Burbank Tree Trimming Rules (2026): What You Need to Know

Burbank's urban forest program protects public street trees and designated tree species on private property. All trees growing in the public right-of-way, parkways, and city-owned land are managed by the Parks and Recreation Division. No person may plant, trim, prune, remove, or damage any street tree without first obtaining a permit from the Parks and Recreation Division. Topping, lion-tailing, and other destructive pruning practices are prohibited for street trees.

On private property, certain native tree species are protected when they reach a specified trunk diameter. California live oaks (Quercus agrifolia), California sycamores (Platanus racemosa), and other designated native species with a trunk diameter of 8 inches or greater (measured at 4.5 feet above grade) require a tree removal permit before they can be removed. Heritage or landmark trees, defined as any tree with a trunk diameter of 36 inches or greater, have enhanced protections regardless of species. Removal of a protected tree requires submission of an arborist report and may require replacement plantings at a ratio of 2 replacement trees for every 1 tree removed. Property owners are responsible for maintaining parkway trees adjacent to their property and must hire licensed and insured tree care professionals. The city operates on a cyclical pruning schedule for street trees. Contact the Parks and Recreation Division at (818) 238-5300 for tree-related permits and inquiries.