Tree Removal & Heritage Trees: Moorpark vs Simi Valley
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between Moorpark, CA and Simi Valley, CA?
Moorpark and Simi Valley have similar restriction levels.
Moorpark, CA
Ventura County
Moorpark strongly protects historic trees, native oak trees, and mature trees under MMC Chapter 12.12. No protected tree may be removed without a city-issued tree removal permit. Tree reports by an approved arborist are required. Replacement trees or their appraised value must be provided when removal is associated with development.
View full Moorpark rules →Simi Valley, CA
Ventura County
Simi Valley has a tree preservation ordinance that protects native oaks and significant trees from unauthorized removal. Permits are required to remove protected trees, and replacement planting or in-lieu fees are typically required.
View full Simi Valley rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Moorpark | Simi Valley |
|---|---|---|
| Protected Trees | Historic, native oak, mature trees | - |
| Permit Required | Yes, for all protected removals | Yes, from Community Development |
| Arborist Report | Required with appraisal | - |
| Replacement | Required for development-related removal | - |
| Code Section | MMC Chapter 12.12 | - |
| Protected Species | - | Native oaks 5+ inch diameter |
| Replacement Ratio | - | 2:1 or 3:1 planting required |
| Fine Range | - | $1,000 to $10,000 per tree |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Moorpark FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Moorpark?
Yes, for any historic tree, native oak tree, or mature tree on public or private property. A tree removal permit from the city is required under Chapter 12.12 before removal, cutting, or destruction.
What is considered a protected tree in Moorpark?
Historic trees, native oak trees, and other mature trees are protected under Chapter 12.12. A tree report by a city-approved arborist is required to assess the tree's status and value.
Do I have to replace a removed tree in Moorpark?
For development-related removals, the appraised value of removed trees must be applied to upgrading tree plantings. For non-development removals, replacement may be conditioned but cannot exceed the tree's appraised value.
Simi Valley FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Simi Valley?
A permit is required for native oaks with 5+ inch diameter and other designated significant or heritage trees. Contact Community Development at (805) 583-6800 for determination.
What trees are protected in Simi Valley?
Coast live oaks, valley oaks, scrub oaks, and other trees designated as significant or heritage by the city. Protection applies to trees with trunk diameters of 5 inches or more.
What if a protected tree is dying or dangerous?
Trees posing imminent hazards may be emergency-removed with documentation submitted to Community Development within 10 days. Dying trees still require a permit with an arborist assessment.
Compare other topics
See how Moorpark and Simi Valley 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