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1. How do I get a tree on my private property removed or trimmed?

You need to complete a Tree Removal/Trimming Permit request for private property and submit it to the Community Development Department. Your request will be approved or denied within a week of the receipt of the completed application. If you have questions or concerns regarding your permit, please call the Community Development Department at (626) 308-2806.

Tree Removal/Trimming Permit

2. Do I need a permit to prune mature trees?

Because mature trees are protected by the San Gabriel Municipal code, residents should apply for a free permit before pruning or trimming their tree to be certain it's okay to do so. Pruning is the most common tree maintenance procedure. Forest trees grow well in a natural environment. However, landscape trees need a different level of maintenance. Pruning should be done with an understanding of how the tree responds to each cut. Improper trimming can cause damage that will last for the life of the tree, or worse, shorten the life of the tree entirely.

Tree Removal/Trimming Application

3. What are the conditions for getting a permit?

The Community Development Director will grant a permit if one or more of the following findings is made:

• The tree constitutes a nuisance or hazard.


• The trimming is found to be necessary by a professional arborist, to maintain or enhance the health or appearance of the tree.


• The tree has not been reduced in height more than 1/4 over a two-year period.


• The trimming or removal of the tree is deemed necessary to prevent a substantial inconvenience/ financial hardship to the resident/property owner.

4. What does the City ordinance say?

The City Tree Ordinance states:

• No person shall cut, trim, prune, transplant, destroy or remove more than 1/3 of the live foliage of any mature Class 1 tree located anywhere on private property without first obtaining a permit from the City.


• No person shall cut, trim, prune, transplant, or destroy more than 1/3 of the live foliage or remove any tree of “historical/landmark” significance located in any of the single family residential zones of the City anywhere on private property without first obtaining a permit.


• Finally, no person shall reduce the height of any protected “mature tree” more than 1/4 over two years without first obtaining a permit from the City.

List of Class 1 Species

5. Are there exemptions?

Permits are not required for the removal, trimming or pruning of a tree damaged by storm, fire, or other natural disaster or otherwise determined to be dangerous by the Community Development Director, Police Officer, firefighter or code enforcement officer.

Also exempted from this ordinance are the following types of trees:

• Immature Class trees—do not exceed 19” circumference when located in the front yard or do not exceed 30” circumference when located in a side/rear yard.


• Trees that must be removed or trimmed by order of any public agency or public utility having jurisdiction.


• Any palm tree or fruit tree.

6. Who trims trees in the public parkway?

Trees in the parkway are maintained by the City. Please submit a request online or call Public Works at (626) 308-2825.