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Laguna Woods · Building on your lot

Tree removal in Laguna Woods

Laguna Woods's own rules on tree removal, with the code text for every value.

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

What Laguna Woods's code says

Laguna Woods code What Laguna Woods's code adds
Exemptions
  • Topping a significant tree is not allowed, except before removing it because of a threat to life or property.
    Applies: Applies to significant trees.
    § 4.26.070 · code text
    The topping of any significant tree is prohibited except as a precursor to the ultimate removal of the tree as a result of a threat to life or property.
Permit to remove
  • Yes, a permit is required.
    Applies: Applies to removing any significant tree on public or private land covered by this chapter.
    § 4.26.060 · code text
    A permit shall be required to remove any significant tree on public or private land to which this chapter applies.
Replacement trees
  • Replace each inch of trunk diameter removed with an equal number of caliper inches, 1-for-1.
    Applies: Unless the City Forester decides otherwise for good cause.
    § 4.26.060 · code text
    for every inch of diameter (DBH) removed, an equal number of caliper inches shall be replaced
  • The responsible party must guarantee the replacement tree's health for at least 2 years.
    Applies: Applies to replacement trees required by this chapter.
    § 4.26.060 · code text
    the responsible party shall guaranty the tree's health for a period of not less than two years.

Who this affects

HomeownersContractorsDesigners

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Laguna Woods?

Laguna Woods's code: Yes, a permit is required. (Applies to removing any significant tree on public or private land covered by this chapter.) (§ 4.26.060); Replace each inch of trunk diameter removed with an equal number of caliper inches, 1-for-1. (Unless the City Forester decides otherwise for good cause.) (§ 4.26.060).

General information, not legal advice.

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Laguna Woods Municipal Code — full text