El Monte Municipal Code Chapter 14.03 (Tree Protection and Preservation) protects heritage trees and all public/street trees. Removal requires a Tree Removal Permit from Public Works, and any approved removal triggers a 2:1 replacement obligation with 36-inch box trees at least 12 feet tall.
EMMC Chapter 14.03 designates 'protected trees' to include all public trees (street trees, park trees) and heritage trees on private property meeting size or species criteria. Removal of a protected tree requires city review and a Tree Removal Permit application processed by the Public Works Department. When removal is approved, the applicant must plant two 36-inch box trees with minimum 12-foot height (a 2:1 ratio) for each tree removed. If a protected tree is within 10 feet of proposed grading or construction, an arborist report is required to demonstrate that root and canopy impacts will be mitigated. Topping, severe pruning, and unauthorized injury are also violations.
Removing or damaging a protected tree without a permit is a violation of Chapter 14.03 punishable as an infraction or misdemeanor, with restitution typically calculated using the ISA tree appraisal value plus a 2:1 replacement requirement. Administrative citations under EMMC Chapter 1.20 also apply.
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