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

Pasadena's tree protection program is among the most comprehensive in California, reflecting the city's identity as the "City of Roses and Trees." Municipal Code Chapter 8.52 (City Trees) protects every tree on public property, including street trees, park trees, and trees on City-owned land. No person may plant, remove, trim, prune, cut, damage, or apply any substance to a City tree without a written permit from the Director of Public Works. Topping of City trees is strictly prohibited. The City maintains approximately 60,000 public trees across more than 100 species.

Municipal Code Chapter 8.56 (Private Protected Trees) extends protections to significant trees on private property. Any tree with a single trunk measuring 19 inches or more in circumference at 54 inches above natural grade (approximately 6 inches in diameter), or any multi-trunk tree with a combined circumference of 25 inches or more, is classified as a "protected tree" requiring a permit for removal. Native California oaks (all species), California sycamores, and deodar cedars receive special attention in the review process. Removal permits require demonstration that the tree is dead, diseased, hazardous, or that no feasible alternative to removal exists. Approved removals typically require replacement plantings at a 2:1 ratio or greater, using species and sizes specified by the City. The Urban Forestry Advisory Committee reviews significant tree removal applications. Contact the Urban Forestry Division at (626) 744-3880.