Tree Removal & Heritage Trees: Long Beach vs Los Angeles
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between Long Beach, CA and Los Angeles, CA?
Long Beach has fewer restrictions than Los Angeles.
Long Beach, CA
Los Angeles County
Street trees cannot be removed without city permit from Director of Public Works. City only approves removal for dead, dying, diseased, or hazardous trees. Private tree removal on private property governed by Chapter 14.28.
View full Long Beach rules →Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
LAMC Article 6 (Sections 46.00-46.06) established by Ordinance 177404 requires a permit from the Board of Public Works for removal or relocation of any protected tree. Protected species include California native oaks, Southern California Black Walnut, Western Sycamore, and California Bay measuring 4+ inches cumulative diameter at 4.5 feet above ground.
View full Los Angeles rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Long Beach | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Code | LBMC §14.28 | - |
| Street Trees | Permit required for removal or trimming | - |
| Approval | Director of Public Works | - |
| Contractor | Must be city-approved, licensed, bonded | - |
| No Removal For | Leaf debris or personal preference | - |
| Permit Required | - | Board of Public Works |
| Protected Species | - | Native oaks, Black Walnut, Sycamore, Bay |
| Size Threshold | - | 4+ inches at 4.5 ft above ground |
| Penalty | - | Building permits withheld up to 10 years |
| Replacement Ratio | - | Up to 4:1 per Board policy |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Long Beach FAQ
Do I need a permit to cut down a tree in Long Beach?
Street trees cannot be removed without city permit from Director of Public Works. City only approves removal for dead, dying, diseased, or hazardous trees. Private tree removal on private property governed by Chapter 14.28.
What are the tree removal rules in Long Beach?
Code: LBMC §14.28. Street Trees: Permit required for removal or trimming. Approval: Director of Public Works. Contractor: Must be city-approved, licensed, bonded.
Los Angeles FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in LA?
Yes, if it is a protected species (native oaks, Black Walnut, Western Sycamore, or California Bay) measuring 4+ inches in cumulative diameter at 4.5 feet. Apply to the Board of Public Works. Street tree removal requires separate StreetsLA authorization.
What happens if I remove a protected tree without a permit?
Under LAMC 46.06, the Bureau of Street Services can request that building permits be withheld for up to 10 years. You must also replace the tree at a 4:1 ratio. Additional fines and misdemeanor charges may apply.
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