Tree Protection in Ventura County, CA (2026)

3 county-level rules, plus city-specific rules for 10 cities in Ventura County, California.

Verified from official government sources

Note: These county rules apply to unincorporated areas of Ventura County. If you live within an incorporated city, that city's own rules apply — see the city list below.

Tree Removal Permits

Ventura County requires a discretionary Tree Permit under §8107-25.7 before removing any protected tree. Applications require an arborist report and are reviewed by the Planning Director. Removal is only approved when no feasible alternative exists and minor pruning cannot resolve the issue.

Ventura County Tree Removal Permit Requirements

Heavy Restrictions

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Heritage & Protected Trees

Ventura County Zoning Ordinance §8107-25 protects all oaks and sycamores 9.5 inches in circumference or larger (measured at 4.5 feet above ground), trees of any species with a historical designation, and any tree 90 inches or more in circumference. No protected tree may be altered, felled, or removed without a Tree Permit.

Ventura County Tree Protection Ordinance

Heavy Restrictions

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Tree Replacement Requirements

Ventura County requires replacement plantings when protected oak trees are removed in unincorporated areas. Replacement ratios range from 3:1 to 10:1 depending on tree size and significance, with monitoring requirements of 5-7 years.