Tree removal permit rules in Santa Monica, CA β sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances β list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
Santa Monica Municipal Code Chapter 7.40 (Tree Code) strictly protects public trees. No person may remove, cut, trim, or interfere with any tree on public property without a City permit. The Landmark Tree Program protects exceptional trees on both public and private property. Permits expire in 30 days.
Santa Monica Municipal Code Chapter 7.40 (Tree Code) establishes comprehensive protections for public trees. No person shall remove, cut, trim, prune, plant, injure, or interfere with any tree, shrub, or plant upon any street, sidewalk, parkway, alley, or other public property without first obtaining a City permit. Permits become void if work is not completed within 30 calendar days. Removal of public trees requires a request through the City's 311 system and may require approval from the Urban Forest Task Force. The Landmark Tree Program allows the Landmarks Commission to designate trees with exceptional characteristics β including those on private property β as Landmark Trees, providing additional legal protections. Santa Monica's Urban Forest Master Plan guides tree planting and maintenance citywide. The City does not have general jurisdiction over routine removal of trees on private property, but Landmark-designated private trees and trees in Coastal Zone development areas may require review. The Public Works Department maintains approximately 34,000 public trees.
Unauthorized removal of or damage to public trees may result in fines, restitution for replacement value, and criminal charges. Removing a designated Landmark Tree without approval may carry enhanced penalties. Tree protection guidelines apply during construction near public trees.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Los Angeles County.
See how other cities in Los Angeles County handle tree removal & heritage trees.
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