On Nov. 17, 2025, the Thousand Oaks Planning Commission voted 4-0 to approve Protected Tree Permit PTP-2025-70043 to remove one coast live oak tree adjacent to a single-family residence at 2183 Ken Ross Court. Staff said the tree's roots are causing visible uplift and cracking to exterior hardscape and interior flooring and that removal is necessary to protect life and property.

Community Development staff presenter Greg Gomez described the tree as approximately 49 inches in trunk diameter and about 50 feet tall, with roots lifting an enclosure wall and gate and cracking interior floors. "Staff recommends the Planning Commission find that the project is categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to sections 15301 (existing facilities) and 15304 (minor alterations to land) and adopt a resolution approving Protected Tree Permit PTP-2025-70043," Gomez said.

Applicant Daniel Vivian, who identified himself as the resident at 2183 Ken Ross Court, told the commission he and his family are worried about safety after recent wind events. "My main concerns are my safety, my family's safety, and then destruction of the property," Vivian said, adding that the upstairs bedrooms would be the first place hit if the tree failed.

Commissioner Lanson, who moved to adopt the attached resolution on the staff report findings and conditions, said he understood the desire to preserve Oaks but prioritized people. "People are more important," Lanson said before moving approval. The motion passed with Commissioners Buss, Lanson, McMahon and Vice Chair Tyler Kettlehut voting yes; Chair Farris was absent.

The resolution adopted the staff findings that reasonable mitigation could not prevent continued damage and that removal was justified under the city's oak tree preservation and protection guidelines and applicable sections of the Thousand Oaks Municipal Code. The commission's approval is subject to the standard 10-day appeal period; staff said any aggrieved party may appeal the decision to the Community Development Department within 10 days.

The Planning Commission record and staff report list the applicant as Daniel Vivian and the project address as 2183 Ken Ross Court. The permit file is referenced as PTP-2025-70043.