Parkway Planting: Long Beach vs Los Angeles
How do parkway planting rules compare between Long Beach, CA and Los Angeles, CA?
Long Beach and Los Angeles have similar restriction levels.
Long Beach, CA
Los Angeles County
Parkway strips between sidewalks and curbs in Long Beach are city right-of-way managed by Public Works. Residents must obtain a permit to plant or remove trees in the parkway, and species must come from the approved street tree palette to ensure long-term success and infrastructure compatibility.
View full Long Beach rules →Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
LAMC §62.169 requires a Bureau of Street Services permit before planting, removing, or replacing any tree in the parkway strip between the curb and sidewalk. Species must come from the City's Designated Street Trees list matched to the block.
View full Los Angeles rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Long Beach | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Owner | City right-of-way | - |
| Permit required | Plant remove replace | - |
| Species list | Approved street tree palette | Designated Street Trees |
| Goal | Drought tolerance equity | - |
| Authority | - | LAMC §62.169 |
| Permit | - | Free, Bureau of Street Services |
| Owner duty | - | Water three years |
| Pruning | - | City handles structural |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Long Beach FAQ
Can I plant any tree in my parkway?
No. Parkway trees must come from the city approved palette for compatibility with sidewalks, utilities, and the urban canopy plan.
Will the city water new parkway trees?
Watering responsibility varies. New street trees are typically watered by city crews or contracted watering for an establishment period, then by adjacent residents.
Los Angeles FAQ
Can I pick any tree I like?
No. The City matches species to your block based on width, overhead lines, and existing canopy. Property owners can choose from the approved list at the time of permitting.
Who is liable if the parkway tree damages my driveway?
The City owns the tree and is generally responsible for root damage to public infrastructure. Owners can request root pruning or replacement through the Urban Forestry tree-emergency line.
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