Glendale Tree Removal Permit & Ordinance Guide
Los Angeles County, California
Protected Tree Definition
Indigenous (protected) trees. No pruning cut larger than 2 inches without permit. Topping prohibited. Over 25% foliage pruning prohibited without permit.
Protected Species
Heritage / Landmark Trees
Indigenous Trees designated under Glendale Municipal Code Chapter 12.44 — California Live Oak, Valley Oak, California Black Walnut, Western Sycamore, California Bay, Toyon, and California Juniper receive automatic heritage-level protection regardless of size, with additional landmark designation available by City Council action for exceptional age, historical significance, or community value.
Permit Requirements
Permit required for any protected indigenous tree removal (GMC 12.44.070).
Who can apply: Property owner or authorized agent with arborist report
Required Report Sections
Species identification (with indigenous-species verification), DBH, health and structural assessment, justification for removal or for pruning cuts larger than 2 inches, photo documentation, replacement plan from approved indigenous species list (California Live Oak, Valley Oak, California Black Walnut, Western Sycamore, California Bay)
Replacement Requirements
1:1 minimum for indigenous tree removal under GMC 12.44; replacement species drawn from the approved Glendale native species list
24-inch box minimum replacement indigenous trees (California Live Oak, Valley Oak, California Black Walnut, Western Sycamore, California Bay) from the approved native species list; in-lieu fees to the Indigenous Tree Preservation Fund accepted when on-site replanting is infeasible.
Fees & Fines
Processing Time
3-6 weeks
Required Certifications
ISA Certified Arborist with indigenous-species expertise (California Live Oak, Valley Oak, California Black Walnut, Western Sycamore, California Bay) per GMC Chapter 12.44
Municipal Code
Glendale Municipal Code Chapter 12.44
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Public Works Department
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Data last verified: April 2026. This information is provided as a reference. Always verify requirements directly with Glendale before submitting permits or reports.
Ready to apply? How to apply for a permit in Glendale →
See California replacement obligations compared: How Glendale's replacement ratio ranks in California →
See California heritage criteria compared: How Glendale's heritage designation ranks in California →
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