A tree growing directly in front of a Torrance home may feel like part of the property, particularly when the resident waters it, rakes its leaves, and sees it every day.

But when that tree stands within the public parkway or right of way, its maintenance is generally governed by the City.

Torrance’s Streetscape Division manages trees located in public rights of way, including trees planted in residential parkways, roadway medians, and along major streets. The City reports planting hundreds of trees annually as part of its urban-forest program.

Homeowners should not assume they may freely prune, remove, replace, or substantially alter a street tree.

Improper trimming can damage the tree, create unstable growth, expose it to disease, interfere with utilities, and generate liability or enforcement concerns.

Residents who notice broken branches, signs of disease, unsafe conditions, root problems, or other maintenance issues can contact the City for evaluation.

Homeowners who prefer not to wait for the normal City maintenance schedule may have another option.

Torrance’s Street Tree Policy allows a homeowner to hire a City-approved private contractor to trim the City tree in front of the property after obtaining the required permit. The City does not charge for that permit, but the property owner is responsible for selecting the approved contractor and paying all related costs.

The City provides the list of eligible contractors as part of the permit process.

Some specially designated areas are subject to additional protections and may be excluded from the private-contractor trimming process. Residents should therefore confirm eligibility before arranging any work.

Homeowners should also distinguish between a public street tree and a tree located entirely on private property.

A survey, property record, parkway location, or City determination may be necessary when ownership is unclear. The presence of a tree beside a front yard does not, by itself, establish who controls it.

Before beginning work, residents should ask:

• Is the trunk within the public right of way?
• Is this tree maintained by the City?
• Is a permit required?
• Must the contractor come from an approved list?
• Is the property within a specially protected area?
• Could the work affect power lines, sidewalks, sewers, or underground utilities?
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Removing a tree without authorization can be especially problematic because mature street trees provide shade, reduce heat, absorb stormwater, support neighborhood character, and represent a public investment.

The safest rule is simple: when a tree stands between the sidewalk and curb—or close enough that its status is uncertain—contact Torrance Public Works before touching it.

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