Tree Removal & Heritage Trees: Doral vs Homestead
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between Doral, FL and Homestead, FL?
Homestead has fewer restrictions than Doral.
Doral, FL
Miami-Dade County
Doral has strict tree protection regulations under its Land Development Code. Removal of protected trees requires a permit and mitigation through replacement planting or payment into the city's tree trust fund. Specimen trees and trees above certain caliper sizes receive enhanced protection.
View full Doral rules →Homestead, FL
Miami-Dade County
Tree removal in Homestead is regulated under Miami-Dade County Code Section 24-49. Protected native species like live oak, mahogany, gumbo limbo, and royal palm require permits for removal. Dead, hazardous, or invasive species (Australian pine, Brazilian pepper, melaleuca) can be removed without permits. Mitigation through replanting or tree fund contribution may be required.
View full Homestead rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Doral | Homestead |
|---|---|---|
| Protected Size | 4 inches DBH and above | - |
| Permit Required | Yes, for all protected trees | Yes, for protected species 4"+ DBH |
| Mitigation | Replacement planting or tree trust fund | - |
| Specimen Trees | Enhanced protection, Council approval may be needed | - |
| Code Compliance | (305) 593-6740 | - |
| Protected Species | - | Live oak, mahogany, gumbo limbo, royal palm |
| County Code | - | Miami-Dade Section 24-49 |
| Exempt Trees | - | Dead, invasive, fruit trees |
| Contact | - | (305) 224-4800 Code Compliance |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Doral FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Doral?
Yes, if the tree has a trunk diameter of 4 inches or more at chest height (DBH). Apply for a tree removal permit through the Planning and Zoning Department. Specimen trees may require City Council approval.
What happens if I remove a tree without a permit in Doral?
Unauthorized tree removal carries significant fines and requires mitigation at enhanced replacement ratios. Penalties may include payment into the city's tree trust fund and planting of replacement trees at a greater-than-1:1 ratio.
Can I trim trees in the right-of-way in Doral?
No. Trees in the public right-of-way are managed by the city. Residents cannot remove or significantly prune right-of-way trees without authorization. Contact the city's Public Works Department for right-of-way tree maintenance requests.
Homestead FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Homestead?
Yes, for protected native species with trunks 4 inches or more at breast height. Dead, hazardous, invasive, and fruit trees are generally exempt.
Which trees are invasive and can be removed freely?
Australian pine, Brazilian pepper, and melaleuca are invasive species that can be removed without permits. They are targeted for removal to protect native ecosystems.
What is required if I remove a protected tree?
Mitigation is typically required, either replanting replacement trees at a 2:1 ratio or contributing to the county's tree trust fund. Check with the county for specific requirements.
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