Dunedin vs St. Petersburg
How do tree trimming rules compare between Dunedin, FL and St. Petersburg, FL?
Dunedin has fewer restrictions than St. Petersburg.
Dunedin, FL
Pinellas County
Dunedin allows routine maintenance trimming of most protected trees without a permit, but Grand Trees and any pruning that removes over 25 percent of canopy require permits and an Approved Arborist.
View full Dunedin rules →St. Petersburg, FL
Pinellas County
St. Petersburg regulates pruning of protected trees under Section 16.40.060 of the Land Development Regulations, requiring ISA-standard practices and arborist oversight on Grand and protected trees.
View full St. Petersburg rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Dunedin | St. Petersburg |
|---|---|---|
| Permit threshold | Over 25% canopy removal | - |
| Grand Tree size | 30 inches DBH and above | - |
| Grand Tree work | Requires Approved Arborist | - |
| Topping | Prohibited without permit | - |
| Code section | Chapter 105, Division 3 | Sec. 16.40.060 |
| Protected size | - | 4 inches DBH or larger |
| Grand Tree | - | 24 inches DBH protected species |
| Standard | - | ANSI A300 / ISA BMP |
| Canopy limit | - | 25 percent per year |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Dunedin FAQ
Do I need a permit to trim my tree in Dunedin?
Routine maintenance trimming is exempt. You need a permit if pruning removes over 25 percent of the canopy, involves topping, or affects a Grand Tree of 30 inches DBH or larger.
What is a Grand Tree in Dunedin?
A Grand Tree is any tree measuring 30 inches or more in diameter at breast height, except Laurel Oaks. Pruning Grand Trees requires an Approved Arborist regardless of pruning amount.
St. Petersburg FAQ
Can I top a tree in St. Petersburg?
No. Topping and lion-tailing are prohibited under Section 16.40.060 because they damage tree health. Hire an ISA-certified arborist for crown reduction following ANSI A300 standards.
Do I need a permit to trim my own tree in St. Pete?
Light maintenance pruning is allowed without a permit, but removing over 25 percent of canopy or pruning Grand Trees typically requires city review and an ISA-certified arborist.
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