Tree Removal & Heritage Trees: Los Angeles vs South San Gabriel
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between Los Angeles, CA and South San Gabriel, CA?
Los Angeles and South San Gabriel have similar restriction levels.
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
LAMC Article 6 (Sections 46.00-46.06) established by Ordinance 177404 requires a permit from the Board of Public Works for removal or relocation of any protected tree. Protected species include California native oaks, Southern California Black Walnut, Western Sycamore, and California Bay measuring 4+ inches cumulative diameter at 4.5 feet above ground.
View full Los Angeles rules →South San Gabriel, CA
Los Angeles County
LA County Code Title 22, Chapter 22.174 protects oak trees in unincorporated areas. Removing, damaging, or encroaching on any oak tree 8 inches or more in diameter requires an Oak Tree Permit from the Department of Regional Planning.
View full South San Gabriel rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Los Angeles | South San Gabriel |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Required | Board of Public Works | - |
| Protected Species | Native oaks, Black Walnut, Sycamore, Bay | - |
| Size Threshold | 4+ inches at 4.5 ft above ground | - |
| Penalty | Building permits withheld up to 10 years | - |
| Replacement Ratio | Up to 4:1 per Board policy | 2:1 minimum |
| Code | - | Title 22, Ch. 22.174 |
| Protected Size | - | 8 inches diameter |
| Measurement | - | At 4.5 feet above grade |
| Permit From | - | Regional Planning |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Los Angeles FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in LA?
Yes, if it is a protected species (native oaks, Black Walnut, Western Sycamore, or California Bay) measuring 4+ inches in cumulative diameter at 4.5 feet. Apply to the Board of Public Works. Street tree removal requires separate StreetsLA authorization.
What happens if I remove a protected tree without a permit?
Under LAMC 46.06, the Bureau of Street Services can request that building permits be withheld for up to 10 years. You must also replace the tree at a 4:1 ratio. Additional fines and misdemeanor charges may apply.
South San Gabriel FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove an oak tree in unincorporated LA County?
Yes. Any oak tree 8 inches or more in diameter (25 inches circumference) measured at 4.5 feet above grade requires an Oak Tree Permit from the Department of Regional Planning before removal or pruning.
What happens if I remove a protected oak tree without a permit?
Unauthorized removal is a misdemeanor with fines up to $1,000 per tree and/or jail time. You may also be ordered to plant replacement trees at a 10:1 ratio.
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