Santa Monica Urban Forest

The City of Santa Monica has a rich ecological history of forestry stewardship which has resulted in a diverse urban forest of over 35,000 public trees across more than 250 species. The Public Landscape Division maintains trees on public streets and throughout parks citywide. In addition to planting, pruning, and removing trees when necessary, the Public Landscape Division also routinely inspects and assesses tree health and protection and facilitates meetings of the Urban Forest Task Force. The consistent management and care that the urban forestry team demonstrates has earned the City of Santa Monica the designation of "Tree City USA" for 40 years as of 2021.

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FAQ

What do I do if I think a public tree is diseased and/or potentially dangerous?

The City’s Public Landscape Division has certified arborists to perform tree and risk inspections. Click here to make a request for tree service.

For urgent requests outside of business hours, call Santa Monica police dispatch at 310-458-8491.

For immediate life safety issues, call 911.

When will the public tree in front of my residence be trimmed?

Public trees are inspected on cycles, varying based on species and conditions, to determine if pruning is necessary. You can also request inspection and trimming by using the 311 system. Click here to make a request for tree service.

Can I plant, prune, or remove a tree?

The City’s Municipal Code (Chapter 7.40 Tree Code) requires a public works permit to plant or prune a public tree. Please note for street trees that the proposed species must conform to the species designations in the City’s Urban Forest Master Plan. The permit must be onsite during work. Pruning must be done by a licensed tree trimmer. Removals must be requested via the 311 system and may require approval from the Urban Forest Task Force.

The City of Santa Monica does not have jurisdiction over trees on private property. Please confirm with county and state agencies prior to removal of trees on private property.

I believe tree roots from street tree are posing harm to my sewer line. What do I do?

Tree roots do not actively break into intact sewer lines that are in a good state of repair. However, if the sewer line is cracked or broken, then tree roots may grow into the pipe. Broken sewer lines need to be repaired and/or have a liner installed. If tree roots need to be cut to facilitate the repair, you will need to hire a company to do so. This work must be completed under direction of the Public Landscape Division. You can request prior authorization from Public Landscape Division by using the 311 system. Click here to make a request for tree service.

A claim for reimbursement for this work must be filed with the Risk Management Division (310-458-8374) prior to starting the job.

Who waters newly planted street trees?

Newly planted trees are on a watering schedule for 18 months when they become established. If a tree dies within those first 18 months, it is replaced by the contractor at no charge to the City. Any supplemental watering of the tree outside your residence by you helps ensure our new trees thrive, particularly in the hotter months.