How to apply for a tree removal permit in West Hollywood, California

A 5-step walkthrough drawn from West Hollywood'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. Protected Tree: any tree 6+ inches DBH on private property, and all oak species regardless of size. All street trees and trees on public property are protected regardless of size. Heritage / landmark designation: Significant Trees designated by Council or Urban Design and Preservation Commission for age, size, species rarity, historical association, or cultural significance.

  2. 2

    Determine who must apply

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

  3. 3

    Prepare your assessment report

    Your assessment report must include: Species identification, DBH, health and structural assessment, justification for removal, site plan, photo documentation, replacement/mitigation plan. Required certifications: ISA Certified Arborist.

  4. 4

    Submit to the permitting department

    Submit your application and assessment report to Planning and Development Services. Typical processing time: 4-8 weeks. Reference the full ordinance at https://ecode360.com/43927989.

    View the full West Hollywood ordinance

  5. 5

    Plan for replacement obligations

    Replacement ratio: 2:1 for protected trees; higher ratios for heritage/significant trees at Commission discretion. 24-inch box minimum replacement trees. In-lieu fees to the Urban Forestry Fund when on-site replanting is infeasible.

Where to file

Planning and Development Services

Other California permit walkthroughs

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

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

Compare with nearby cities

Need an arborist report for your West Hollywood permit?

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

Start a TRAQ assessment