Los Angeles vs Palmdale
How do protected tree species rules compare between Los Angeles, CA and Palmdale, CA?
Los Angeles and Palmdale have similar restriction levels.
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
LAMC §17.05 (Native Tree Protection Ordinance) protects native oaks, sycamores, walnuts, and California junipers measuring four inches DBH or larger. Removal requires a Bureau of Street Services permit and a four-to-one replacement ratio, even on private property.
View full Los Angeles rules →Palmdale, CA
Los Angeles County
LA County Code Title 22.174 (formerly 22.56.2050) protects native oaks with eight inches or larger trunk diameter at breast height. An Oak Tree Permit from Regional Planning is required before pruning more than 25 percent or removing any protected oak.
View full Palmdale rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Los Angeles | Palmdale |
|---|---|---|
| Authority | LAMC §17.05 | - |
| Species | Oak, sycamore, walnut, juniper | - |
| Threshold | Four-inch DBH or heritage | - |
| Replacement | Four-to-one ratio | - |
| Permit issuer | Bureau of Street Services | Department of Regional Planning |
| Code citation | - | LA County Code Title 22.174 |
| Trigger size | - | 8 inches DBH or larger |
| Pruning threshold | - | More than 25 percent canopy |
| Replacement ratio | - | 2:1 to 10:1 typical |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Los Angeles FAQ
Does this apply on my private lot?
Yes. LAMC §17.05 applies citywide regardless of property ownership. Any oak, sycamore, walnut, or juniper meeting the size threshold requires a permit before removal or major pruning.
What if the tree is dead or hazardous?
You still need a permit, but Urban Forestry expedites hazardous-tree review. Submit photos and an arborist report; emergency removals after a storm must be reported within seven days.
Palmdale FAQ
Does the oak ordinance apply to dead trees?
A confirmed dead oak generally does not require a permit, but a certified arborist report and Regional Planning concurrence are required first. Hazardous live oaks may qualify for an emergency permit with reduced fees and expedited review.
What if construction must encroach on a protected oak?
Submit an Oak Tree Permit application with arborist-prepared protection plan, root-zone fencing, and impact analysis. Regional Planning may require redesign, deep watering, or replacement plantings before approving encroachment.
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