City of Monrovia
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The City of Monrovia's oak tree preservation regulations can be found in Section 17.20.040 of the Monrovia Municipal Code. This code identifies which trees are subject to the ordinance and when a permit for removal or trimming is required. While regulations play an important role in preserving oaks for the future, many oak trees are lost due to improper maintenance. Learn more about how to care for your oak tree by reading these oak tree care and maintenance tips.
Need an Arborist?
A certified Arborist is a professional that has shown to have a high level of knowledge and understanding of the care of trees. Their services include assessing tree health, providing treatment of diseases and pest problems, and advise on property pruning.
Want to learn more? Check out the following resources:
- International Society of Arborists (ISA)
- American Society for Consulting Arborists (ASCA)
- Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA)
Which Trees Does the Ordinance Cover?
The City of Monrovia's oak tree preservation ordinance was adopted to provide regulations for the protection of oak trees within the City. Oak trees that are subject to the ordinance include:
- Any trees in the oak family that measure ten inches in diameter or more at two feet above the level ground that are located in:
- The front yard or street facing side yard of single-family properties
- The multiple-family, commercial or industrial zones (single-family developed properties in multi-family zones where no additional development is proposed are regulated as single-family developed properties)
- Any vacant lots
When Do I Need A Permit?
An oak tree preservation permit is needed when any of the oak trees that meet the above conditions are:
- To be completely removed by any means
- Substantial pruning that involves the removal of more than one-third of the crown and/or pruning of the root system. However, trimming that involves only the removal of dead wood is exempt
- If irrigation is to be installed or grading (cutting or filling) is to take place within the drip line of the tree
- Note: If the tree poses an eminent hazard, emergency removal may be allowed
How Do I Obtain A Permit?
An Oak Tree Preservation Permit application is filed with the Planning Division for review by the Development Review Committee (DRC). The following information (along with a fee) shall be submitted:
- A tree location map drawn to scale locating existing oak tree(s) that have trunk diameters of ten inches or more measured at 2 ft. above grade that are proposed for removal or substantial pruning
- Photographs of the tree
- Reason for the tree's removal
- Based on the request and situation, a report by a certified arborist may be required
Review Process and Determination
The determination of the DRC will be based on the following criteria:
- The condition of the tree and proximity to existing and proposed structures/utilities
- The necessity to remove the tree for compelling economic necessity to construct new structures, or to landscape with more suitable plant materials
- Good forestry practice to promote the healthy growth of the tree
- The topography of the land and the impact of tree removal on erosion, soil retention or water flow
- The number of oak trees or other trees existing in the neighborhood