LAMC §62.169 requires a Bureau of Street Services permit before planting, removing, or replacing any tree in the parkway strip between the curb and sidewalk. Species must come from the City's Designated Street Trees list matched to the block.
Parkways are city-owned right-of-way, so adjacent property owners cannot plant or remove trees there without permission. LAMC §62.169 requires a free Urban Forestry permit and inspection. Selected species must appear on the City's Designated Street Trees list, which is matched by neighborhood and overhead utility constraints. Planting depth, root-barrier installation, watering basin, and stake setup follow Urban Forestry specifications. Property owners typically water and prune the tree for the first three years, while the City handles structural pruning. Unauthorized planting, even with native species, will be removed.
Planting without a permit, choosing non-listed species, or improper installation can trigger Urban Forestry removal at owner expense, plus citations and fees under LAMC §62.169.
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See how Los Angeles's parkway planting rules stack up against other locations.
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