Tree Removal & Heritage Trees: Costa Mesa vs Irvine
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between Costa Mesa, CA and Irvine, CA?
Irvine has fewer restrictions than Costa Mesa.
Costa Mesa, CA
Orange County
OCCO Zoning Code Section 7-9-69 establishes the Protected Tree Ordinance for unincorporated Orange County. Protected trees with a diameter at breast height (DBH) of 5 inches or more cannot be removed without a Protected Tree Removal or Damage Permit. Replacement ratios of at least 5:1 apply.
View full Costa Mesa rules →Irvine, CA
Orange County
Irvine regulates tree removal under IMC Title 5, Division 7, Chapter 4 (Urban Forest). Street trees and trees in public rights-of-way require city authorization for removal. Private property tree removal generally does not require a permit unless subject to development conditions.
View full Irvine rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Costa Mesa | Irvine |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | OCCO §7-9-69 | IMC Title 5, Div. 7, Ch. 4 |
| DBH Threshold | 5 inches minimum | - |
| Replacement Ratio | 5:1 (same species) | - |
| Multi-Trunk Threshold | 23.6 inches combined | - |
| Permit Required | OC Development Services | - |
| Public Trees | - | City authorization required |
| Private Trees | - | Generally no permit needed |
| Boundary Trees | - | 1 tree per 30 ft of boundary |
| Contact | - | Public Works (949) 724-6000 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Costa Mesa FAQ
Can I remove a tree on my property in unincorporated Orange County?
If the tree is a Protected Tree species with a DBH of 5 inches or more, you must obtain a Protected Tree Removal Permit from OC Development Services. Unauthorized removal carries significant penalties.
What is the tree replacement requirement in Orange County?
Replacement trees must be indigenous protected tree species of the same genus, planted at a minimum ratio of 5 replacement trees for every 1 removed under OCCO Section 7-9-69.
Irvine FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree on my property in Irvine?
Generally no for private property trees, unless subject to development conditions or specific plan requirements. Street trees require city authorization.
Can I trim a street tree in Irvine?
No. Street trees are maintained by the city. Contact Public Works at (949) 724-6000 for tree maintenance requests.
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