Simi Valley Tree Removal Permit & Ordinance Guide
Ventura County, California
Protected Tree Definition
Mature Tree: native oaks 5+ inches diameter, other species 9.5+ inches diameter, at 4.5 feet above root crown.
Protected Species
Heritage / Landmark Trees
Mature Trees designated under the Simi Valley Mature Tree Preservation Ordinance receive heritage-level protection: native oak species at 5-inch or greater diameter, all other species at 9.5-inch or greater diameter, measured at 4.5 feet above root crown. Tree Advisory Board reviews removal applications and may recommend additional landmark designation.
Required Report Sections
Species identification, DBH (native oak 5+ or other species 9.5+ measured at 4.5 feet above root crown), health and structural assessment, justification for removal, photo documentation, replacement plan from approved native and adapted species list, Tree Advisory Board review materials
Replacement Requirements
2:1 minimum for mature tree removal under the Mature Tree Preservation Ordinance; in-lieu fees accepted at Tree Advisory Board discretion
15-gallon to 24-inch box replacement trees from the approved native and adapted species list; in-lieu deposits to the Mature Tree Preservation Fund set as a permit condition by the Tree Advisory Board.
Fees & Fines
Required Certifications
ISA Certified Arborist; ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ) recommended for hazard-tree determinations submitted to the Tree Advisory Board
Municipal Code
View full ordinanceContact
Environmental Services - Planning Division
Nearby Cities in Ventura County
Other California cities
Compare with nearby cities
Data last verified: April 2026. This information is provided as a reference. Always verify requirements directly with Simi Valley before submitting permits or reports.
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