Ventura County, CA Landscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage Trees (2026)

In the unincorporated areas, you generally cannot remove a protected tree without first obtaining a tree permit from the Resource Management Agency Planning Division. Under the Tree Protection Ordinance (Non-Coastal Zoning Ordinance section 8107-25; Coastal Zoning Ordinance section 8178-7), protected trees in the non-coastal zone include all oaks and sycamores 9.5 inches or larger in circumference measured at least 4.5 feet above grade, any tree species 90 inches or larger in circumference, historically designated trees of any species, and native trees 9.5 inches or larger within Scenic Resources Protection overlay zones. Removal, as well as trenching, excavation, or other encroachment into the protected zone (five feet beyond the canopy and at least 15 feet from the trunk), triggers the permit requirement. Minor removals may qualify for a ministerial permit (Tree Doc M), while larger or discretionary removals require an arborist report (Tree Doc D-AR) and County review. The County adopted Tree Protection Guidelines that set approval standards, methods for determining a tree's value, and mitigation measures for removed trees. A Tree Mitigation Grant Program, funded by contributions tied to permitted removals, supports replanting and habitat projects. Emergency removal of a hazardous tree posing imminent danger may be handled differently, but owners should document the hazard and contact Planning.