Tree Removal & Heritage Trees: Huntington Beach vs Midway City
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between Huntington Beach, CA and Midway City, CA?
Huntington Beach has fewer restrictions than Midway City.
Huntington Beach, CA
Orange County
Huntington Beach does not have a comprehensive private tree removal ordinance, but trees in the public right-of-way and in specific plan areas may be protected. Environmental review may apply to significant tree removal.
View full Huntington Beach rules →Midway City, 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 Midway City rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Huntington Beach | Midway City |
|---|---|---|
| Private Property | Generally no permit required | - |
| City Trees | Permission required for removal | - |
| Development | CEQA review may apply | - |
| Coastal Zone | Tree preservation conditions possible | - |
| Code Section | - | OCCO §7-9-69 |
| DBH Threshold | - | 5 inches minimum |
| Replacement Ratio | - | 5:1 (same species) |
| Multi-Trunk Threshold | - | 23.6 inches combined |
| Permit Required | - | OC Development Services |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Huntington Beach FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Huntington Beach?
Huntington Beach does not have a comprehensive private tree removal ordinance, but trees in the public right-of-way and trees required by development conditions are protected and require permits.
Can I remove a street tree in front of my Huntington Beach home?
No. Street trees in the public right-of-way are city property. Contact Huntington Beach Public Works for any concerns about street trees. Unauthorized removal results in fines.
Are there any protected trees in Huntington Beach?
Trees in the public right-of-way and those required as conditions of development approval are protected. Contact Community Development at (714) 536-5271 to check if your tree has any protections.
Midway City 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.
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