Fact Page

On Monday, January 10, 2025, the City of Glendale received reports of tree trimming and removal at the Glendale Garden Home Apartments. Upon inspection, City staff determined that work was being conducted without the required permits. Code Enforcement responded promptly, issuing an administrative citation and a stop work order. At that time, all landscape work was halted. It was confirmed that five trees had already been removed.

 

The case was referred to the City Attorney’s Office on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, and an investigation was initiated to evaluate the scope of the activity and verify compliance with local regulations.

 

Update as of April 2025:

 

Following a comprehensive review by City departments, the City of Glendale confirms that the tree work currently underway at the site is being conducted under proper legal authority. The activity is now part of a revised plan and is being carried out by tree work professionals to address critical public safety and site maintenance concerns. This work specifically targets:

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• Dead, diseased, or structurally compromised trees

• Trees within five feet of structures where pruning is not viable

• Overgrown vegetation contributing to elevated fire risk

 

From a fire safety perspective, the Glendale Fire Department has confirmed that many of the trees within 5 feet of a structure and surrounding vegetation had been significantly neglected, with several limbs resting on or impacting building rooflines. The tree removals now proceeding are aligned with fire prevention best practices.

 

From a historic preservation standpoint, the City’s preservation staff note that while the site is of historic interest, its significance lies in the interrelationship between the buildings and their landscape setting—not necessarily in the specific trees or plants present today. As such, the loss of several trees and smaller vegetation does not compromise the site's overall historic value.

 

As reviewed by the City’s Forestry Section, a small number of trees initially marked for removal may only require pruning to achieve safety clearances. These decisions are being left to the judgment of the certified arborist working with the property owner, in accordance with City guidelines.

 

The City of Glendale remains committed to balancing environmental preservation, historic sensitivity, and public safety. We thank our residents for their engagement and vigilance. Further updates will be provided as new information becomes available.