Long Beach Tree Permits - Planting, Removal Rules

Land Use and Zoning California 4 Minutes Read · published February 08, 2026 Flag of California

In Long Beach, California, trees on public rights-of-way and many larger or historically significant private trees are subject to municipal rules and permits. Property owners, contractors, and developers should confirm whether planting, replacing, trimming, or removing a tree requires a permit before beginning work. This guide summarizes who enforces tree rules, typical permit types, enforcement and penalties, and step-by-step actions to apply, appeal, or report suspected unlawful removals. It is aimed at homeowners, landscapers, and project managers needing practical compliance steps and official contacts for Long Beach.

Who enforces tree rules

The City’s Urban Forestry Division within the Parks, Recreation & Marine Department administers street-tree planting, pruning, and removal in the public right-of-way; Development Services/Code Enforcement handles permits and violations for private-property trees and related development controls[1][2].

Always check with Urban Forestry before altering street trees.

Permits required and when to apply

Common situations that often require a permit include removal or major pruning of public trees, removal of protected or heritage trees on private property, and tree work tied to building permits or grading. The municipal code defines protected trees and the circumstances that trigger review; exact thresholds (diameter, species, historic designation) are set in the code and agency guidance[2].

  • Permit for street-tree removal or replacement (application through Urban Forestry).
  • Permit or approval for removal of protected/private trees where development or safety exceptions apply.
  • Apply before work begins; emergency removals must be reported promptly per city procedures.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement is handled by the Urban Forestry Division and Development Services/Code Enforcement; remedies can include fines, restoration orders, permit denial for future work, and civil or administrative actions. Where the municipal code lists specific fines or penalties, those amounts are stated in the ordinance text; where the code or guidance does not list numeric fines on the cited page, the text below notes that the amount is "not specified on the cited page" and points to the controlling source[2].

  • Monetary fines: amounts not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: first, repeat, and continuing offense ranges are not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: restoration or replacement orders, stop-work orders, permit suspensions, and civil enforcement actions.
  • Inspection and complaint pathway: file a complaint or request inspection with Code Enforcement or Urban Forestry as the city directs.
  • Appeals/review: administrative appeal routes exist; specific time limits for appeal are not specified on the cited page.
Unauthorized tree removal may trigger replacement or restoration orders.

Applications & Forms

Official permit forms and application checklists are published by the City’s Urban Forestry Division and Development Services. Where a named form number or fee schedule appears on the official page, cite it; where not, the page indicates the application process but does not specify a numbered form or fee on the cited page[1][2].

  • Tree removal/permit application: see Urban Forestry application portal or Development Services permit center for current forms.
  • Fees: fee schedules may apply; specific fee amounts are not specified on the cited page.
  • Submission: typically online or at Development Services counter; check Urban Forestry instructions for required documentation.
Always get written approval before removing any public right-of-way tree.

Action steps

  • Confirm whether the tree is on public property or classified as protected by checking the municipal code or asking Urban Forestry.
  • Download and complete the correct permit application and attach photos and a site plan if required.
  • Pay any required fees and schedule inspection if requested by the City.
  • If denied or fined, follow the City’s appeal procedure and note any appeal deadlines on the notice.

FAQ

Do I need a permit to remove a tree on my private property?
Many private-property trees are subject to protection when they meet size, species, or historic criteria; check the municipal code and contact Development Services/Code Enforcement for specifics.
Who do I call to report illegal tree removal on the street?
Report illegal removal or damage of street trees to the Urban Forestry Division; the City’s reporting page explains how to submit complaints and photos.
What if a tree is a hazard and requires emergency removal?
Emergency removals should be reported immediately; the City may require documentation and post-removal inspection—follow Urban Forestry emergency procedures.

How-To

  1. Identify tree ownership: confirm whether the tree is in the public right-of-way or on private property.
  2. Review Long Beach’s municipal code and Urban Forestry guidance to determine if the tree is protected.
  3. Complete the applicable permit application and attach required documentation.
  4. Submit the application and pay fees as instructed; schedule any inspections.
  5. If denied, file an administrative appeal within the time limit noted on the decision (check the notice for exact deadlines).

Key Takeaways

  • Always check before altering or removing trees in Long Beach.
  • Urban Forestry and Development Services are the primary contacts for permits and complaints.
  • Official applications and requirements are available from city departments; fees and fines may apply.

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