeles County
Tree trimming in unincorporated LA County is generally unrestricted for private property, except for protected oak trees. Any cutting or pruning of oak trees 8+ inches diameter requires an Oak Tree Permit under Chapter 22.174. Street trees are managed by county public works.
View full Castaic rules →Santa Monica, CA
Los Angeles County
Trimming public trees in Santa Monica requires a Public Works permit under SMMC Ch. 7.40. No person may remove, cut, trim, prune, or injure any public tree without a permit. Trees must be protected during construction with guards or protectors.
View full Santa Monica rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Castaic | Santa Monica |
|---|---|---|
| Private Trees | Generally no permit needed | - |
| Oak Trees | Permit required for 8+ inch diameter | - |
| Street Trees | County public works manages | - |
| Reference | Chapter 22.174 (Oaks) | - |
| Permit | - | Required for all public tree work |
| Construction | - | Trees must be protected |
| Code | - | SMMC Ch. 7.40 |
| Public Trees | - | 35,000+ across 250+ species |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Castaic FAQ
Do I need a permit to trim trees on my property in LA County?
No permit is needed for general trimming of most species. However, oak trees are protected under the Oak Tree Ordinance (Chapter 22.174) and trimming that could harm the tree's health may require a permit. Contact the Department of Regional Planning at (213) 974-6411.
Can I trim my neighbor's tree branches that hang over my property?
Yes. Under California law, you can trim branches that overhang your property line back to the property line. However, you cannot trim in a way that kills the tree or you may be liable for its replacement value.
Who trims trees near power lines?
Utility companies (Southern California Edison, LADWP) have the right and responsibility to trim trees near power lines. Contact your utility provider to request trimming. Do not attempt to trim near power lines yourself.
Santa Monica FAQ
Can I trim tree branches that hang over my property in Santa Monica?
Trimming public trees in Santa Monica requires a Public Works permit under SMMC Ch. 7.40. No person may remove, cut, trim, prune, or injure any public tree without a permit. Trees must be protected during construction with guards or protectors.
Do I need a permit to trim trees in Santa Monica?
Permit: Required for all public tree work. Construction: Trees must be protected. Code: SMMC Ch. 7.40. Public Trees: 35,000+ across 250+ species.
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