Beverly Hills : Tree Ordinance Amended

Only tree owners can appeal a city tree-removal decision under a revised ordinance approved recently by the City Council.

The city’s tree law prohibits single-family homeowners from removing certain native trees and large “heritage” trees in front yards without a permit, and groves of trees growing anywhere on a property without a permit.

The revision was designed to head off disputes between neighbors over trees by limiting the appeals process to the tree owner. The council made an exception for urban groves and allowed residents other than the owner to appeal a city permit decision. Groves are regulated anywhere on a property and may affect neighboring property rights, city staffers said.

The revised ordinance also drops a requirement that a permit be posted on the property for two weeks after a tree has been removed.

The ordinance protects 16 species of trees on the city’s list of trees native to the area, and all trees with a circumference of 48 inches or more.

Property owners may apply for a permit to remove a dead or diseased tree or a tree that poses an immediate threat to health, safety or property. Trees that obstruct views may also be removed with a permit. Permits are authorized by thecity’s Building and Safety Department and may be appealed by the tree owner to the Planning Commission.