Home

About the City

City Council

City Departments

Employment

Press Releases

Phone #s

What's New

Links

ADA Accommodations

Why Protect Trees?

Trees are a uniquely valuable natural resource. They provide protection from sun and wind, help replenish the oxygen supply and enhance the scenery around our homes and neighborhoods. Trees, especially mature healthy ones, foster an image of beauty, tranquility and stability throughout our community. These many benefits should be preserved for future generations.

What is a Mature Tree?

A Mature Tree is any living native oak tree that has a diameter of 5 inches or more, or a tree of any other species that has a diameter of 9 1/2 inches or more inches as measured 4 1/2 feet above the root crown.  For a tree with multiple trunks, contact the City to determine if it is mature.

Are all Mature Trees Protected?

All Mature Native Oak Trees are protected. Mature Trees of other species are protected, except those located in the yards of single family homes.  Mature Trees that are located within public right-of-ways may only be removed by authority of the City of Simi Valley, Public Works Department.

Can I remove a Mature Tree on Multi-Family Residential, Commercial, Industrial, or Vacant Property?

In order to remove a mature tree on multi-family residential, commercial, industrial, or vacant property, a tree removal permit must be obtained from the City.

Can I remove a Mature Tree in my Yard?

In order to remove a Mature Native Oak Tree that that is in your yard, you must obtain a Tree Removal Permit. You do not need a permit to remove other Mature Trees within the yards of single family homes.

How can I get a Tree Removal Permit?

To get a Tree Removal Permit, you must contact the Department of Environmental Services, at (805) 583-6769, and request an application for tree removal.  The Tree Removal Permit is also available as an Adobe Acrobat document. You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to view this document.  If you do not already have Adobe Acrobat software, it is available as a free download from Adobe.  Click here to download Adobe Acrobat Reader.

In order for this permit to be approved, you must return the completed application along with the required application fee (refer to the Summary of Service Charges).  In addition to the permit, you must provide evidence that the tree:

• Is diseased or poses a threat of collapse;
• Interferes with utilities or an addition to an existing single family residence;
• Prevents the reasonable development of the property;
• Is not the only protected tree in a neighborhood;
• Is on a property that is overcrowded with mature trees;
• Interferes with the construction of public improvements;
• Is unsuitable for use in an urban area; or,
• Is damaging surrounding pavement or structures.

A tree study may be required to verify the value, location and condition of the trees and to determine if the tree should be relocated rather than cut down. Guidelines for preparing a tree study are available at the Department of Environmental Services

Do I have to replace any Tree removed under a Tree Removal Permit?

Yes. If a tree is removed under a Tree Removal Permit, one or more specimen trees, with a total value equal to the value of the removed tree, must be planted on the property from which the tree was removed. The value of this removed tree is determined by the size, species and health of the tree.  In some cases, the City may require that the tree be relocated rather than cut down.

For assistance regarding how the Mature Tree Ordinance applies to your project, or if you have any questions on this or other planning related matters, please contact the Department of Environmental Services at (805) 583-6769.