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

Under § 13.60.080(A), the Public Works Director has authority to grant a Tree Trimming Permit, Tree Removal Permit, or Tree Planting Permit, and to attach conditions necessary to fulfill Chapter 13.60's purpose; no permit issues without payment of a fee set by council resolution, though trees the city itself orders removed are exempt from the permit process (§ 13.60.080(C), (D)). Section 13.60.110 authorizes the Director to approve removal of a Street Tree for reasons including that the tree or its drip line interferes with an approved structure, paved area, or ground-disturbing activity; interferes with a planned street improvement or approved access; is hazardous to pedestrian or vehicular travel; damages utility services, roadways, sidewalks, curbs, gutters, sewer lines, drainage improvements, or building foundations; sits too close to a structure it may damage; is dead, diseased, or dying; has outgrown the parkway and is damaging sidewalks or curbs; suffers surface roots disrupting the parkway; leans unstably in heavy winds; or blocks a traffic control device that trimming cannot fix.

A decision denying, suspending, or revoking a removal permit may be appealed under Chapter 1.12 (§ 13.60.100), and any Street Tree the Director orders removed as a public nuisance is instead abated under Chapter 8.64 (§ 13.60.120).