How Tree Preservation Ordinances Affect Site Planning

Florida’s Protected Trees Can Shape Your Entire Site Plan.

Developers in Florida are often surprised to learn how much a tree can change a site plan. Local governments across the state have implemented strict tree preservation ordinances that affect everything from lot coverage and driveway location to utility placement and stormwater design.

In this post, RSP Engineers explains how tree ordinances impact land development projects, the steps civil engineers take to ensure compliance, and what you should know before you clear a site.

Florida municipalities and counties have adopted tree preservation ordinances to protect mature native trees, mitigate heat islands, and promote ecological balance in urban development. For civil engineers and developers, these ordinances can introduce complex design constraints that require early planning and coordination with landscape architects and arborists.

Ignoring preservation requirements can lead to permit delays, costly redesigns, and penalties—making it essential to incorporate tree assessments into the early stages of site planning.

Project Impacts of Tree Preservation Ordinances

Tree preservation ordinances typically regulate:

• The removal of "protected" or "heritage" trees

• Minimum tree canopy coverage

• Replanting ratios for removed trees

• Location and buffer zone requirements

Each municipality has its own definitions and thresholds, but compliance is generally enforced through site plan review during the permitting process.

Typical Site Planning Constraints

Site Element Affected	Tree Ordinance Constraint	Engineering Solution
Building Footprint	Cannot encroach on tree protection zones	Reconfigure layout or shift building pad
Utility Corridors	Trenching restricted near tree roots	Route utilities around root zones or bore under
Driveways & Sidewalks	Preserved trees may obstruct typical layout	Adjust geometry or use permeable surfaces
Stormwater Systems	Tree roots conflict with underground infrastructure	Modify pond design or switch to above-ground conveyance

How Civil Engineers Coordinate Tree Preservation

At RSP Engineers, we typically start by reviewing the tree survey in parallel with boundary and topographic surveys. Working closely with environmental consultants and arborists, our team evaluates:

• Which trees are protected or specimen trees

• How tree preservation affects buildable area

• What mitigation or replacement may be required

This information is factored into site grading, drainage plans, utility routing, and permitting packages.

Ordinance Variability Across Florida

Tree preservation regulations vary widely across jurisdictions. For example:

• City of Tampa: Requires tree trust fund contributions for some removals.

• Miami-Dade County: Enforces canopy coverage and replanting ratios.

• Orlando: Mandates minimum tree density per acre.

Understanding these local differences is key to an efficient and compliant site design.

Why It Matters for Developers

Failing to consider tree preservation early can derail your project schedule. Trees identified as protected after design is complete may require:

• Redesign of site plans

• Relocation of structures or infrastructure

• Additional arborist reports or mitigation fees

By integrating these constraints early, civil engineers help reduce risk and preserve development value.

Conclusion

Tree preservation ordinances in Florida are not optional—they're a regulated part of land development that requires strategic planning and site-specific design. By evaluating these requirements early in the process, civil engineers help developers navigate constraints, avoid delays, and achieve both environmental and project goals.

FAQs

• Do all cities in Florida have tree preservation ordinances?

  Most do, though the scope and enforcement vary. Cities like Orlando, Tampa, and Miami have some of the strictest policies. Always check local code early.

• Can protected trees be removed with a permit?

  Yes, but typically only with justification such as disease, hazard, or necessary construction. Even then, replacement or mitigation is often required.

• Are tree surveys required before permitting?

  Yes—many jurisdictions require a certified tree survey as part of the site plan submittal.

• How does tree preservation affect stormwater design?

  Tree root zones can restrict underground system placement. Civil engineers may need to adjust pond location or switch to open swales or biofiltration.

• Where can I find official guidance on tree ordinances?

  Check your local municipality’s planning or public works department. For example, Miami-Dade County Tree Protection outlines their requirements.

Looking for Integrated Site Planning Support?

RSP Engineers helps Florida developers balance site yield and environmental compliance. From tree preservation planning to utility layout and stormwater design, our civil and environmental teams deliver coordinated permitting solutions statewide.