Clearwater vs Tarpon Springs
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between Clearwater, FL and Tarpon Springs, FL?
Clearwater and Tarpon Springs have similar restriction levels.
Clearwater, FL
Pinellas County
Clearwater requires a removal permit for any protected tree four inches DBH or greater and for palms with ten-foot clear straight trunks, with replacement plantings mandatory within 90 days and removal of specimen or historic trees prohibited.
View full Clearwater rules →Tarpon Springs, FL
Pinellas County
Tarpon Springs requires a tree removal permit before removing protected trees on private property under Appendix A, Article IX, with replacement or mitigation typically required when removal is approved.
View full Tarpon Springs rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Clearwater | Tarpon Springs |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| Permit required | - | Yes for protected trees |
| Code section | - | Appendix A, Article IX |
| Application | - | Tree Removal Permit form |
| Dangerous trees | - | Preempted by FS 163.045 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Clearwater FAQ
How do I get a tree removal permit in Clearwater?
Submit a written application with required fee and any necessary site plan or arborist inventory to the Community Development Coordinator under CDC Section 4-1202.
Can I remove a dead or hazardous tree without a permit?
Hazardous trees still typically require documentation from an ISA-certified arborist or licensed landscape architect confirming the danger before removal proceeds.
Tarpon Springs FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in my yard?
Yes, removing a protected tree on private property requires a Tarpon Springs tree removal permit and may require mitigation plantings.
What if the tree is dead or dangerous?
Florida Statute 163.045 prohibits the city from requiring a permit when a certified arborist or landscape architect documents that the tree is dangerous.
What is a No Tree Removal Certificate?
It is a form submitted with development permits when no protected trees exist on the site or none will be removed.
Compare other topics
See how Clearwater and Tarpon Springs compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool