Planning commission approves removal of a 141‑inch coast live oak at Casitas of Larkspur with replanting requirement

The Larkspur Planning Commission on March 10 approved a heritage tree removal permit for a coast live oak with a 141‑inch circumference at 220 Lower Via Casitas, adopting the arborist’s recommendation while adding a condition that the homeowners association must replace the tree if it is removed.

Staff presented HTR26‑004 and summarized the arborist’s findings: a canopy imbalance, recent limb failure, decay on major structural limbs and at the tree base, and a suspected Phytophthora pathogen. Staff reported that one written protest had been submitted within the municipal code’s 15‑day protest period, which required the item to come to the commission for review.

The HOA’s arborist, Eric Barnum, described recent storm damage and internal decay, saying about “a third of the tree split off” in recent storms and that decay at the base and in major limbs increased the likelihood of failure toward nearby structures. He recommended removal as the safest course based on visual inspection and his professional judgment, while noting an advanced sonic tomography assessment would cost about $1,000 if the commission wanted more data.

Several long‑time owners and residents, including Rachel Stephenson and Kim Stromwasser, urged the commission to require or allow an independent arborist evaluation and to consider structural pruning and other mitigation before removal. Stephenson cited the property’s design history and the tree’s symbolic value and asked for an independent assessment under Larkspur Municipal Code 12.16.070.

Commissioners discussed their role in balancing the city’s heritage‑tree protections and public safety. Multiple commissioners said the arborist reports supporting removal were persuasive and that the commission could make the required findings for removal; at least one commissioner expressed regret at removing a mature oak but emphasized safety given the proximity to buildings and the arborist’s observations. One commissioner asked that, if removal is authorized, the commission add a condition requiring replacement plantings; staff confirmed the commission has authority to require replanting under the municipal code.

The commission voted to approve the permit to remove the coast live oak, adding a condition that the HOA replace the tree if removed. Roll call recorded five yes votes and the motion carried.

Next steps: The HOA may proceed with removal per the permit and the replacement condition; staff will ensure required documentation and mitigation/​replanting arrangements are included in the final permit and conditions.