Tree Permits and the Tree Protection OrdinanceIn 1992 Ventura County adopted the Ventura County Tree Protection Ordinance. The ordinance applies to the pruning (beyond specified limits), removal, trenching, excavation, or other encroachment into the protected zone (5′ outside the canopy’s edge and a minimum of 15′ from the trunk) of protected trees in unincorporated areas (land outside of cities). Protected trees include all oaks and sycamores 9.5″ in circumference or larger (measured 4.5′ above ground), trees of any species with a historical designation, trees of any species 90″ in circumference or larger, and most 9.5″ native trees in the Scenic Resources Protection Zone. Before any protected tree is trimmed, removed, or encroached upon, property owners should contact the Planning Division to ensure these activities are conducted in compliance with the Tree Protection Ordinance. A permit is required for many of these activities. The ordinance language provides more information. The purpose of the regulations is “to encourage the responsible management of these resources by employing public education and recognized conservation techniques to achieve optimal cover of healthy trees of diverse ages and species while practically reconciling conflicting demands for alternative uses.” The County also adopted Tree Protection Guidelines which supplement the ordinance and further explain and amplify the ordinance requirements. Included are approval standards for both ministerial and discretionary permits, how the value of a tree may be determined, and alternative methods of mitigation for removed trees. To report violations to the Tree Protection Ordinance, contact the County’s Code Compliance Division at 805/654-2788 or click here to fill out a complaint form. |
► Tree Permit Application  |
| ► Non-Coastal Zoning Ordinance Section 8107-25 (Tree Protection Ordinance) |
| ► Tree Protection Guidelines |
| ► Tree Protection Ordinance Public Brochure |
| ► List of Certified Tree Trimmers |
| ► Form for Certification as a Qualified Tree Trimmer |
| ► Scenic Resource Protection Overlay Map |
| ► Historical Trees in Ventura County |
