U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Clarifies Tree Removal Procedures for Eaton Fire Cleanup

The United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) has established clear guidelines for tree removal during the Eaton Fire debris cleanup in Altadena, prioritizing both public safety and tree preservation. Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Kathryn Barger secured these clarifications and announced them during her weekly Monday community briefing on Monday.

Col. Sonny Avichal confirmed that only hazardous trees posing threats to public safety will be considered for removal, as directed by Federal Emergency Management Agency orders.

“We recognize the value trees have in the Altadena community and that we must take a balanced approach that errs on the side of preserving trees as much as possible,” said Col. Sonny Avichal, commander of the USACE’s field operations for the cleanup.

The USACE currently has 16 crews working in the area with more expected to join in coming days, according to a federal source.

Col. Avichal explained that the USACE employs certified arborists to assess trees based on canopy and root damage, fall zones, and likelihood of death within five years, in accordance with Federal Emergency Management Agency orders.

Before debris removal begins on private properties, field teams and contractors will conduct comprehensive walkthroughs with property owners. Homeowners will be consulted about trees on their property, and their signed consent will be required before any tree is removed.

Property owners are to be given at least five days’ advance notice before debris removal begins.

During the briefing, the USACE displayed a tree marking diagram, explaining that trees deemed an immediate or imminent hazard will be designated with a barcode and three blue dots. However, Col. Avichal said pointedly that “not all marked trees will be removed. Trees will only be removed with property owners’ consent.”

Property owners can indicate their preference for trees to remain untouched on their Right of Entry forms and discuss specific trees during the in-person site walkthrough.

Additionally, stumps will not be removed as part of the cleanup effort.

Supervisor Barger reaffirmed her commitment to tree preservation in Altadena.

“I strongly oppose the cutting down of trees in Altadena,” Barger said. “I was assured that property owners would be given at least five days’ advance notice before debris removal begins, along with the opportunity to understand whether a tree on their property has been deemed unsafe or requires removal.”

Addressing recent community concerns regarding tree removals that have circulated on social media, Barger stated, “I have reiterated my expectations to the Corps that these decisions must be made carefully, with thorough communication to property owners to prevent any removals without engagement and support. Trees are a defining feature of Altadena’s character, and I fully support every effort to preserve them. Every possible action must be taken to protect these precious community assets.”