Lancaster vs Santa Monica
How do tree ordinances rules compare between Lancaster, CA and Santa Monica, CA?
Lancaster and Santa Monica have similar restriction levels.
Lancaster, CA
Los Angeles County
Los Angeles County protects significant trees in unincorporated areas through its Oak Tree Ordinance (Title 22, Chapter 22.174) and related regulations. The ordinance requires permits for removal or relocation of oak trees and other protected species. Heritage trees receive enhanced protection. Mitigation including replacement planting is required when removal is approved.
View full Lancaster rules →Santa Monica, CA
Los Angeles County
Los Angeles County protects significant trees in unincorporated areas through its Oak Tree Ordinance (Title 22, Chapter 22.174) and related regulations. The ordinance requires permits for removal or relocation of oak trees and other protected species. Heritage trees receive enhanced protection. Mitigation including replacement planting is required when removal is approved.
View full Santa Monica rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Lancaster | Santa Monica |
|---|---|---|
| Governing Code | LA County Code Title 22, Chapter 22.174 (Oak Tree Ordinance) | LA County Code Title 22, Chapter 22.174 (Oak Tree Ordinance) |
| Size Threshold | 8 inches diameter at breast height (4.5 feet) | 8 inches diameter at breast height (4.5 feet) |
| Permit Required | Yes, for removal, relocation, or encroachment | Yes, for removal, relocation, or encroachment |
| Arborist Report | Required for permit applications | Required for permit applications |
| Replacement Ratio | Typically 2:1 or higher | Typically 2:1 or higher |
| Penalties | Up to $1,000 per tree plus replacement requirements | Up to $1,000 per tree plus replacement requirements |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Lancaster FAQ
What trees are protected under LA County's tree ordinance?
Native oak trees with trunks 8 inches or more in diameter at breast height are protected under the Oak Tree Ordinance. Heritage oaks and trees in Significant Ecological Areas receive additional protection.
Do I need a permit to remove an oak tree on my property in unincorporated LA County?
Yes, you must obtain an oak tree permit from the Department of Regional Planning before removing, relocating, or encroaching upon a protected oak tree. An arborist report is required with your application.
What happens if I remove a protected oak without a permit?
Unauthorized removal can result in fines up to $1,000 per tree, required replacement planting at enhanced ratios, and potential criminal prosecution.
Santa Monica FAQ
What trees are protected under LA County's tree ordinance?
Native oak trees with trunks 8 inches or more in diameter at breast height are protected under the Oak Tree Ordinance. Heritage oaks and trees in Significant Ecological Areas receive additional protection.
Do I need a permit to remove an oak tree on my property in unincorporated LA County?
Yes, you must obtain an oak tree permit from the Department of Regional Planning before removing, relocating, or encroaching upon a protected oak tree. An arborist report is required with your application.
What happens if I remove a protected oak without a permit?
Unauthorized removal can result in fines up to $1,000 per tree, required replacement planting at enhanced ratios, and potential criminal prosecution.
Compare other topics
See how Lancaster and Santa Monica compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool