Tree removal permit rules in Anaheim, CA — sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances — list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
Anaheim protects specimen trees under AMC 18.18.040 and street trees under AMC 13.12. Specimen trees (oaks, sycamores, eucalyptus, pepper trees 8-inch+ trunk diameter) require a removal permit from the Planning Commission.
AMC Section 18.18.040 establishes tree preservation requirements in the Scenic Corridor Overlay Zone. Specimen trees including Quercus (oak), Eucalyptus, Platanus (sycamore), and Schinus (pepper) with trunk diameters of 8 inches or more at 4 feet height require a Specimen Tree Removal Permit from the Planning Department. Applications must include diagrams, plot plans, photographs, location of trees to be removed, and replacement tree plans. The Planning Commission may require findings that removal serves forest management principles, is necessary for reasonable development, will not materially affect neighborhood character, or is required for safety. AMC Chapter 13.12 protects street trees and prohibits removal without city authorization. Tree trimming of required and specimen trees must comply with ISA (International Society of Arboriculture) standards.
Removing specimen tree without permit: fine, replacement planting requirement. Unauthorized street tree removal: city enforcement and replanting costs. ISA non-compliant pruning: correction required.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Orange County.
See how other cities in Orange County handle tree removal & heritage trees.
See how Anaheim's tree removal & heritage trees rules stack up against other locations.
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