Claremont Tree Removal Permit & Ordinance Guide
Los Angeles County, California
Protected Tree Definition
Known as the "City of Trees and PhDs." Protected Tree: all street trees and trees on public property regardless of size; native trees (oaks, sycamores) 8+ inches DBH on private property. Heritage Trees designated by City Council.
Protected Species
Heritage / Landmark Trees
Heritage Trees designated by City Council based on recommendations of the Community and Human Services Commission for exceptional size, age, species rarity, historical association, or community value.
Permit Requirements
Tree Removal Permit required for any street tree, public tree, protected native tree, or Heritage Tree. Heritage Tree removal requires Commission and Council review with public notice.
Who can apply: Property owner, adjacent property owner (for parkway trees), or authorized agent with arborist report
Required Report Sections
Species identification, DBH, health and structural assessment, justification for removal, photo documentation, replacement plan
Replacement Requirements
1:1 minimum for street trees; 2:1 or higher for Heritage Trees and protected natives
Replacement from approved Master Street Tree List; 15-gallon or 24-inch box minimum. In-lieu fees to the Urban Forestry Fund when on-site replanting is infeasible.
Fees & Fines
Processing Time
4-8 weeks
Required Certifications
ISA Certified Arborist
Municipal Code
Claremont Municipal Code Chapter 16.301 (Street Trees) and Title 9 (Tree Preservation)
View full ordinanceContact
Community Development Department
Nearby Cities in Los Angeles County
Other California cities
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Data last verified: April 2026. This information is provided as a reference. Always verify requirements directly with Claremont before submitting permits or reports.
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