Tree Removal & Heritage Trees: Los Angeles vs West Covina
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between Los Angeles, CA and West Covina, CA?
West Covina has fewer restrictions than Los Angeles.
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 →West Covina, CA
Los Angeles County
West Covina Municipal Code Chapter 24 (Vegetation) and the Development Code regulate trees on public and private property. The City has a native tree preservation ordinance applicable to development projects. Removal of street trees requires a permit from Public Works.
View full West Covina rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Los Angeles | West Covina |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Required | Board of Public Works | - |
| Protected Species | Native oaks, Black Walnut, Sycamore, Bay | Oaks, sycamores, walnuts |
| 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 | - |
| Street Trees | - | Permit required |
| Public Works | - | (626) 939-8430 |
| Code | - | WCMC Ch. 24 |
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.
West Covina FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in West Covina?
Yes for street trees (contact Public Works). Private trees may require review if they are protected native species such as oaks, sycamores, or walnuts, or if removal is part of a development project.
What trees are protected in West Covina?
California native species including live oaks, western sycamores, and California black walnuts receive protections during development review. The LA County oak tree ordinance may also apply.
Compare other topics
See how Los Angeles and West Covina 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