Torrance Tree Removal Permit & Ordinance Guide
Los Angeles County, California
Protected Tree Definition
All street trees, parkway trees, and trees on public property are protected regardless of size. Designated Heritage Trees on private property also protected.
Heritage / Landmark Trees
Heritage Trees designated by City Council for exceptional size, age, species rarity, historical association, aesthetic significance, or community value.
Permit Requirements
Tree Removal/Pruning Permit required from Public Works for any street tree, parkway tree, or public tree. Heritage Tree removal requires additional Council review.
Who can apply: Property owner, adjacent property owner (for parkway trees), or authorized agent
Required Report Sections
Species identification, DBH, health and structural assessment, justification for removal, photo documentation, replacement plan
Replacement Requirements
1:1 minimum for street/parkway trees; 2:1 for Heritage Trees
15-gallon minimum replacement trees from approved Parkway Tree List. In-lieu fees to the Urban Forestry Fund when on-site replanting is infeasible.
Fees & Fines
Processing Time
4-6 weeks
Required Certifications
ISA Certified Arborist
Municipal Code
Torrance Municipal Code Chapter 9 Article 2 (Trees and Shrubs)
View full ordinanceContact
Public Works 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 Torrance before submitting permits or reports.
Ready to apply? How to apply for a permit in Torrance →
See California replacement obligations compared: How Torrance's replacement ratio ranks in California →
See California heritage criteria compared: How Torrance's heritage designation ranks in California →
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