Although you should remove a tree only as a last resort, several scenarios justify the need for tree removal. For example, a tree in your yard may have succumbed to disease, or you may have a tree interfering with your remodeling project.
To preserve urban forestry, most jurisdictions have tree ordinances that restrict tree removal. As the top-rated tree removal service in Torrance, the professional arborists at Gutierrez & Sons Tree Service and Landscaping will highlight a couple of local tree removal laws.
Tree Removal Permit Requirements
Anyone planning to remove a tree in any park, street, alley, or public place must first obtain a permit from the Public Works Director. The permit will have a validity period of 30 days and meet the following criteria:
- The property owner immediately adjacent to the tree in question must complete a permit application.
- Only a city-approved tree service or contractor can perform permitted tree services.
- The property owner must pay all tree removal costs.
- Any tree removal must comply with City standards.
- The City requires service contractors to meet reasonable requirements concerning insurance, equipment, employee licensing and qualifications, and insurance.
In addition to the tree removal laws, the City of Torrance permits the removal of any parkway tree in the Hillside Overlay District subject to the criteria mentioned above, provided that the Streetscape Administrator will select all new or replacement parkway trees from a list of limited-height trees.
Removing Trees Hazardous to Travel
The Superintendent of Parks may inspect any trees on private property or in public places that overhang or project into any public place to determine whether the tree restricts the vision or progress of any person traveling on such street, alley, park, or public place.
Consequently, the Superintendent may decide to remove such tree or plant if it proves obstructive or hazardous to the traveling public.
Removal of Trees at Intersections
The Superintendent of Parks shall not remove, cut down, or trim any tree (considered a nuisance because of its location at an intersection) on private property unless they provide ten days’ notice in writing to the property’s owner or occupant.
Hire a Certified Arborist
Not sure whether the tree in your yard requires a permit for removal? Seek the advice of a local certified arborist. A certified arborist will save you time and money by providing expert insight into tree removal laws and permits. Most seasoned arborists have extensive experience handling tree removal permits and offer such services.
Get in Touch with Your Local Tree Service
Look to Gutierrez & Sons Tree Service and Landscaping for tree services and landscaping that stand above the rest. We focus on quality, safety, and transparent communication. The most common services we help with include:
- Emergency services
- Artificial turf installation
- Palm tree trimming and skinning
- Bush and weed abatement
- Tree planting
Call Gutierrez & Sons Tree Service and Landscaping at (310) 324-6593 to request a free, no-obligation quote for tree service in Torrance, CA, or nearby. Reach out to learn about the best time to remove trees or for more information about tree removal laws in Torrance.