Why Miami Gardens Has Some of the Strictest Tree Protection in the State

Miami Gardens maintains 108 local ordinances across all categories, and 3 of those deal specifically with tree protection. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Miami Gardens falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Heritage & Protected Trees

Heritage trees designated by Miami-Dade County or Broward County receive enhanced protections. These trees generally have trunk diameters of 24 inches or more and meet historical or ecological significance criteria. Removal of heritage trees is prohibited except under extreme circumstances and requires special permits with extensive mitigation.

Key details: Trunk Diameter: Typically 24+ inches for designation. Removal: Prohibited except extreme circumstances. Fine per Tree: Up to $5,000 + enhanced mitigation. Designation: By county Board of Commissioners. Protection Level: Highest under tree ordinance.

Removing a heritage tree without authorization carries fines up to $5,000 per tree plus mandatory mitigation. Criminal charges may apply for willful destruction.

This is one of the stricter rules in Miami Gardens's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

Tree Removal Permits

Tree removal in Miami Gardens requires a permit from the city's planning department. Miami-Dade County protects all native trees over 3 inches in diameter. Permits must be obtained before any removal or relocation. One-to-one canopy replacement is required for approved removals. Improper pruning is also prohibited.

Key details: Permit Required: Yes — for all protected trees. Protected Size: Native trees 3+ inches DBH. Replacement: 1:1 canopy replacement. Fine per Tree: Up to $5,000 + replanting. Contact: Planning Dept. 305-622-8000 ext. 2628.

Removing a protected tree without a permit results in fines up to $5,000 per tree plus mandatory replanting. Broward County imposes similar penalties in its jurisdiction.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Miami Gardens actively enforces its tree removal permits requirements.

Tree Replacement Requirements

Miami-Dade County requires one-to-one canopy replacement for all permitted tree removals. Replacement trees must meet county specifications for species, size, and planting standards. Failure to complete required replacement planting results in additional fines and enforcement action.

Key details: Replacement Ratio: 1:1 canopy replacement. Species: Native or adaptive per county specs. On-Site Planting: Preferred; in-lieu fee available. Monitoring: County monitors compliance. Fine for Non-Compliance: Additional fines + enforcement.

Failure to complete required tree replacement within the specified period results in additional fines and enforcement action. Payment to the tree trust fund is an alternative where on-site planting is not feasible.

This is one of the stricter rules in Miami Gardens's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

The Bottom Line

Miami Gardens is tougher than many cities when it comes to tree protection. Out of the 3 rules covered here, 3 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Miami Gardens, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

All of the above reflects Miami Gardens's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.