Tree Removal Permits: Long Beach vs Topanga
How do tree removal permits rules compare between Long Beach, CA and Topanga, CA?
Long Beach and Topanga have similar restriction levels.
Long Beach, CA
Los Angeles County
Tree removal in Long Beach requires a permit from the Director of Public Works under LBMC Ch. 14.28. Removal allowed only if tree is dead, dying, diseased, or causing major structural damage. Personal preference is not grounds for removal.
View full Long Beach rules →Topanga, CA
Los Angeles County
Removing any oak tree 8+ inches in diameter (25+ inches circumference) in unincorporated LA County requires an Oak Tree Permit under Chapter 22.174. The ordinance protects all species of the oak genus. Damage includes burning, toxic substances, trenching, paving, and changing natural grade. Violations: $5-$200 fine and/or up to 50 days jail.
View full Topanga rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Long Beach | Topanga |
|---|---|---|
| Permit | Required from Public Works | - |
| Grounds | Dead, dying, diseased, or damaging | - |
| Not Grounds | Leaf debris or personal preference | - |
| Code | LBMC Ch. 14.28 | - |
| Protected Size | - | 8+ inch diameter (25+ circumference) |
| Multi-Trunk | - | 38+ combined circumference of 2 trunks |
| Permit Required | - | For cutting, removing, or damaging |
| Penalties | - | $5-$200 fine, up to 50 days jail |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Long Beach FAQ
When do I need a permit to remove a tree?
When trunk diameter exceeds the threshold (typically 6 to 12 inches). Check Long Beach tree ordinance for exact size.
Can I remove a dead tree without a permit?
Dead or hazardous trees may qualify for expedited permits. Contact Long Beach urban forestry before removal.
Topanga FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in LA County?
Only for protected oak trees (native oaks 8+ inches in trunk diameter). Non-oak trees on private property generally do not require a permit. Contact the Department of Regional Planning at (213) 974-6411 to verify your tree's status.
Can I remove a dead or dangerous oak tree without a permit?
Emergency removal of an immediately hazardous tree is allowed but you must provide after-the-fact documentation (photos, arborist report) to the Department of Regional Planning within 5 days.
What if I want to build where an oak tree is?
The department will review whether the project can be redesigned to preserve the tree. If removal is the only option, expect replacement planting requirements (2:1 to 10:1 ratio), an arborist report, and a monitoring period.
Compare other topics
See how Long Beach and Topanga compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool