Do You Need a Permit to Remove a Tree in Orlando, FL?

One of the most common questions we get from homeowners in Orlando and throughout Central Florida is: "Do I need a permit to remove a tree from my own property?"

The answer isn't always simple — it depends on where you live, what kind of tree it is, and how big it is. This guide breaks it down clearly so you know what to expect before any work begins.

Florida Tree Permit Overview

Florida's tree regulations operate at the local level — the state sets some baseline rules, but individual cities and counties have their own tree ordinances that may be more restrictive. This means the rules in Orlando may differ from those in a neighboring community.

In general, Florida municipalities protect trees for several reasons: environmental health, stormwater management, property values, urban heat reduction, and wildlife habitat. Tree ordinances typically protect trees above a certain size (measured in diameter at breast height, or DBH) and certain species altogether.

When a Tree Removal Permit Is Required

Across most Central Florida municipalities, you'll typically need a permit when:

• The tree trunk exceeds a certain diameter — often 4", 6", or 12" DBH depending on the jurisdiction
• The tree is on a commercially zoned property (commercial properties typically have stricter rules than residential)
• The tree is a protected species (see below)
• The removal is associated with a development or construction project
• The property is in a historic district or special overlay zone
• The tree is within a certain distance of a wetland, waterway, or protected habitat

For residential properties, many Florida municipalities allow homeowners to remove most trees without a permit, with notable exceptions for protected species and trees above a size threshold. But the only way to be certain for your specific property is to check with your local building or planning department — or simply ask us when we come out for your estimate.

Florida's Protected Tree Species

Florida state law provides baseline protection for several species, regardless of municipality. The most commonly protected species in Central Florida include:

• Live Oak (Quercus virginiana) — Protected in virtually all Central Florida municipalities; often requires replacement plantings
• Laurel Oak (Quercus laurifolia) — Protected in many jurisdictions despite being prone to decay
• Sabal Palm (Sabal palmetto) — Florida's state tree; protected in many areas when over a certain height
• Southern Magnolia — Protected in some municipalities above a DBH threshold
• Bald Cypress — Protected, particularly near wetlands and waterways
• Longleaf Pine — Protected as a threatened species in many Florida counties

Notably, many municipalities exempt the following from permit requirements: exotic invasive species (like Australian pine, Brazilian pepper), dead or dying trees that pose an imminent hazard, and most palm species (other than sabal palm).

Penalties for Removing a Tree Without a Required Permit

Don't assume you can ask forgiveness instead of permission — the penalties for unpermitted tree removal in Florida can be significant:

• Fines: $500 to $5,000+ per tree, depending on the municipality and tree value
• Replacement requirements: Many ordinances require the property owner to plant replacement trees — sometimes at a 2:1 or 3:1 ratio (e.g., plant three trees for every one removed without a permit)
• Stop-work orders: If connected to a construction project, work may be halted until the violation is remediated
• Code enforcement liens: Unpaid fines can become liens on your property

The financial and legal headache is simply not worth it. When in doubt, check first.

How to Apply for a Tree Removal Permit in Orlando

The process varies by municipality, but typically involves:

1. Contact your local building department or planning/zoning office to determine if a permit is required for your specific tree
2. Complete an application — usually requires the tree's species, diameter (DBH), and location on the property
3. Pay the permit fee (typically $25–$150 for residential permits)
4. In some cases, a city arborist or inspector may need to visit the property before approval
5. Once approved, you'll receive a permit number — your tree contractor will need this before beginning work

Many permit applications can now be submitted online through your municipality's portal. Approval typically takes 5–15 business days for routine applications.

Common Exceptions: When a Permit Is Usually NOT Required

• Imminent hazard: Most municipalities allow emergency removal of trees that pose an immediate threat to life or property, with documentation submitted after the fact
• Dead trees: Many jurisdictions exempt trees that are confirmed dead from permit requirements (though you may need to document the tree's condition)
• Invasive exotic species: Brazilian pepper, Australian pine, Melaleuca, and similar invasives are typically exempt or even encouraged for removal
• Small-diameter trees: Trees below the threshold diameter (varies by city) typically don't require a permit
• Agriculture-zoned property: Different rules apply to agricultural land

As part of our service, we help Orlando homeowners understand local permit requirements for their specific situation. Call us at 863-356-7534 — when we come out for your free estimate, we'll let you know whether a permit is needed and walk you through the process.