Tree removal in San Dimas: the local rules

Each rule below links to the section of the San Dimas Municipal Code it was read from, with the code text one click away (checked October 2026). General information, not legal advice.

What San Dimas's code says

San Dimas code What San Dimas's code adds
Penalty	Replacing each removed tree with up to 4 trees. Applies: After a conviction, instead of jail, as a condition of probation. § 18.162.130 · code text requiring the replacement of each tree removed in violation of this chapter with up to four trees of a similar species of not less than a twenty-four inch box size, or other replacement of equivalent value and size, whichever is greater.
Permit to remove	Yes, a tree removal permit (the director's written approval) for mature significant trees. Applies: Undeveloped property; required before any grading or building permit. § 18.162.030 · code text A tree removal permit is required. Yes, with approval of the community development director or the planning commission. Applies: Mature significant trees on developed property; the planning division may approve up to 3. § 18.162.040 · code text Mature significant trees may be removed from developed property with the approval of the director of community development or the planning commission subject to the following procedures: Topping or severe pruning that limits future growth counts as removing the tree. Applies: As determined by a Certified Arborist. § 18.162.110 · code text Topping and/or severe pruning of trees that results in significant damage to the tree to the point that reasonable future growth may be limited, as determined by a Certified Arborist, shall constitute a tree removal and is subject to the penalties outlined in Section 18.162.130;
Replacement trees	Up to 4 similar trees, at least 24-inch box, or equal value and size, whichever is greater, or director-approved security. Applies: Before a development permit is issued for a lot where trees were removed in violation of the rules. § 18.162.130 · code text unless and until the owner of such lot has replaced each such tree, to an on-site or off-site location pursuant to the provisions of this section, with up to four trees of a similar species of not less than twenty-four inch box size, or of equivalent value and size, whichever is greater, or provided security satisfactory to the director of development services that such trees will be planted at such time as determined by the director.

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Frequently asked questions

Do I need a permit to remove a tree in San Dimas?

San Dimas's code: Yes, a tree removal permit (the director's written approval) for mature significant trees. (Undeveloped property; required before any grading or building permit.) (§ 18.162.030); Up to 4 similar trees, at least 24-inch box, or equal value and size, whichever is greater, or director-approved security. (Before a development permit is issued for a lot where trees were removed in violation of the rules.) (§ 18.162.130).

Tree removal in San Dimas

What San Dimas's code says

Who this affects

Frequently asked questions

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