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🌳 Tree Protection/Heritage & Protected Trees

Lakewood vs Santa Monica

How do heritage & protected trees rules compare between Lakewood, CA and Santa Monica, CA?

Lakewood and Santa Monica have similar restriction levels.

Lakewood, CA

Los Angeles County

Heavy Restrictions

Lakewood designates heritage or landmark trees based on size, age, or species. Removal or damage to heritage trees carries significant penalties.

View full Lakewood rules β†’

Santa Monica, CA

Los Angeles County

Heavy Restrictions

Santa Monica protects trees through the Landmark Tree Program. Trees with exceptional characteristics may be designated by the Landmarks Commission as Landmark Trees, including private trees. SMMC Ch. 7.40 governs all public tree protection.

View full Santa Monica rules β†’

Key Facts Comparison

FactLakewoodSanta Monica
DesignationSize, species, or historical-
Typical Size24+ inch trunk diameter-
RemovalCouncil approval required-
TopicHeritage Trees-
Program-Landmark Tree Program
Authority-Landmarks Commission
Private Trees-May be designated at discretion
Code-SMMC Ch. 7.40

Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

Lakewood FAQ

How is a heritage tree designated?

Based on trunk size (typically 24+ inches), species rarity, age, or historical significance. Residents may nominate trees.

Can I ever remove a heritage tree?

Only with special approval, typically from city council or tree commission. Granted mainly for safety hazards.

Santa Monica FAQ

How is a heritage tree designated?

Based on trunk size (typically 24+ inches), species rarity, age, or historical significance. Residents may nominate trees.

Can I ever remove a heritage tree?

Only with special approval, typically from city council or tree commission. Granted mainly for safety hazards.

Compare other topics

See how Lakewood and Santa Monica compare on other ordinance categories.

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