Public tree maintenance requires a written permit from the Parks and Recreation Department under BMC Chapter 7-4. Root pruning of public trees by non-authorized persons is unlawful. Construction near public trees must protect the Tree Protection Zone.
Under BMC Title 7, Chapter 4, the Parks and Recreation Department has exclusive jurisdiction over public trees and vegetation. A public tree removal permit is required to remove any public tree. Removed construction-area trees must be replaced with equivalent species per the Master Street Tree Plan. At intersections, trees within 40 feet of intersecting curb lines must be trimmed so branches are at least 14 feet above the nearest curb. Shrubs near intersections must not exceed 8 inches above the top of the nearest curb. The Director formulates a Master Street Tree Plan specifying species, spacing, and locations.
Violating tree ordinances triggers notices from the Director. Failure to trim after notice may result in city-performed work billed to the property owner.
Burbank, CA
Outdoor burning in Burbank is subject to South Coast AQMD no-burn days and seasonal restrictions (November–February). Open burning of household trash is proh...
Burbank, CA
Properties in fire hazard zones must maintain 100 ft of defensible space per CA PRC 4291. Burbank Fire Department enforces brush clearance in hillside areas ...
Burbank, CA
All fireworks — including Safe & Sane — are banned in Burbank. Violations result in confiscation plus citation or arrest. State penalties: $500–$1,000 fine a...
Burbank, CA
Gas and propane fire pits are generally permitted in Burbank. Wood-burning fire pits subject to South Coast AQMD no-burn day restrictions. Areas near the Ver...
Burbank, CA
Burbank does NOT operate a proactive Rental Housing Inspection Program. The City launched a Housing Enforcement Unit (HEU) in March 2025 to investigate compl...
Burbank, CA
Outdoor lighting that creates a nuisance to neighboring properties may be addressed through Burbank's general nuisance provisions. No specific foot-candle th...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Los Angeles County.
See how other cities in Los Angeles County handle tree trimming.
See how Burbank's tree trimming rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.