Tree removal permit rules in Simi Valley, CA — sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances — list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
Simi Valley has a tree preservation ordinance that protects native oaks and significant trees from unauthorized removal. Permits are required to remove protected trees, and replacement planting or in-lieu fees are typically required.
The Simi Valley tree preservation ordinance protects native oak trees (coast live oak, valley oak, scrub oak) with a trunk diameter of 5 inches or more measured at 4.5 feet above grade. Other significant or heritage trees designated by the city are also protected. A tree removal permit from the Community Development Department is required before removing any protected tree. The application requires an arborist report documenting the tree's condition and justification for removal. Approved removals typically require replacement planting at a 2:1 or 3:1 ratio or payment of an in-lieu mitigation fee into the city's tree fund. Trees posing an imminent hazard may be emergency-removed with subsequent documentation within 10 days.
Unauthorized removal of a protected tree is a significant violation with fines ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 per tree depending on size and species. The violator may also be required to plant replacement trees at enhanced ratios and pay restoration costs. Criminal prosecution is possible for willful violations.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Ventura County.
See how other cities in Ventura County handle tree removal & heritage trees.
See how Simi Valley's tree removal & heritage trees rules stack up against other locations.
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