Tree Removal & Heritage Trees: Midway City vs Santa Ana
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between Midway City, CA and Santa Ana, CA?
Santa Ana has fewer restrictions than Midway City.
Midway City, CA
Orange County
OCCO Zoning Code Section 7-9-69 establishes the Protected Tree Ordinance for unincorporated Orange County. Protected trees with a diameter at breast height (DBH) of 5 inches or more cannot be removed without a Protected Tree Removal or Damage Permit. Replacement ratios of at least 5:1 apply.
View full Midway City rules →Santa Ana, CA
Orange County
Santa Ana regulates tree removal on public property and street trees under SAMC Chapter 33 (Streets and Sidewalks). Private property tree removal generally does not require a city permit unless the tree is in a designated area or subject to environmental review.
View full Santa Ana rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Midway City | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | OCCO §7-9-69 | SAMC Chapter 33 |
| DBH Threshold | 5 inches minimum | - |
| Replacement Ratio | 5:1 (same species) | - |
| Multi-Trunk Threshold | 23.6 inches combined | - |
| Permit Required | OC Development Services | - |
| Public Trees | - | City authorization required for removal |
| Private Trees | - | Generally no permit (exceptions apply) |
| Street Trees | - | Written authorization from Public Works |
| Contact | - | Public Works Agency |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Midway City FAQ
Can I remove a tree on my property in unincorporated Orange County?
If the tree is a Protected Tree species with a DBH of 5 inches or more, you must obtain a Protected Tree Removal Permit from OC Development Services. Unauthorized removal carries significant penalties.
What is the tree replacement requirement in Orange County?
Replacement trees must be indigenous protected tree species of the same genus, planted at a minimum ratio of 5 replacement trees for every 1 removed under OCCO Section 7-9-69.
Santa Ana FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree on my property in Santa Ana?
Generally no permit is required for private property tree removal unless the tree is subject to development conditions, environmental protections, or specific plan requirements. Always check with Planning first.
Can I trim a street tree in Santa Ana?
No. Trimming or removing trees in public rights-of-way requires written authorization from the Public Works Agency under SAMC Chapter 33.
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