How to Get a Tree Removal Permit in Lancaster, CA
Understanding the tree removal permit process in Lancaster, CA helps avoid fines and protect native trees.
Sometimes a tree just has to go. Maybe it’s sick, dangerously leaning, or standing in the way of that patio you’ve been dreaming about for years. Whatever the reason, if you’re in Lancaster, CA, you might need more than just a chainsaw and a Saturday morning. Depending on the tree and the situation, you could need a tree removal permit. Navigating the rules isn’t always as simple as you’d hope.
Don’t worry though. We’re Tip Top Arborists, and this is what we do best. Whether your oak has outgrown its welcome or your pine has started doing its best Leaning Tower of Pisa impression, we’ll walk you through how to handle the paperwork (and the tree) the right way.
Do You Even Need a Permit?
Let’s start with the big question. Do you need a permit to remove a tree in Lancaster?
Well, that depends. In Lancaster, tree removal regulations aim to protect both public safety and the environment. The city wants to make sure people aren’t cutting down heritage or protected trees without good reason. But they’re not trying to make life harder than it has to be.
Generally speaking, here’s when you’ll likely need a permit:
You’re removing a tree on commercial or multi-family property
The tree is considered protected (based on species, size, or location)
You’re in a designated zoning area that regulates tree removal
You’re dealing with public trees (like trees near sidewalks or in parkways)
If you’re working on your own private, single-family residential lot, and the tree isn’t protected or located in a regulated area, you might not need a permit at all. But when in doubt, ask the city or call someone like us. It’s better to check than get hit with a fine. Or worse, be told to replant a fully grown tree. Yikes.
What Counts as a Protected Tree?
Ah, the protected ones. These trees are the VIPs of the Lancaster landscape, usually big, beautiful, and environmentally valuable. Here’s what the City of Lancaster (or Los Angeles County, in some cases) tends to consider protected:
Oak trees over a certain size
Joshua Trees (these have state-level protections too)
California native trees of a particular size or age
Trees part of an approved landscape plan or urban development area
The rules may vary slightly depending on your exact location in the Antelope Valley. But the main idea is: if a tree is large, native, or part of the city’s development plan, it might be protected. You can usually find out by referencing city zoning maps or giving the Planning Department a ring.
How to Apply for a Tree Removal Permit in Lancaster
Let’s get to the good part. What to do if you do need a permit? Here’s the step-by-step version, Tip Top style.
1. Gather Your Details
Before you fill out anything, you’ll need a few key pieces of info:
The location of the tree
The type of tree (species, height, trunk diameter, etc.)
Photos of the tree in question
A brief explanation of why it needs to be removed
A site plan or sketch if the tree is part of a development project
This stuff helps the city decide if the removal is reasonable. If it’s dead, diseased, or causing damage, that’s often reason enough. If it’s just blocking your view, well, that might be a tougher sell.
2. Submit the Tree Removal Application
You can get the permit application directly from the City of Lancaster Planning Division or access it online through the city’s official website. They’ve been working on making things more accessible, but there’s still a little red tape.
Here’s where you send it:
City of Lancaster – Planning Division
44933 Fern Avenue
Lancaster, CA 93534
(661) 723-6100
cityoflancasterca.org
Sometimes they’ll want you to submit the application in person. But they may also accept it via email. Call ahead or check the website to confirm.
3. Wait for Review (Be Patient, Kind Of)
Once submitted, the city reviews your request. This can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks. It depends on the complexity of the request and how backed up the Planning Department is.
They might send someone to inspect the site or ask for more documentation. If the tree is protected or in a sensitive area, they may also consult with an arborist or city landscaper.
4. Approval or Denial
If approved, you’ll receive a formal notice, usually with conditions. These could include:
Replacing the tree with a new one (native trees preferred)
Paying a mitigation fee
Following special removal procedures
If denied, you can usually appeal. Especially if the tree poses a safety risk or is causing property damage.
5. Get It Done the Right Way
Permit in hand? Now it’s time to take that tree down. But before you start hacking away, make sure:
You hire a licensed, insured tree service (like Tip Top Arborists)
You follow any permit conditions
You properly dispose of debris and stumps
You replant if required
We know it’s not the most glamorous part of homeownership. But doing it the right way keeps you legal, safe, and friendly with your neighbors and city officials.
Common Mistakes People Make
Skipping the permit: It’s tempting, especially if it’s your tree on your property. But if it’s protected or causes a neighborhood stir, you could face fines or forced replanting.
Misidentifying the tree: Think it’s a scrub oak when it’s a protected valley oak? That mistake can cost you.
Using unlicensed contractors: Besides being risky, it could also void your permit.
Not checking zoning overlays: Some parts of Lancaster, especially new developments or conservation areas, have stricter rules.
When You Definitely Need Help
There are situations where calling a professional is less of a luxury and more of a necessity. These include:
You’re not sure if the tree is protected
You’ve already received a notice of violation
The tree is near power lines, structures, or public walkways
You need help with the permit application process
At Tip Top Arborists, we help homeowners and businesses through this process all the time. We’ll assess the tree, explain your options, and even handle the permit paperwork for you. It’s part of our job to make things simple, safe, and stress-free.
Final Thoughts: Be Smart, Not Sorry
Removing a tree in Lancaster isn’t something you want to rush or guess your way through. Whether it’s because of safety concerns or a landscape upgrade, taking the time to understand the local regulations and securing the right permits makes a big difference.
And hey, if you’d rather not deal with the paperwork at all, give us a call. We’ve been handling Lancaster’s trees and tree headaches since 1976. With Tip Top, you don’t just get a crew with saws. You get a team that knows the rules, the city, and how to leave your yard looking better than ever.
Need a second opinion or just want peace of mind?
Give Tip Top Arborists a call. We’ve been keeping Lancaster’s trees in tip-top shape since 1976.