Is Planting a Liquidambar Tree Illegal in California?

Many Californians love to plant trees in their yards and gardens, but not every tree variety is legal to plant within the state's borders. One tree variety that has stirred up some controversy over the years is the liquidambar, officially known as Liquidambar styraciflua. So, is it illegal to plant a liquidambar tree in California? The answer is not straightforward, and it depends on where you live within the state.

The Controversy Around Liquidambar Trees in California

Liquidambar trees are native to the southeastern United States and are known for their gorgeous autumn colors, tall stature, and sweet sap that is used to make chewing gum. However, these trees have been associated with some issues in California, including:

Invasive roots: Liquidambar trees are known for their aggressive root systems, which can cause problems in residential areas. The roots can clog up pipes, buckle sidewalks, and damage home foundations if planted too close to a house.

Allergies: Some people are sensitive to the pollen produced by liquidambar trees, which can cause hay fever and other allergy symptoms.

Fire hazard: Liquidambar leaves are highly combustible, making them a potential fire hazard in dry areas.

These issues have led some areas in California to ban or restrict the planting of liquidambar trees.

Where is it Illegal to Plant a Liquidambar Tree in California?

As of 2021, only one city in California has an outright ban on planting liquidambar trees: Redondo Beach. In this coastal city, planting a liquidambar is against the law and subject to a fine. This ban was put in place to address the invasive root issue, as liquidambar roots were causing property damage and were expensive to remove.

Other cities in California have restrictions on planting liquidambar trees, but not a full ban. For example, in Glendale, residents must obtain a permit to plant a liquidambar tree, and the tree must be planted at least 25 feet away from any building. In Los Angeles, liquidambar trees are classified as "special disposition" trees and are subject to strict guidelines for planting and caring for them.

Conclusion

So, is planting a liquidambar tree illegal in California? It depends on where you live. While Redondo Beach has a complete ban on planting these trees, other cities have restrictions in place to manage the invasive root issue and other problems associated with the tree. If you're thinking about planting a liquidambar tree, make sure to check with your local city or municipality to determine what regulations are in place.