Dunedin vs Safety Harbor
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between Dunedin, FL and Safety Harbor, FL?
Dunedin and Safety Harbor have similar restriction levels.
Dunedin, FL
Pinellas County
Dunedin requires a $25 tree removal permit for any protected tree, defined as a shade tree 4 inches DBH or larger. Removal triggers replacement requirements of one or two trees depending on size.
View full Dunedin rules →Safety Harbor, FL
Pinellas County
Removing a protected tree in Safety Harbor requires a permit. Any shade tree 4 inch DBH or larger, sabal palms with 5 ft trunks, mangroves, and listed species are protected. Fees are $25 residential and $100 other parcels.
View full Safety Harbor rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Dunedin | Safety Harbor |
|---|---|---|
| Permit fee | $25 per application | - |
| Protected size | 4 inches DBH shade trees | - |
| Reviewing body | Parks Division arborist | - |
| Replacement small | 1 tree under 19 inches | - |
| Replacement large | 2 trees 19 inches plus | - |
| Protected DBH | - | 4 inches or greater |
| Residential fee | - | $25 |
| Other parcels fee | - | $100 |
| Mangroves | - | Always protected |
| Code | - | LDC 153.07 and 153.10 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Dunedin FAQ
Which trees are protected in Dunedin?
Any shade tree 4 inches or larger DBH and any understory tree 8 inches or larger DBH is protected. All Grand Trees of 30 inches DBH or more receive additional protection.
What if a tree is dead or dangerous?
Dead, hazardous, or storm-damaged trees still require a permit, but the city arborist typically waives the fee and expedites approval after inspection. Document the condition before any work.
Safety Harbor FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in my yard?
Yes, if the tree is a protected shade tree of 4-inch DBH or larger, a sabal palm with five feet of trunk, a mangrove, or on the Replacement List. Trees under 4 inches generally do not require permits.
What if I remove a tree without permission?
Illegal removal is a code violation that can require replacement trees of equivalent caliper, plus monetary penalties. Grand trees carry stiffer mitigation. The case is heard by the Code Enforcement Special Magistrate.
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