Tree Removal

Tree Removal Requests

Cerritos parkway and street trees will only be removed if they are diseased, dying or dead, or if they pose a threat to public health or safety. Property owners can request a tree removal application under these circumstances by returning the Parkway Tree Removal Application Form to the Cerritos Public Works Department.

If the City agrees that the tree should be removed, it will be taken out and replaced at the City’s expense. If a street-tree removal request is denied by City staff, you may appeal that decision within 10 days to the City’s Property Preservation Commission, the citizens’ advisory group that helps maintain high standards for private property in Cerritos.

The commission will notify your neighbors when a public hearing has been scheduled to consider the removal. The Property Preservation Commission is authorized to remove no more than 50 trees each year. The City’s intent is to preserve street trees whenever possible for the enjoyment of the community.

Pay to Remove Program

The City’s Pay to Remove Program allows homeowners to pay for the cost of tree removal plus the cost to replace the tree (the replacement tree is specified by the City’s Public Works Department). The homeowner is financially responsible for any necessary repairs to the public right-of-way resulting from the pay to remove project.

If you are interested in participating in the program, please follow the steps below:

1. Retain a qualified tree maintenance contractor with a D49 license and a valid Contractor’s license issued by the State of California.
2. Complete the Parkway Tree Removal Application Form.
3. Visit the Public Works counter at City Hall to submit the Parkway Tree Removal Application Form and fill out a No-Fee Tree Removal Permit Application. Your contractor must also hold or obtain a City of Cerritos business license.
4. Submit the completed applications to the Public Works counter at City Hall. Once approved, the Trees Division will return a copy of the application to you and schedule a pre-inspection.
5. Once the tree removal project has been completed, the City will conduct a final inspection to determine the condition of the surrounding property and to ensure that the tree was trimmed within the standards described in the City’s Municipal Code.

If you have any questions, please contact the Cerritos Public Works Department at (562) 916-1220.