Los Angeles, CA Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)
Key Facts
- Street Trees
- City-maintained, no unauthorized trimming
- Protected Species
- Oak, Walnut, Sycamore, Bay
- Private Trees
- No permit unless protected species
- Code Section
- LAMC 46.00
- Agency
- StreetsLA Urban Forestry Division
Summary
Street trees are maintained by StreetsLA Urban Forestry Division and residents may not trim or remove them without authorization. Private tree trimming does not require a permit unless the tree is a protected species under LAMC 46.00. Protected species include CA Live Oak, Southern CA Black Walnut, Western Sycamore, and CA Bay. Improper trimming of a protected tree can constitute removal under the ordinance.
4291. (a) A person who owns, leases, controls, operates, or maintains a building or structure in the state responsibility area shall at all times do all of the following: (1) (A) Maintain defensible space of 100 feet from each side and from the front and rear of the structure, but not beyond the property line, except as provided in subparagraph (B). The amount of fuel modification necessary shall consider the flammability of the structure as affected by building material, building standards, location, and type of vegetation. Fuels shall be maintained and spaced in a condition so that a wildfire would be unlikely to ignite the structure.
Full Breakdown
LAMC Section 46.00 prohibits relocating or removing any protected tree without a permit. Protected species include all oak trees (Quercus spp., excluding Scrub Oak), Southern California Black Walnut (Juglans californica), Western Sycamore (Platanus racemosa), California Bay (Umbellularia californica), Mexican Elderberry (Sambucus mexicana), and Toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia). Trees qualify for protection when measuring 4 inches or more in cumulative diameter at 4.5 feet above ground level. Under Section 46.02, permits require an application with a numbered plot plan identifying each tree. The term removal includes any act causing a protected tree to die, including root damage, toxic substances, equipment operation, or grade changes within the drip line area.
Violations & Fines
Illegal removal can result in the Bureau of Street Services withholding building permits per Section 46.06. Protected tree permits require replacement plantings. Willful violations may result in criminal prosecution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I trim tree branches that hang over my property in los Angeles?
Do I need a permit to trim trees in los Angeles?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Los Angeles
California rules heatmap·Compare Los Angeles to another location·View the California landscaping rules overview
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Tree Trimming in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Los Angeles County handle tree trimming.