Tree Removal & Heritage Trees: Pomona vs Topanga
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between Pomona, CA and Topanga, CA?
Pomona has fewer restrictions than Topanga.
Pomona, CA
Los Angeles County
Pomona has a Tree Preservation Program protecting significant trees including oak trees. Removal of protected trees requires an Oak Tree Permit or Minor Certificate of Appropriateness from the Planning Division.
View full Pomona rules →Topanga, 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 Topanga rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Pomona | Topanga |
|---|---|---|
| Program | Tree Preservation Program | - |
| Protected Trees | Oak trees, historic district trees | - |
| Permit | Oak Tree Permit required for removal | - |
| Street Trees | Public Works Dept. manages | - |
| Planning Div. | (909) 620-2191 | - |
| Code | - | Title 22, Ch. 22.174 |
| Protected Size | - | 8 inches diameter |
| Measurement | - | At 4.5 feet above grade |
| Permit From | - | Regional Planning |
| Replacement Ratio | - | 2:1 minimum |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Pomona FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Pomona?
Protected oak trees require an Oak Tree Permit from the Planning Division. Trees in historic districts may require a Certificate of Appropriateness. Unprotected private trees generally do not require permits.
Who manages street trees in Pomona?
The Public Works Department manages trees in the public right-of-way. Do not remove or significantly trim street trees without city authorization.
Topanga 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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