Before an LA SHRA lot split, make a tree list
A tree near the sidewalk can be easy to leave out of an early sketch. Before you plan a lot split, give the trees their own page in your project folder.
For the City of Los Angeles, the October 28, 2025 SHRA implementation memo says subdivision applications need a Tree Disclosure Statement (CP-4067). A Tree Report (CP-4068) prepared by an arborist may also be needed. An arborist is a tree specialist.
Start with a simple tree note
This is a way to organize questions, not an official report. From a safe place where you have permission to be, make one note for each tree you can see:
Location: front yard, side yard, rear yard, or near the sidewalk.
Photo and date: give each photo a short name that matches your note.
What you know: if you do not know the tree type, write “unknown.”
Open question: could this tree affect the proposed driveway, lot line, or building area?
For example: “Tree A — near front sidewalk — photo A — type unknown — ask whether it is a street tree.” Do not guess a property boundary from where a fence happens to sit.
Bring three questions to the project team
Which trees or shrubs need a specialist’s review?
Does this site need an arborist’s report, and who will prepare it?
Can the first design keep these trees in place?
The City memo encourages designs that preserve protected or other significant mature trees. It also says protected tree or shrub removal needs approval, and street-tree removal needs StreetsLA approval. A lot-split plan is not a reason to cut first and ask later.
Check which rules apply to the address
SHRA means Starter Home Revitalization Act. The linked memo covers the City of Los Angeles under Chapter 1 of its zoning code. It is not County-wide guidance. Ask City Planning which code and tree requirements apply to your site before relying on this checklist.
Keep the tree notes beside your early sketch. That gives your planner, designer, and tree specialist the same clear set of questions to work through.
Source and publishing note
Los Angeles City Planning: SHRA implementation memo, October 28, 2025, pages 8–9. Source checked October 12, 2026.
Published by Nshanyan Enterprises. Prepared with AI assistance using the linked City source. This is general information, not legal advice or a finding that a property qualifies.
