Do removal of backyard trees require permits?

[BobaChewie]

My friend has a giant tree in his backyard that is overgrowing and soon to hit the electric powerlines that are extending along the roof. Does my friend require a permit of any kind in order to remove the tree? He lives in El Monte, California.

 

[Eric]

I don't think so. People have landscaping/tree work done all the time and I've never heard of permitting being required. That being said, if there's serious encroachment of power lines involved, your friend may want to give the electric utility (SCE?) a heads up.

 

[BobaChewie]

I don't think so. People have landscaping/tree work done all the time and I've never heard of permitting being required. That being said, if there's serious encroachment of power lines involved, your friend may want to give the electric utility (SCE?) a heads up.

Hi Eric,

Thanks for the response!

 

[Cass]

Not so fast. Although many states don't require such a permit, California is different. I'm a fellow native, and you likely do need a Tree Removal permit in El Monte. I'll warn you that your buddy is in for a rough time if the species of tree is on the protected or heritage list. It'll help his case that the tree could interfere with utilities.

 

[W3 Planning and Research]

Check with your local zoning authority. While places like Arizona don't require permits, places like Washington State in many areas DO require permits and evaluations on why the trees are being removed. When I was in Washington I had to have an Arborist as one of my planners specifically for tree preservation and evaluations.

So good to check with your lcoal jurisdiction, and as always, don't forget to check with your HOA. Sometimes it is included in those rules as well.

 

[High Voltage]

In Arizona, utility companies trim trees growing into power lines. I imagine California has something similar since it is the most regulated state in the nation.