Torrance, CA Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)
Key Facts
- Public Trees
- Permit required to trim/remove
- Authority
- Public Works Director
- Parkway Trees
- Owner must maintain abutting
- Code Section
- TMC Chapter 5 (Div 7)
Summary
A permit from the Public Works Director is required to cut, trim, prune, or remove any tree on public streets, parks, or rights-of-way in Torrance.
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 ... (2) Remove that portion of a tree that extends within 10 feet of the outlet of a chimney or stovepipe. (3) Maintain a tree, shrub, or other plant adjacent to or overhanging a building free of dead or dying wood. (4) Maintain the roof of a structure free of leaves, needles, or other vegetative materials.
Full Breakdown
The City of Torrance's Streetscape Division is responsible for trimming, maintaining, and regularly inspecting over 37,000 city trees. The City's tree trimming policy is to only trim for the health and sustainability of the urban forest, with exceptions for public safety, power line clearance, traffic clearance, and structural clearance, not for views. Homeowners may have the city tree in front of their property trimmed by a City-approved private contractor through a permit process. There is no charge for the City permit; however, property owners pay the contractor directly. The list of approved contractors is issued with the trimming permit.
Violations & Fines
Unauthorized trimming of city trees is prohibited. Homeowners must obtain a free permit before hiring approved contractors for city tree work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I trim tree branches that hang over my property in Torrance?
Do I need a permit to trim trees in Torrance?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Torrance
California rules heatmap·Compare Torrance to another location·View the California landscaping rules overview
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