Heritage & Protected Trees: Long Beach vs Santa Monica
How do heritage & protected trees rules compare between Long Beach, CA and Santa Monica, CA?
Long Beach and Santa Monica have similar restriction levels.
Long Beach, CA
Los Angeles County
Long Beach protects heritage and street trees under LBMC Ch. 14.28. Removing protected trees without a permit is illegal with heavy fines or jail. In the Coastal Zone, tree removal requires a Coastal Zone permit and 2:1 replacement ratio.
View full Long Beach rules →Santa Monica, CA
Los Angeles County
Santa Monica protects trees through the Landmark Tree Program. Trees with exceptional characteristics may be designated by the Landmarks Commission as Landmark Trees, including private trees. SMMC Ch. 7.40 governs all public tree protection.
View full Santa Monica rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Long Beach | Santa Monica |
|---|---|---|
| Code | LBMC Ch. 14.28 | SMMC Ch. 7.40 |
| Penalty | Heavy fines or jail | - |
| Coastal Zone | 2:1 replacement ratio | - |
| Protected | Street trees and heritage trees | - |
| Program | - | Landmark Tree Program |
| Authority | - | Landmarks Commission |
| Private Trees | - | May be designated at discretion |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Long Beach FAQ
How is a heritage tree designated?
Based on trunk size (typically 24+ inches), species rarity, age, or historical significance. Residents may nominate trees.
Can I ever remove a heritage tree?
Only with special approval, typically from city council or tree commission. Granted mainly for safety hazards.
Santa Monica FAQ
How is a heritage tree designated?
Based on trunk size (typically 24+ inches), species rarity, age, or historical significance. Residents may nominate trees.
Can I ever remove a heritage tree?
Only with special approval, typically from city council or tree commission. Granted mainly for safety hazards.
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