Los Angeles County, CA Tree Protection: Parkway Planting (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- LA County Code § 21.32.160
- Who plants
- Subdivider, along every lot's street frontage
- Standards set by
- Director of Public Works
- Waiver triggers
- No curbs, or access rights relinquished
- Applies in
- Unincorporated LA County only
Summary
Subdividers in unincorporated Los Angeles County must plant trees along the street frontage of every new lot, with species, number, and placement set by the Director of Public Works before final map recordation.
Except as otherwise provided in this section, a subdivider shall plant trees along the frontage of all lots shown on a final map or parcel map. The number, species, and location of such trees shall be as specified by the Director of Public Works. Tree planting is not required unless it is determined by the advisory agency to be in the public interest...
Full Breakdown
Los Angeles County Code § 21.32.160 requires a subdivider to plant trees along the frontage of every lot shown on a final or parcel map in the unincorporated area, with the Director of Public Works setting the number, species, and location. The advisory agency can waive planting where direct lot access to a street or highway has been relinquished or where the street lacks curbs. Section 21.32.195 layers on a separate on-site tree requirement of one tree per 25 feet of frontage. The rule binds new subdivisions only, not existing lots or the incorporated cities within the county.
Violations & Fines
Noncompliance blocks final map recordation and building permit issuance for the subdivision; the County can require the developer to install street trees as a condition before any parcel is finaled or sold.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this rule apply to the City of Los Angeles?
Who decides which tree species get planted?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Los Angeles County
California rules heatmap·Compare Los Angeles County to another location·View the California tree protection overview
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