Sec. 26-264. - Penalties. — West Covina Zoning Code

(a)

Violation of any section of this division shall constitute a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of not more than one thousand dollars ($1,000.00) or by imprisonment not to exceed six (6) months, or both such fine and imprisonment. Each tree removed in violation of this division shall constitute a separate offense.

(b)

Violators may also be required to replace the tree(s) with a tree(s) of comparable size, type and condition as determined by the Community Development Director or their designee and in appropriate cases, the public works director.

(c)

In addition to the penalties imposed by subsections, (a) and (b) above, any person who destroys, removes or damages a significant tree or a heritage tree without a permit in circumstances in which a permit application has been denied, or would have been denied, shall be liable to the City for a civil penalty in an amount equal to the tree's full restitution value.

(d)

A building permit shall be deemed invalid or held by an official notice to stop work until either subsection (a) and/or (b) is effected.

(Ord. No. 2519, § 5(Exh. A), 2-20-24)

DIVISION 11. - ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT GUIDELINES AND PROCEDURES