Simi Valley Tree Removal & Planting Rules

Land Use and Zoning California 4 Minutes Read · published February 21, 2026 Flag of California

In Simi Valley, California, property owners and contractors must follow local rules for removing, trimming, and planting trees on private and public property. This guide explains when a permit is required, how to apply, who enforces the rules, typical penalties, and practical steps to stay compliant in Simi Valley, California. It summarizes the city code and administrative practice and points to official sources for forms and complaints. Where a specific fee, fine, or time limit is not published on the cited official page, this guide notes that fact and points you to the enforcing department for confirmation.[1]

Overview

Simi Valley regulates trees to protect public health, safety, and infrastructure and to preserve community character. Rules can differ for street trees, protected specimen trees, trees in required landscape areas, and trees within environmentally sensitive areas. Permits, conditions, or mitigation (planting replacement trees) may be required before removal. Check the municipal code and the Planning or Public Works departments for the exact classification that applies to your site.[1]

When Permits Are Required

  • Removal of trees on private property that meet the city’s protected-tree definition may require a tree removal permit.
  • Removal or pruning of street trees in the public right-of-way typically requires city approval through Public Works or a tree division.
  • Work in protected or habitat areas may require additional permits or environmental review.
Always confirm the tree’s protected status with Planning or Public Works before work starts.

Process to Apply

  • Determine whether the tree is protected and which department handles the permit (Planning or Public Works).
  • Complete the required tree removal permit application and include photos, site plan, and mitigation proposal where requested.
  • Pay application and review fees if applicable; fees are listed on the city’s permit fee schedule or application packet.
  • Wait for review, possible site inspection, and a formal decision or conditions tied to approval.

Penalties & Enforcement

The city enforces tree rules through its Planning Division, Public Works, and Code Enforcement units. Specific monetary fines, daily penalties, or civil penalties are not detailed on the cited municipal code landing page; where amounts or escalation schedules are not published, they are stated here as not specified on the cited page and must be confirmed with the enforcing department.[1] Complaints may be submitted to Code Enforcement or the relevant department; contact details are available on the city website.[2]

  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: first, repeat, and continuing offenses escalation ranges are not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: stop-work orders, restoration or replacement tree orders, injunctive court actions, and administrative abatement may be used.
  • Enforcers: Planning Division, Public Works, and Code Enforcement; inspection and complaint pathways follow department intake procedures.[2]
  • Appeals/review: an administrative appeal or planning hearing may be available; specific time limits for appeal are not specified on the cited page.
  • Defenses/discretion: emergency removals for immediate hazards, permits, variances, or arborist reports may justify removal if accepted by the city.
If you find a dangerous tree, document conditions and notify Code Enforcement or Public Works immediately.

Applications & Forms

The city publishes a tree removal permit application and related checklists on its permit/forms pages when available; fees and submittal instructions are listed with the form. If no form is published, the city accepts written requests to the Planning Division or Public Works for review. Specific form names, numbers, and fees are not specified on the cited municipal-code landing page; check the department’s forms page for the current packet.[1]

Save photos and a site plan before pruning or removal to support any permit application.

How-To

  1. Identify the tree location and species and check whether it meets the city’s protected-tree rules.
  2. Obtain or download the tree removal permit application from the city and complete required attachments.
  3. Submit the application, pay fees, and schedule any required inspection or hearing.
  4. If the permit is denied, file an administrative appeal within the appeal period stated in the decision (confirm the exact deadline with the department).

FAQ

Do I always need a permit to remove a tree on my property?
Not always; it depends on whether the tree is designated protected under the municipal code or located in the right-of-way or a sensitive area. Check with Planning or Public Works.[1]
Who enforces tree violations and how do I report illegal removal?
Code Enforcement, Public Works, and Planning enforce tree rules. Report suspected illegal removal through the city’s Code Enforcement contact page.[2]
What happens if I remove a protected tree without a permit?
The city may impose restoration orders, replacement planting, fines, and other administrative or court actions; specific fines are not listed on the cited municipal-code landing page.[1]

Key Takeaways

  • Always check whether a tree is protected before work begins.
  • Apply for permits early and include photos, site plans, and mitigation proposals.
  • Contact Planning, Public Works, or Code Enforcement for inspections, complaints, and appeals.

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