How to apply for a tree removal permit in Pasadena, California

A 5-step walkthrough drawn from Pasadena's tree-protection ordinance. For the underlying DBH thresholds, protected-species list, and full fee schedule, see the city ordinance page.

Expected processing time: 4-8 weeks. Plan removal timing accordingly — emergency-tree provisions may differ.

  1. 1

    Determine if your tree is regulated

    Trees at or above 6" DBH (diameter at breast height) are regulated. All oak trees and most other trees with DBH of 6+ inches on private property. Categories: mature, landmark, native, specimen trees. Heritage / landmark designation: Landmark trees designated for exceptional size, age, species rarity, or significance.

  2. 2

    Determine who must apply

    Eligible applicants in Pasadena: Property owner or authorized agent with ISA Certified Arborist report.

  3. 3

    Prepare your assessment report

    Your assessment report must include: 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. Required certifications: ISA Certified Arborist.

  4. 4

    Submit to the permitting department

    Submit your application and assessment report to Public Works Department. Typical processing time: 4-8 weeks. Reference the full ordinance at https://library.municode.com/ca/pasadena/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=TIT8HESA_CH8.52CITRTRPROR.

    View the full Pasadena ordinance

  5. 5

    Plan for replacement obligations

    Replacement ratio: 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.

Where to file

Public Works Department

(626) 744-4721

Other California permit walkthroughs

See California replacement obligations compared — how Pasadena's replacement ratio ranks against the rest of the state.

See California heritage criteria compared — how Pasadena's designation rules stack against the rest of the state.

Compare with nearby cities

Need an arborist report for your Pasadena permit?

Capture an ISA TRAQ Level 1, 2, or 3 assessment in the field and export a municipality-ready PDF that fits Pasadena's required report sections. Free, no account required.

Start a TRAQ assessment