Ventura holds first community meeting on permanent tree ordinance; second set for Oct. 20

The City of Ventura held its first community meeting Monday evening on a proposed permanent Tree Protection Ordinance, with a second meeting scheduled for Oct. 20 and City Council consideration set for Oct. 27.

Why now. The city adopted an Emergency Tree Protection Ordinance in February 2026 following unauthorized tree removal and trimming within a known monarch butterfly overwintering habitat area, according to the city's Proposed Tree Protection Ordinance page. The permanent ordinance is intended to protect and enhance Ventura's urban forest while establishing clear standards for tree preservation, removal, and replacement.

The process. Development began following City Council direction in mid-December 2025 and has included recommendations from the Tree Advisory Ad Hoc Committee, Parks and Recreation Commission, and Planning Commission, as well as input from city departments, local arborists, community organizations, and other stakeholders. The proposed ordinances were presented to the City Council on July 7, 2026. Since then, staff have incorporated council and community input.

What the ordinance does. The proposed ordinance would establish clear, reasonable, and enforceable standards for the protection, pruning, and removal of protected trees within the city. It would require a permit before removing a protected tree or performing major pruning on a protected tree, and includes provisions for tree replacement.

Meeting details. Community meetings are being held Oct. 5 (5:30-6:30 p.m. at Ventura City Hall Atrium, 501 Poli Street) and Oct. 20 (5:30-6:30 p.m. at Ventura City Hall Community Meeting Room, 501 Poli Street). Virtual input opportunities are available October 1-18.

Next steps. The proposed ordinance will be presented to the Ventura City Council on Oct. 27, 2026. Residents can share comments and questions through the city's input form by Oct. 18, 2026.