Lakewood vs Santa Monica
How do protected tree species rules compare between Lakewood, CA and Santa Monica, CA?
Lakewood and Santa Monica have similar restriction levels.
Lakewood, CA
Los Angeles County
LA County Code Title 22.174 (formerly 22.56.2050) protects native oaks with eight inches or larger trunk diameter at breast height. An Oak Tree Permit from Regional Planning is required before pruning more than 25 percent or removing any protected oak.
View full Lakewood rules →Santa Monica, CA
Los Angeles County
LA County Code Title 22.174 (formerly 22.56.2050) protects native oaks with eight inches or larger trunk diameter at breast height. An Oak Tree Permit from Regional Planning is required before pruning more than 25 percent or removing any protected oak.
View full Santa Monica rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Lakewood | Santa Monica |
|---|---|---|
| Code citation | LA County Code Title 22.174 | LA County Code Title 22.174 |
| Trigger size | 8 inches DBH or larger | 8 inches DBH or larger |
| Permit issuer | Department of Regional Planning | Department of Regional Planning |
| Pruning threshold | More than 25 percent canopy | More than 25 percent canopy |
| Replacement ratio | 2:1 to 10:1 typical | 2:1 to 10:1 typical |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Lakewood FAQ
Does the oak ordinance apply to dead trees?
A confirmed dead oak generally does not require a permit, but a certified arborist report and Regional Planning concurrence are required first. Hazardous live oaks may qualify for an emergency permit with reduced fees and expedited review.
What if construction must encroach on a protected oak?
Submit an Oak Tree Permit application with arborist-prepared protection plan, root-zone fencing, and impact analysis. Regional Planning may require redesign, deep watering, or replacement plantings before approving encroachment.
Santa Monica FAQ
Does the oak ordinance apply to dead trees?
A confirmed dead oak generally does not require a permit, but a certified arborist report and Regional Planning concurrence are required first. Hazardous live oaks may qualify for an emergency permit with reduced fees and expedited review.
What if construction must encroach on a protected oak?
Submit an Oak Tree Permit application with arborist-prepared protection plan, root-zone fencing, and impact analysis. Regional Planning may require redesign, deep watering, or replacement plantings before approving encroachment.
Compare other topics
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