Heritage & Protected Trees: Los Angeles vs Pasadena
How do heritage & protected trees rules compare between Los Angeles, CA and Pasadena, CA?
Los Angeles and Pasadena have similar restriction levels.
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
Los Angeles protects four native species – Oak (Quercus), Western Sycamore, Southern California Black Walnut, and California Bay – with a trunk circumference of four feet or more (roughly 15 inches DBH). Removal, relocation, or damage requires a Board of Public Works permit, an arborist report, and 4:1 replacement.
View full Los Angeles rules →Pasadena, CA
Los Angeles County
Pasadena's Tree Protection Ordinance (PMC 8.52) protects native, specimen, mature, landmark, and landmark-eligible trees on private property. Native trees include Coast live oak, Engelmann oak, Canyon oak, California sycamore, and California walnut with trunks 8+ inches diameter at 4.5 ft above grade.
View full Pasadena rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Los Angeles | Pasadena |
|---|---|---|
| DBH threshold | 4-foot trunk circumference (~15 inch DBH) | - |
| Protected species | Native oak, sycamore, black walnut, bay | - |
| Permit | Board of Public Works approval required | - |
| Replacement | 4:1 ratio with 24-inch box stock | - |
| Arborist report | Certified arborist report mandatory | - |
| Code Section | - | PMC Chapter 8.52 |
| Native Threshold | - | 8-inch trunk at 4.5 ft |
| Species | - | Oak, sycamore, walnut, others |
| Incentives | - | Development standard waivers possible |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Los Angeles FAQ
Can I cut a big oak on my own LA property?
No. If the oak is a native Quercus species with a trunk 4 feet around or larger, you need a Board of Public Works permit and arborist report before any removal or major pruning.
What counts as a heritage tree in LA?
LA uses "protected tree" rather than heritage. The four protected natives (oak, sycamore, walnut, bay) at 4-foot circumference qualify. Non-native species are not protected at the city level.
What if I damage roots during construction?
Encroachment into the 5-foot protected zone around the dripline – including grading, trenching, or hardscape – triggers permit review and may require monitoring by a certified arborist.
Pasadena 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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