Chris Parker / October 20, 2021
Much like the trees they are required to protect, Urban Forestry Department’s influence has grown rapidly in recent years and has become, in many instances, a real obstacle to City of Los Angeles development.
Some of the recent actions from UFD include adding new fees, expanding the protected trees ordinance, changing the definition of “Tree Expert” and allowing community input as part of the tree removal review process. In addition, Urban Forestry staff have been tasked with the mandate to preserve the urban canopy, including the street trees in the public right of way and “significant” sized trees. Unless the tree removal is clearly deemed necessary because of grading or building footprint, the project may be asked to redesign around the tree.
New Fees
Late last month, the City Council approved and Mayor Garcetti signed off on a fee schedule for tree removal applications and permits. The amendment to the Protected Tree ordinance sets the permit application fee at $806. In addition, there’s an inspection fee based upon the number of protected trees/bushes in the application starting at approximately $3,000 for 2 protected trees and jumping to approximately $6,000 for 6-10 trees.
The new fees take effect Nov. 5.
Tree Expert
The new ordinance also limits the definition of “Tree Expert” to certified arborists and registered consulting arborists. Landscape Architects can no longer write Tree Reports or Tree Letters for an Urban Forestry submittal.
Community Forest Advisory Committee (CFAC)
The newly created Community Forest Advisory Committee is now a part of the review process for Tree Removal Permit requests. After Urban Forestry has accepted and reviewed the submittal packet, UFD will then send the packet to the local City Council office and CFAC for a 30-day review period where CFAC members have the opportunity to ask questions and share concerns regarding the tree removal request.
Bottom Line
So now with the upcoming permit fees, expanded tree report guidelines, and longer review process, Urban Forestry review can be a critical path for projects. Plus, city offices are still closed because of the on-going pandemic, so some processes that would have been handled over-the-counter now can take several months. When developing and designing projects, it is crucial to include an assessment of the protected species on the property and all trees in the public right-of-way that may be impacted by construction.
For more information or help with a tree removal permit, please contact PCC’s Jennifer Parker: Jennifer@pccla.com or 818-591-9309
