As Rains Continue Monday, Officials Urge Public to Keep Wary Eye on Trees

During the recent series of storms, 21 trees fell throughout Pasadena, according to reports received by the City. A Pasadena Fire Department official said it is likely more will collapse. As rains fall again Monday, the ground will again become oversaturated, increasing the dangers.

In a statement last week, The City recommended that residents use a certified arborist to help determine the health and status of trees on your property. The cycle of drought and now abundant rain can put stress on trees that may otherwise look healthy.

Trees that are leaning over and potentially ready to fall may also be removed without a permit once City representatives can verify the situation. If the tree is in immediate danger of falling, call 9-1-1. Otherwise, notify the City via the Citizen Service Center for help and inspection.

If a privately owned tree has fallen on private property, the owner is responsible for its removal. No tree removal permit is required from the city if the tree has already fallen. If the fallen tree is a life-threatening emergency, or has damaged structures and/or utilities, call 9-1-1. Otherwise please notify the City via the Citizen Service Center of your non-emergency tree situation. Should the tree fall into the street, please call 9-1-1 as the fallen tree can be blocking emergency vehicle access to your neighborhood.

City trees are generally located in the center medians or in the parkway strip areas along streets in the space between the sidewalk and the roadway. If there is no sidewalk on the property, it is possible that City-owned trees may still be present at the front edge of a property. When in doubt, call the Pasadena Citizen Service Center at (626) 744-7311 to request an inspection by the Department of Public Works, Parks and Natural Resources Division.

City officials urge the public to only use a currently licensed and insured contractor for any work at their property, including the emergency removal of a downed tree. Ask to see a copy of the contractor’s current insurance policy and go online to check the status of a contractor’s license with the State of California at: https://www2.cslb.ca.gov/OnlineServices/CheckLicenseII/CheckLicense.aspx.

The City maintains its Urban Forest based on guidelines from the International Society of Arboriculture, which is the professional organization that also certifies tree experts. More information about finding certified arborists can be found online at www.isa-arbor.com.

Got storm damage? Make sure Los Angeles County officials know! To complete a damage assessment survey go to www.211LA.org and click on the link for Damage Assessment Survey. At this website, residents can also find up-to-date weather info, road closures and emergency preparedness tips.

The City’s Citizen Service Center operates from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, at (626) 744-7311.