Oak Tree Removal in Los Angeles, CA

Protected trees are native oaks (other than scrub oak), Southern California black walnut, western sycamore and California bay laurel measuring 4 inches or more in cumulative diameter at 4.5 feet; Mexican elderberry and toyon shrubs are also protected. Removing or relocating a protected tree, or harmful work around one, requires a permit from the City of Los Angeles Urban Forestry Division.

Coast live oak: protected; don't irrigate heavily near the trunk Western sycamore: protected; common along washes and canyons Mexican fan palm: very tall; regular frond removal by trained climbers or lifts

Oaks, sycamores, black walnut and bay laurel are protected at small sizes; permits and replacement are required.

Dry offshore winds from fall into winter topple eucalyptus and pines and raise fire danger.

Non-native trees decline without deep irrigation; summer limb drop occurs in some species.

Hillside homes need rigging and sometimes cranes because nothing can be dropped on slopes. Flatland neighborhoods often have huge ficus and palms in narrow side yards and parkways.