Tree removal permit rules in Irvine, CA — sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances — list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
Irvine regulates tree removal under IMC Title 5, Division 7, Chapter 4 (Urban Forest). Street trees and trees in public rights-of-way require city authorization for removal. Private property tree removal generally does not require a permit unless subject to development conditions.
Under IMC Title 5, Division 7, Chapter 4, Irvine maintains an urban forestry program protecting trees in public areas. Street tree removal requires written authorization from Public Works. On private property, tree removal generally does not require a city permit unless the property is subject to specific plan conditions, environmental review conditions, or the Irvine Zoning Ordinance's landscape preservation requirements. New development projects must preserve significant trees or provide replacement planting as conditions of approval. The city's boundary landscaping requirements (Zoning Ordinance Ch. 3-15) require one 15-gallon tree per 30 feet of boundary.
Unauthorized removal of public or street trees results in fines and required replacement at the violator's expense. Violation of development conditions requiring tree preservation is enforceable through the planning department.
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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 Irvine's tree removal & heritage trees rules stack up against other locations.
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