Los Angeles County Tree Trimming Rules (2026) — What You Need to Know

Los Angeles County's oak tree protection ordinance, Chapter 22.174, reflects the ecological significance of native oaks in Southern California. Valley oaks, coast live oaks, and other native species are protected once they reach a trunk circumference of 25 inches or more, measured at 4.5 feet above natural grade (known as "breast height" or DBH). That translates to a diameter of roughly 8 inches — a relatively young tree, meaning the protection kicks in early in the tree's life.

An Oak Tree Permit is required from the Department of Regional Planning before any of the following actions: removing a protected oak, relocating it, cutting major branches, grading within the drip line, or any construction activity that would damage the root system. The permit process includes an arborist's report, a site plan showing the tree's location relative to the proposed work, and a determination of alternatives that would avoid or minimize impact.

If a protected oak must be removed, the county requires replacement planting at a 4:1 ratio — four new oak trees for every one removed. Replacement trees must be at least 15-gallon nursery specimens of the same species or a species approved by the planning department. A maintenance bond or covenant may be required to ensure the replacement trees survive.

The penalty structure — $5 to $200 per offense and up to 50 days in jail — may appear light on paper, but the replacement planting, arborist reports, and permit fees add substantial cost. Additionally, removing a protected oak without a permit can result in conditions being placed on any future development of the parcel.