Yes, appropriate to this thread, there is much bureaucracy involved in removing trees in most California counties. You probably would be required to submit an EIR ($$$). You at least would be required to submit a landscape plan stamped by a licensed landscape architect ($$). Big fines are imposed if trees are removed without the proper permits ($$$$). In Santa Barbara County, if you take down an oak tree you have to replace it with 10 oaks elsewhere on the property ($$$). There is a vast administration just waiting to process your application to remove a tree, and another vast administration just waiting to fine you if you do it without a permit. This is the lovely society that we have created.
Put a glide in your stride and a dip in your hip.