Tree Protection in Cape Coral, FL (2026)
2 verified tree protection rules for Cape Coral, Florida, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Heritage & Protected Trees
Cape Coral defines a Heritage Tree as any Florida native canopy tree with a 20-inch caliper DBH or larger. On any development site other than a single-family or duplex lot, removing or damaging a heritage tree during or after construction triggers a mandatory replacement duty under the city's landscaping code.
Cape Coral Heritage Tree Protection Rules
Some RestrictionsCape Coral Code of Ordinances §§ 11.2, 5.5.8
Heritage Tree, is a Florida native canopy tree with a 20-inch caliper DBH or larger. ... Developers are encouraged to preserve existing heritage trees. For any site other than a single-family or duplex site, if during development or any time throughout the life of the development, regardless of change in ownership or use(s), any heritage tree is removed or damaged, it shall be replaced with a F...
Parkway Planting
Planting a tree or shrub in the parkway strip between the sidewalk and the street in Cape Coral requires a city registration certificate, not a building permit. Utility clearances, roadway setbacks, and a Sunshine 811 locate call are all mandatory before the shovel goes in.
Cape Coral Right-of-Way Tree Planting Rules
Some RestrictionsCape Coral Code of Ordinances § 5.5.18
A.No permit required- Registration required. It shall be unlawful to install any trees or shrubs in the city-owned lateral right-of-way without first obtaining a registration certificate from the city. ... 3.No canopy tree shall be planted within 10 feet of existing or proposed drainage inlet or potable water, irrigation and sanitary sewer force mains.4.No palm tree with a mature diameter of 8 ...
Looking for Lee County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Cape Coral city rules.
Tree Protection in Lee County →