Beverly Hills : Ban on Tree Removal Passes

The City Council voted 4 to 0 to revise and extend a temporary ordinance prohibiting residents from destroying or removing large trees from their property without city permission. The ordinance applies to trees 30 inches or more in diameter and will be in effect until next September, when a more detailed, permanent ordinance is to be introduced.

City building and safety department officials are authorized to grant permission for tree removal if a tree is seriously diseased, poses a threat to public safety and for other reasons.

The department’s decision can be reviewed by the Planning Commission, the Residential Development Review Board or the City Council. If a tree does not meet one of eight criteria for authorization by city staff, City Council permission is needed to remove it.