Thinking about trimming or removing an oak on your Woodland Hills property? In Los Angeles, many native oaks are protected, and even well‑intended work can lead to violations. You want to care for your trees, meet fire‑safety rules, and protect your home’s value without risking fines or delays. This guide breaks down what’s protected, what work needs a permit, and the smart care steps that keep you compliant. Let’s dive in.
Know which oaks are protected
Most native oaks in Woodland Hills fall under the City of Los Angeles “protected tree” rules. The City protects valley oak, California live oak, and other native oaks indigenous to California (not scrub oak). A tree is protected once it reaches the 4‑inch diameter threshold measured 4½ feet above the ground. See the City’s definition in the Los Angeles Municipal Code for details in the protected tree section.
What counts as removal under City rules
Under the code, removal is defined broadly. It includes cutting down a tree, relocating it, or doing things likely to kill it, such as damaging roots, changing grade, compacting soil, applying toxic substances, or running heavy equipment under the canopy. You must have an approved permit from the Board of Public Works (Urban Forestry Division) for removal or relocation. Review the City’s prohibited acts and permit requirement before starting any work.
Penalties to avoid
Illegal removal or damaging work can trigger fines and replacement requirements. The City can also withhold or revoke building permits for up to 10 years after notice and hearing. Learn more in the code’s withholding and revocation section.
Care basics that keep you compliant
Protect roots first
Healthy roots keep oaks stable and thriving. Avoid digging, trenching, paving, or driving within the dripline or a defined tree protection zone. Soil compaction and grade changes can lead to decline and may be treated as removal if the tree dies. For practical guidance on protecting oak health near development, see these oak health best practices.
Irrigation and mulch
Established native oaks need little summer watering. If you do water, do it deeply and infrequently, targeting the outer root zone, not the trunk. Use 2–4 inches of organic mulch beyond the trunk flare and keep mulch 12–24 inches away from the trunk. UC experts outline these habits in their Sudden Oak Death guidance.
Prune the right way
Prune for safety and structure, not for shaping. Many experts recommend pruning during the dry season to reduce disease risks. Avoid topping, use proper cuts just outside the branch collar, and do not remove more than about a quarter of live foliage in one season. Hire an ISA‑certified arborist for major work and follow UC’s pruning and sanitation recommendations.
Plan construction near oaks
If you are building, remodeling, or installing hardscape, plan early. Include tree protection zones and fencing on your plans, and avoid trenching or new paving in the root zone. Obtain Urban Forestry clearances before grading or pulling related permits through the City’s Urban Forestry clearances portal.
Permits: how the process works
- Identify and measure. Confirm species and measure diameter at 4½ feet to see if it meets the City’s protected criteria. The City’s definition is here: protected tree section.
- Hire an arborist. If removal or major pruning is possible, an ISA‑certified arborist should prepare a report with location, diameter, health, and recommended mitigation.
- Apply with StreetsLA. Submit the application to the Urban Forestry Division. See the City’s protected tree permit page.
- Pay fees and schedule inspection. Fees are set by ordinance. Check the current fee schedule in LAMC Sec. 46.04 and on the City’s permit page.
- Receive the decision. Approvals often include mitigation like replacement planting or bonds to protect trees during construction.
Fire clearance and emergencies
Woodland Hills includes Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones, so defensible space matters. LAFD requires brush clearance, and you must still follow the City’s protected‑tree rules when doing that work. If a tree presents an immediate hazard, document it with photos and contact LAFD and StreetsLA right away. Review LAFD’s brush clearance requirements before you trim or remove anything.
Quick homeowner checklist
- Verify species and measure diameter at 4½ feet. If it’s 4 inches or more and a native oak, it is likely protected.
- Do not remove or relocate a protected oak without a permit.
- Keep heavy equipment, trenching, and new paving out of the root zone.
- Water deeply and infrequently, and keep mulch away from the trunk.
- Prune in the dry season for safety and structure, and hire an ISA‑certified arborist for major work.
- For construction, secure Urban Forestry clearances before grading or pulling related permits.
- For fire clearance or hazards, contact LAFD first and coordinate with StreetsLA.
Why this matters when you sell
Protected oaks add beauty and shade, and proper care helps preserve curb appeal and value. Just as important, staying compliant avoids costly delays, fines, and permit complications that can derail a sale. If you are preparing a Woodland Hills home for market, plan your timeline to include tree assessments and any needed City clearances.
Ready to talk strategy for your property or connect with trusted local arborists? Reach out to Tim Gavin for neighborhood‑savvy guidance that helps you protect both your trees and your transaction.
FAQs
Are Woodland Hills oaks protected by Los Angeles law?
- Yes. Many native oaks are protected once they reach the 4‑inch diameter threshold measured 4½ feet above the ground.
What if I already trimmed near the roots?
- Root damage, grade changes, or soil compaction can be treated as removal if they cause the tree’s death, which may require permits and mitigation.
Can I prune a protected oak for fire clearance?
- You must meet LAFD brush clearance rules and still comply with protected‑tree regulations; coordinate with LAFD and StreetsLA before doing significant work.
How long do permits take and what do they cost?
- Timelines vary by scope, and fees are set by ordinance; check the City’s current schedule and allow extra time if multiple trees are involved.
Who do I call if a tree looks hazardous?
- If there is an immediate risk to life or property, document it and contact LAFD; then coordinate with StreetsLA and an ISA‑certified arborist for next steps.
