Tree Trimming: Long Beach vs Los Angeles
How do tree trimming rules compare between Long Beach, CA and Los Angeles, CA?
Los Angeles has fewer restrictions than Long Beach.
Long Beach, CA
Los Angeles County
Trimming or removing public/street trees in Long Beach requires a permit from the Director of Public Works under LBMC Ch. 14.28. Topping, heading back, stubbing, lion tailing, and pollarding are prohibited.
View full Long Beach rules →Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
Street trees are maintained by StreetsLA Urban Forestry Division and residents may not trim or remove them without authorization. Private tree trimming does not require a permit unless the tree is a protected species under LAMC 46.00. Protected species include CA Live Oak, Southern CA Black Walnut, Western Sycamore, and CA Bay. Improper trimming of a protected tree can constitute removal under the ordinance.
View full Los Angeles rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Long Beach | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Permit | Required for all public tree work | - |
| Prohibited | Topping, pollarding, lion tailing | - |
| Code | LBMC Ch. 14.28 | - |
| Coastal Zone | Additional Coastal Zone permit needed | - |
| Street Trees | - | City-maintained, no unauthorized trimming |
| Protected Species | - | Oak, Walnut, Sycamore, Bay |
| Private Trees | - | No permit unless protected species |
| Code Section | - | LAMC 46.00 |
| Agency | - | StreetsLA Urban Forestry Division |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Long Beach FAQ
Can I trim tree branches that hang over my property in Long Beach?
Trimming or removing public/street trees in Long Beach requires a permit from the Director of Public Works under LBMC Ch. 14.28. Topping, heading back, stubbing, lion tailing, and pollarding are prohibited.
Do I need a permit to trim trees in Long Beach?
Permit: Required for all public tree work. Prohibited: Topping, pollarding, lion tailing. Code: LBMC Ch. 14.28. Coastal Zone: Additional Coastal Zone permit needed.
Los Angeles FAQ
Can I trim tree branches that hang over my property in los Angeles?
Street trees are maintained by StreetsLA Urban Forestry Division and residents may not trim or remove them without authorization. Private tree trimming does not require a permit unless the tree is a protected species under LAMC 46.00. Protected species include CA Live Oak, Southern CA Black...
Do I need a permit to trim trees in los Angeles?
Street Trees: City-maintained, no unauthorized trimming. Protected Species: Oak, Walnut, Sycamore, Bay. Private Trees: No permit unless protected species. Code Section: LAMC 46.00.
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