Dunedin vs Tarpon Springs
How do heritage & protected trees rules compare between Dunedin, FL and Tarpon Springs, FL?
Dunedin and Tarpon Springs have similar restriction levels.
Dunedin, FL
Pinellas County
Dunedin Code Section 105.35.5 designates 'Grand Trees' as the city's heritage trees, requiring permits and supervision by an Approved Arborist for canopy or root pruning, with strict removal limits.
View full Dunedin rules →Tarpon Springs, FL
Pinellas County
Article IX of the Tarpon Springs Land Development Code grants special status to native and signature trees. Mangroves, Sabal Palms, and Cabbage Palms are protected at any size, and large specimen trees face strict review before removal.
View full Tarpon Springs rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Dunedin | Tarpon Springs |
|---|---|---|
| Code section | Sec. 105.35.5 | - |
| Pruning supervisor | Approved Arborist required | - |
| Permit required | Yes, even for routine work | - |
| Removal standard | Hazard or unavoidable conflict | - |
| Designation | Largest specimens by species | - |
| Protected always | - | Mangroves, Sabal & Cabbage Palms |
| Code reference | - | Article IX, Section 133 |
| Threshold | - | 4-inch DBH minimum |
| Mangrove law | - | FL state mangrove act applies |
| Permit standard | - | Dead, diseased, hazardous |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Dunedin FAQ
What qualifies as a Grand Tree in Dunedin?
Grand Trees are exceptionally large or significant specimens designated under Section 105.35.5 based on species-specific size criteria measured at diameter breast height (DBH).
Can I prune my own Grand Tree?
No. Canopy and root pruning on Grand Trees must be performed by or supervised by an Approved Arborist, with a permit obtained from Dunedin Planning.
Tarpon Springs FAQ
Does Tarpon Springs have a heritage tree designation?
Not by name, but Article IX gives blanket protection to mangroves, Sabal Palms, and Cabbage Palms, and elevates review for any large specimen tree at 4-inch DBH or larger.
Can I remove a large oak that drops branches?
Only with a permit. Submit an application with arborist documentation showing the oak is hazardous, dead, or diseased; otherwise a removal will be denied or require enhanced replacement.
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