Pasadena Considers Major Changes to 85-Year-Old Street Tree Policy

Pasadena’s Municipal Services Committee will consider sweeping changes to the city’s Master Street Tree Plan on Tuesday, opening the door for residents to plant alternative species in fire-prone areas.

According to the Department of Public Works, the proposed amendments would mark the most significant update to the 1940 tree policy. They would allow property owners to bypass traditional species designations under specific safety and environmental conditions.

The changes stem from a Fairfield Circle resident’s request to replace Italian Cypress trees, the Public Works Department report said. Concerns centered on limited shade and fire hazards.

Staff recommended two alternatives: Strawberry trees and Noble Laurel trees. Most residents preferred Noble Laurel.

The Urban Forestry Advisory Committee unanimously backed the Noble Laurel replacement in a previous meeting. But the Design Commission split 3-3, blocking the proposal.

A broader “General Amendment” would create an Alternative Tree Species List, the report said. The list could be used in three scenarios: public safety in fire zones, preventing pest-related tree losses, and supporting neighborhood-specific plans.

The alternative species list draws from UC Davis climate studies and Pasadena Audubon Society recommendations. It emphasizes climate-resilient, ecologically diverse and native trees.

Design Commission members expressed concern about the list, saying it appeared arbitrary and lacked clear selection criteria. They urged additional studies before implementation. They also recommended prohibiting fire-prone species in high-risk zones.

The amendment would not automatically authorize removal of healthy public trees. The Department of Public Works expects minimal fiscal impact.

The committee meets at 4 p.m. in City Council Chambers at City Hall.