Baldwin Park, CA Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)

Tree trimming is governed by Zoning Code Subchapter 153.165 (Tree Preservation and Protection). Under Section 153.165.080.A, all pruning and removal of trees on public property may be undertaken only by employees or contractors of the city; Section 153.165.080.B requires private firms doing public-tree work to be ISA-certified arborists carrying liability and workers' compensation insurance. Section 153.165.050.A directs private owners to accept, protect and water any Public Tree in the abutting parkway and not interfere with city pruning; owners simply notify the Tree Officer of suspected hazards (no application needed for notification). For private property, Section 153.165.100.B exempts normal and routine trimming of trees that does not damage or kill the tree and does not remove more than 50 percent of the live foliage and limbs or root base, plus removal of deadwood. Trimming beyond that threshold on a Mature Tree or Required Tree triggers the permit process in Section 153.165.090. Utility pruning for overhead electric-line clearance mandated by the CPUC is exempt (Section 153.165.100.E). Applications are reviewed by a certified arborist at the applicant's expense, and decisions may be appealed to the Tree Advisory Board (the Planning Commission).