How Pembroke Pines Handles Tree Protection: A Practical Guide

Pembroke Pines maintains 116 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 Pembroke Pines falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Heritage & Protected Trees

Pembroke Pines protects trees through Sections 155.672–155.675 of the Land Development Code. No tree with a 4-inch or greater trunk diameter may be removed without a permit. The city publishes a Preferred Tree Planting List. Invasive species (FLEPPC Category I) removal has waived permit fees. Permits are issued by the Planning, Zoning & Landscaping Department at 954-392-2100.

Key details: Permit Threshold: 4-inch+ trunk diameter. Replacement: Within 30 days required. Invasive Species: Fee waived for FLEPPC Cat. I. Governing Code: LDC §155.672–155.675. Contact: 954-392-2100.

Removing trees without permits violates §155.674. Replacement within 30 days is mandatory. Fines under FL §162.

Compared to other cities, Pembroke Pines takes a harder line on heritage & protected trees. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

Tree Removal Permits

Pembroke Pines requires a tree removal or relocation permit under Section 155.674 for any tree with a 4-inch or greater trunk diameter. Applications go through the Planning, Zoning & Landscaping Department. One of several qualifying conditions must be demonstrated. Replacement trees must be installed within 30 days. The permit application and instructions are available on the city's website.

Key details: Permit Required: 4-inch+ trunk diameter. Application: Planning & Zoning Dept.. Replacement: Within 30 days. Invasive Fee Waiver: FLEPPC Category I. Contact: landscape@ppines.com.

Removing a tree without a permit violates §155.674. Penalties include fines, mandatory replacement, and potential liens.

Tree Replacement Requirements

Pembroke Pines requires replacement trees within 30 days of permitted removal under the Land Development Code. The city maintains a Preferred Tree Planting List identifying recommended species. Invasive species removal has waived permit fees but replacement is still required. The Planning, Zoning & Landscaping Department reviews replacement plans. Improper tree maintenance is addressed in Section 155.672.

Key details: Replacement Deadline: 30 calendar days. Species List: Preferred Tree Planting List. Improper Maintenance: §155.672 prohibits topping. Invasive Removal: Fee waived, replacement still needed. Contact: 954-392-2100.

Failure to plant replacement trees within 30 days violates the permit conditions. Additional fines may apply.

The Bottom Line

Pembroke Pines's tree protection rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Pembroke Pines is broadly strict or permissive.

This guide is based on Pembroke Pines's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.