Tree Replacement Requirements: Downey vs El Monte
How do tree replacement requirements rules compare between Downey, CA and El Monte, CA?
Downey has fewer restrictions than El Monte.
Downey, CA
Los Angeles County
Downey requires replacement of removed street trees to maintain the urban forest canopy per the Urban Forest Management Plan. Species selection follows the Street Tree Master Plan.
View full Downey rules →El Monte, CA
Los Angeles County
Every Protected Tree removed under permit must be replaced at a 2:1 ratio with 36-inch box trees, or the property owner must pay an in-lieu fee into the Tree Mitigation and Planting Fund.
View full El Monte rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Downey | El Monte |
|---|---|---|
| Replacement | Required for removed street trees | - |
| Species | Per Street Tree Master Plan | From city's recommended tree palette, approved by Economic Development Dept. |
| Canopy Goals | UFMP targets | - |
| Responsibility | Public Works Director | - |
| Replacement ratio | - | 2:1 — two replacements per removed Protected Tree |
| Replacement size | - | 36-inch box, minimum 12 ft height |
| In-lieu option | - | Pay into Tree Mitigation and Planting Fund (§14.03.100) |
| Fund use | - | Public rights-of-way, parks, city-owned property only |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Downey FAQ
How many trees must I plant as replacement?
Typically 1 to 3 replacement trees per removed tree depending on size. Check Downey 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.
El Monte FAQ
How many trees do I have to plant if I remove one Protected Tree?
Two 36-inch box trees, each at least 12 feet tall, from the city's approved palette per EMMC §14.03.090.
What if my lot has no room for two replacement trees?
You may pay an in-lieu fee into El Monte's Tree Mitigation and Planting Fund under EMMC §14.03.100. The fee amount is set by City Council resolution per §14.03.130.
Can I pick any species for the replacement?
No. Replacements must come from the city's recommended tree palette and be approved by the Economic Development Department under EMMC §14.03.090.
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