Pasadena Tree Removal Permit & Ordinance Guide
Los Angeles County, California
Protected Tree Definition
All oak trees and most other trees with DBH of 6+ inches on private property. Categories: mature, landmark, native, specimen trees.
Protected Species
Heritage / Landmark Trees
Landmark trees designated for exceptional size, age, species rarity, or significance.
Permit Requirements
Permit denied unless findings of public benefit, poor condition, or substantial hardship.
Who can apply: Property owner or authorized agent with ISA Certified Arborist report
Required Report Sections
Species identification, DBH (6+ inch threshold for non-oak; all oaks regulated), health and structural assessment, justification for removal demonstrating public benefit, poor condition, or substantial hardship, photo documentation, replacement plan from approved Pasadena native and adapted species list
Replacement Requirements
2:1 minimum for protected trees; higher ratios (3:1+) for landmark and native specimen trees at Council discretion
24-inch box minimum replacement trees from the approved Pasadena native and adapted species list; in-lieu fees to the Pasadena Tree Preservation Fund accepted when on-site replanting is infeasible.
Fees & Fines
Processing Time
4-8 weeks
Required Certifications
ISA Certified Arborist
Municipal Code
Pasadena Municipal Code Chapter 8.52
View full ordinanceContact
Public Works Department
(626) 744-4721
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Data last verified: April 2026. This information is provided as a reference. Always verify requirements directly with Pasadena before submitting permits or reports.
Ready to apply? How to apply for a permit in Pasadena →
See California replacement obligations compared: How Pasadena's replacement ratio ranks in California →
See California heritage criteria compared: How Pasadena's heritage designation ranks in California →
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