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

Downey's Street Tree Preservation and Protection chapter establishes that city street and median trees are important natural resources of aesthetic, economic, and environmental value. No person other than the City or its authorized contractors may plant, cut, trim, prune, break, deface, destroy, burn, remove, spray, or injure any City tree — or interfere with city personnel engaged in tree maintenance — without first obtaining a permit from the Public Works Department. This prohibition applies to homeowners adjacent to street trees as well as contractors.

On private property, Downey protects mature trees defined as those with a diameter at breast height (DBH) of 19 inches or greater. Property owners proposing additions or new construction must not remove mature trees during the project. When a mature tree is retained, the owner must record a covenant documenting the tree's location, requiring all trimming to be overseen by a licensed arborist, prohibiting topping, and requiring city approval for any future removal. Trees removed in violation may result in the owner being billed for the City's cost of replacement.

Property owners are also responsible for ensuring that trees, shrubs, and plants on their private property do not create a hazard to public streets, sidewalks, or nearby areas. When a private tree creates such a hazard — through dead branches, root encroachment, or structural failure risk — the City may require the owner to trim or remove the tree at their own expense. If the owner fails to act, the City may do so and bill the costs to the property. Street trees are maintained by City contractors on a two-to-three year trimming cycle. For tree-related questions, contact Public Works at (562) 904-7194.