Tree Protection in Jacksonville, FL (2026)
4 verified tree protection rules for Jacksonville, Florida, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Tree Removal Permits
Jacksonville requires tree removal permits for protected trees under Jax Ord. Code Ch. 656, Part 12, Subpart B (Tree Protection) and City Charter Article 25. No person may cut down, remove, damage, or destroy any protected tree without authorization per §656.1205. Permits are issued based on tree protection standards in §656.1203. The Tree Commission (Ch. 94) advises on tree policy. Mitigation through replacement planting or contribution to the Tree Protection Trust Fund is required.
Jacksonville Tree Removal Permits & Protected Trees
Heavy RestrictionsHeritage & Protected Trees
Jacksonville designates hardwood trees with a diameter at breast height (DBH) of 24 inches or greater as 'exceptional specimen trees' under Jax Ord. Code §656.1203. These trees receive the highest level of protection. Removal requires specific authorization and enhanced mitigation. The Tree Commission (Ch. 94) advises on policy for exceptional specimens. City Charter Article 25 provides additional constitutional protections for tree conservation during development.
Jacksonville Heritage & Protected Tree Designations
Heavy RestrictionsTree Replacement Requirements
Jacksonville requires tree replacement or mitigation for any authorized removal of protected trees under Jax Ord. Code Ch. 656, Part 12, Subpart B. If the site cannot accommodate replacement trees, the applicant must contribute to the Tree Protection and Related Expenses Trust Fund. For every two caliper inches of replacement trees otherwise required, the contribution equals the retail value of a planted two-inch caliper nursery-grown shade tree. The Tree Commission oversees mitigation policy.
Jacksonville Tree Replacement & Mitigation Requirements
Heavy RestrictionsProtected Tree Species
Jacksonville Ordinance Code Section 656.1207 designates specimen trees including large live oaks and other native species as protected, requiring extra mitigation and city arborist review for any removal. The Jacksonville Tree Master Plan guides citywide canopy goals.
Specimen Trees Get Special Protection Under Code 656.1207
Heavy RestrictionsLooking for Duval County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Jacksonville city rules.
Tree Protection in Duval County →