Tree Removal & Heritage Trees: Lompoc vs Santa Maria

Do I need a permit to remove an oak tree on my Santa Barbara County property?

Probably yes for native deciduous oaks (valley oak, blue oak, black oak, scrub oak) in the inland unincorporated area, under Land Use and Development Code Chapter 35, Article IX (Deciduous Oak Tree Protection and Regeneration). A discretionary Oak Tree Removal Permit through the Planning Commission is generally required for any non-exempt removal of a protected oak above the ordinance's diameter threshold. Common exemptions include trees that are dead or uprooted from natural causes, trees within 50 feet of an existing residential structure (a defensible-space allowance), and trees actively in conflict with an established agricultural operation. For coast live oaks and other native species (sycamore, bay laurel), there is no single countywide tree ordinance, but removals as part of any discretionary project are reviewed under CEQA, the General Plan, and the relevant Specific or Community Plan. In the coastal zone, ESHA protections in the Coastal Land Use Plan add a Coastal Development Permit requirement.

How many replacement trees do I have to plant if I take down a protected oak?

Replacement ratios are set as a condition of the Oak Tree Removal Permit by the Planning Commission and typically run from 5:1 up to 10:1 depending on the size and species of the removed oak and the circumstances of the removal (more replacements for larger or healthier trees and for removals not strictly necessary). Replacement plantings must be of the same species or a compatible native species, with a 5-year maintenance/survival period, and tagged or otherwise tracked. Plantings that fail must be replaced. For unpermitted removals discovered after the fact, Code Compliance commonly imposes enhanced replacement ratios as part of the resolution.

Can I cut down an oak near my house for fire safety?

Yes, the County's deciduous-oak ordinance specifically exempts removal of trees that are within 50 feet of an existing residential structure - that exemption is built into the ordinance to reconcile fire-safety / defensible-space requirements under Public Resources Code Section 4291 (the 100-foot defensible space rule) with the protection of native oaks. Routine pruning and removal of dead, dying, or uprooted trees is also exempt. Beyond the 50-foot exemption, removal of an otherwise protected oak generally requires an Oak Tree Removal Permit, even if you cite fire risk. In the coastal zone, additional Coastal Land Use Plan ESHA protections may still apply; check with Planning and Development before cutting.

Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Santa Maria?

Significant trees and street trees may require permits. Dead or hazardous trees may qualify for expedited removal.

Can I remove a street tree in Santa Maria?

No. Street trees are city property and require city approval for removal.