Tree Removal & Heritage Trees: Bay Hill vs Ocoee
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between Bay Hill, FL and Ocoee, FL?
Bay Hill has fewer restrictions than Ocoee.
Bay Hill, FL
Orange County
Under FL §163.045, Orange County cannot require permits to remove residential trees when a certified arborist documents a danger. Specimen tree replacement may still apply for non-danger removals in some zones.
View full Bay Hill rules →Ocoee, FL
Orange County
Ocoee requires a tree removal permit for any protected tree 8 inches DBH or larger on private property. Replacement or mitigation fees apply unless the tree qualifies as dangerous under FL §163.045, which preempts local permits when an ISA-certified arborist documents the risk.
View full Ocoee rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Bay Hill | Ocoee |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | No permit with arborist letter | - |
| State Law | FL §163.045 | - |
| Commercial | County §24 applies | - |
| Invasives | Encouraged removal | - |
| Protected Size | - | 8-inch DBH |
| Permit | - | Required from Planning |
| Mitigation | - | Inch-for-inch or fee |
| State Preemption | - | FL §163.045 danger trees |
| Heritage Trees | - | Extra protection |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Bay Hill FAQ
Do I need a permit to cut down a tree in Orange County?
Tree removal permit required for most tree removals in unincorporated Orange County under §15-279. Application must include site plan, removal/replacement calculation, and species/size schedule. Fees: $247.98 base (Zoning Arborist) + $131 inspection for residential.
What are the tree removal rules in Orange County?
Permit Required: Yes — most removals. Code Section: §15-279 (Ch. 15, Art. VIII). Base Fee: $247.98 (Zoning Arborist). Inspection Fee: $131 (residential).
Ocoee FAQ
Do I need a permit to cut down a tree in Ocoee?
Yes for protected trees 8 inches DBH or larger, unless an ISA-certified arborist documents it as dangerous under FL §163.045.
Who enforces this in Ocoee?
Ocoee code enforcement at (407) 905-3100 handles complaints.
Compare other topics
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