Department of Public Works' policy is directed towards the preservation of all parkway trees and does not provide for removal unless the tree is dead or cannot be trimmed and/or root pruned to be made safe. Alternative methods and options to removal are explored prior to considering potential tree removal (see enclosed information sheet). However, under certain circumstances, a tree removal permit may be considered.
Circumstances where a permit may be considered are:
• Sidewalk displaced from the original grade (off-grade).
• Repeated sewer line clogging or breakage (verification required).
• Water main or natural gas line disturbance (verification required).
• Off-grade driveway or driveway apron.
• Installation of new driveway.
• Structure construction requiring tree removal.
If a removal permit is requested, please contact the Service Request Section at (800) 996-CITY (2489) or dial 3-1-1. For the hearing impaired, the number to call is (213) 473-6600. It is important to give complete information such as the correct address of the location of the tree(s), correct mailing address with zip code, and a daytime phone number (indicate if this is a work number). The request will be forwarded to the appropriate field office and a representative from the Bureau of Street Services will inspect the location. A card will be left if you are not contacted on site. If a representative does not make contact within two weeks of your request, please contact the Service Request Section and ask to speak to the field office area inspector for details.
In order to process the request, the Bureau may need the following documentation:
• Class "A" Permit for replacement of a sidewalk or driveway (obtained from one of four Bureau of Engineering district offices. See enclosed sheet listing addresses).
• Class "BC" Permit for new construction stating the conditions that require tree removal (Bureau of Engineering).
• Receipts from repeated repair of sewer or water lines.
• Permit for sewer line installation (Bureau of Engineering).
• Notice from proper agency that a tree requires removal due to interference with a utility vault or line that cannot be relocated.
• Other pertinent information that may be required.
• If you are not the legal owner or you are an agent acting for the legal owner, a completed Property Owner's Authorization for Tree Removal form is required (obtained from the Urban Forestry Division Representative).
• Plot plan depicting the location of the tree(s) or,
• Site plan depicting the location of the tree(s).
• Photographs of the tree(s) to be removed and the damage created by the tree(s).
• Formal request detailing reasons for removal(s).
If the tree removal permit is approved, the tree(s) shall be replaced on a 2:1 basis. The inspector will determine the replacement tree species and location.
Following the Urban Forestry Division's inspection and reception of all appropriate documentation, a report will be drafted and sent to the Board of Public Works for review. If the Board approves the request, the permit will be sent via mail. The replacement tree species and size will be included on the permit. The property owner is responsible for repairing any damage caused by the tree, the tree removal, and replacement.
The removal of three or more trees requires that trees be posted for 30 days prior to removal in order to allow for public comment. This must be taken into account when setting your project timetable.
Native trees protected by City of Los Angeles ' Ordinance require special consideration. Information for this can be obtained from the Urban Forestry Division office.
This information sheet is provided as a public service. Hopefully, it answers the important questions regarding the tree removal permit process. If you have any further questions, please refer to the Urban Forestry Division Inspector or contact the Division at (213) 847-3077. For the hearing-impaired, the TDD number is (213) 473-6600. All information sheets may be obtained at the Urban Forestry Division office at 1149 S. Broadway Street, 4th Floor, Los Angeles , CA 90015 .
As a covered entity under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City of Los Angeles does not discriminate on the basis of disability and, upon request, will provide reasonable accommodation to ensure equal access to its programs, services and activities.
