Tree Removal Permits in Florida: Municipal Requirements
Tree removal is a necessary step in many land development projects, but in Florida, it’s also one of the most closely regulated. Cities and counties enforce detailed ordinances to protect tree canopies, preserve native species, and ensure that urban development remains sustainable.
Before removing or relocating trees on a site, developers must understand which municipal tree removal permits apply—and how to stay compliant. Working with a qualified civil engineering company in Florida helps avoid costly penalties and project delays.
Why Tree Removal Permits Matter
Tree preservation plays a major role in Florida’s environmental and stormwater management strategy. Many municipalities link tree protection directly to Environmental Resource Permits (ERPs) and stormwater plans.
Unpermitted removal can halt site work, trigger fines, or even jeopardize ERP approvals. By coordinating early with local planning and county engineers, developers can integrate tree protection measures into their grading and drainage plans from the start.
For more on how county reviews affect development, see our related post: The Role of County Engineers in Florida Land Development
Key Requirements for Tree Removal Permits in Florida
| Task | Details |
|---|---|
| Site Tree Survey | Prepare a certified tree inventory identifying size, species, and condition for all existing trees on site. |
| Municipal Permit Application | Submit tree removal plans and justification to the local Planning or Environmental Resources Department. |
| Tree Replacement Plan | Provide mitigation details such as replanting, in-lieu fees, or preservation easements per city code. |
| Environmental Review | Coordinate with county and FDEP requirements when removal affects wetlands or protected habitats. (Florida Department of Environmental Protection) |
| Final Inspection | Municipal staff verify compliance before issuing final site clearance or certificate of completion. |
Working With Local Agencies
Each municipality enforces its own tree protection ordinance. For example:
Miami-Dade County requires a Tree Removal Permit under Chapter 24, regulated by the Department of Regulatory and Economic Resources (RER).
Broward County reviews removals under its Environmental Protection and Growth Management Department (EPGMD).
A proactive planning engineer will coordinate with these agencies early to align tree removal plans with grading, stormwater, and utility layouts.
To understand how these requirements intersect with broader site permitting, read: Environmental Resource Permits (ERP) in Florida: A Developer’s Guide.
Common Challenges
Tree removal compliance often becomes complicated when:
Projects span multiple jurisdictions with different codes.
Tree surveys are outdated or incomplete.
Replacement ratios are not met due to site constraints.
By involving a land development consultant from the start, developers can anticipate local code variations and integrate landscape mitigation into their civil site plans.
Conclusion
Tree removal in Florida is more than a landscaping task—it’s a regulated process tied to environmental and land development compliance. Understanding municipal requirements early helps developers protect resources, avoid fines, and accelerate approval timelines.
FAQs
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Yes, most cities and counties require a permit before removing trees above a certain size or species type.
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Some exemptions apply for dead, diseased, or dangerous trees—but documentation from a certified arborist is often required.
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No. Premature removal can violate ERP or local stormwater regulations. Always consult your civil engineer near me before clearing.
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Yes, when tree removal impacts wetlands or protected habitats, coordination with the FDEP and Water Management Districts is required.
Partnering With Florida Municipalities for Development Success
At RSP Engineers, we integrate tree protection, stormwater design, and land development permitting into one coordinated process. Our experience with Florida municipalities ensures that your site plans meet every local requirement—streamlining approvals and protecting your project timeline.
