Tree Removal Permit Application: What You Need Before Removing a Tree
Planning to remove a tree from residential or commercial property? Before scheduling removal, determine whether your city or county requires a tree removal permit application, inspection, photographs, site information or replacement trees.
Do I Need a Tree Removal Permit in Florida?
It depends on the property, tree and local jurisdiction. Florida cities and counties may regulate tree removal, but state law provides an important exception for certain dangerous trees on qualifying single-family residential property when the owner has proper documentation from an ISA-certified arborist or Florida-licensed landscape architect.
How to Complete a Tree Removal Permit Application
Confirm the Correct Jurisdiction
Determine whether the property is regulated by a city or unincorporated county. Tree-removal requirements can differ even between neighboring South Florida municipalities.
Identify the Tree
Record the number of trees, species, approximate size and exact location on the property. Some jurisdictions may request a site plan or tree survey.
Take Clear Photographs
Provide photos showing the entire tree, trunk, surrounding structures and any visible damage or condition supporting the removal request.
Explain Why Removal Is Needed
Reasons may include disease, structural risk, construction conflicts, property damage or another condition recognized by the applicable local code.
Submit and Wait for Approval
Do not remove a regulated tree simply because an application has been submitted. Wait for the required municipal approval unless a valid Florida statutory exemption applies.
Tree Removal Permit Application Checklist
- Property address
- Property owner and applicant information
- Number and species of trees
- Tree locations
- Photographs
- Reason for removal
- Site plan or tree survey if required
- Arborist documentation when applicable
- Building permit number if connected to construction
Tree Removal Permits in Hollywood, Florida
The City of Hollywood requires its tree removal or relocation application to identify the trees or palms involved, their species and location, the reason for removal, property information and photographs.
Depending on the application, the City may inspect the tree and impose replacement or mitigation requirements. Applicants can review the official City of Hollywood Tree Removal/Relocation Permit Application .
Florida Dangerous Tree Exception
Under Florida Statute 163.045, a local government may not require a tree-removal permit, application, fee or mitigation for a qualifying tree on certain residential property when an ISA-certified arborist or Florida-licensed landscape architect documents that the tree presents an unacceptable risk and removal is the only practical way to reduce that risk below moderate.
This state provision does not override Florida's separate mangrove-protection requirements.
Need Help With the Permit Process?
A tree-removal application may also connect to a larger construction, demolition, addition, driveway, pool or development permit. 123 Permit Solutions can help coordinate municipal applications and permit documentation through our Florida permit expediting services .
Property owners and contractors in Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, Davie, Plantation, Pembroke Pines and surrounding communities can also explore our Broward County permit services .
Tree Removal Permit FAQ
Can I remove a tree before the permit is approved?
Generally, do not remove a regulated tree until the jurisdiction has approved the application unless a valid legal exemption applies.
Do I need an arborist for a tree removal permit?
Not for every application. However, professional arborist documentation may be required or beneficial for hazardous, protected or disputed tree removals.
Will I have to plant a replacement tree?
Possibly. Local ordinances may require mitigation or replacement planting depending on the tree and reason for removal. Florida law provides an exception for qualifying removals under Section 163.045.
Tree-removal requirements vary by municipality, property type, tree species and circumstances. Always verify current requirements with the applicable local authority before removing a tree.
Need Help With a Tree Removal Permit Application?
Let 123 Permit Solutions help identify the jurisdiction, required paperwork and permitting path for your property.
Call (754) 364-0718 Talk to a Permit Specialist