Tree Removal & Heritage Trees: Largo vs St. Petersburg
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between Largo, FL and St. Petersburg, FL?
Largo and St. Petersburg have similar restriction levels.
Largo, FL
Pinellas County
Largo requires a tree removal permit for any tree four inches or greater in diameter and palms over 4.5 feet tall, with the city evaluating the tree's condition and replacement obligations under Chapter 10 of the Comprehensive Development Code.
View full Largo rules →St. Petersburg, FL
Pinellas County
St. Petersburg requires a permit to remove protected trees under Section 16.40.060, with penalties up to $6,855 for unauthorized removal of a Grand Tree on residential property.
View full St. Petersburg rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Largo | St. Petersburg |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| Code section | - | Sec. 16.40.060 |
| Protected size | - | 4 inches DBH |
| Exemption | - | FS 163.045 with arborist letter |
| Grand Tree fine | - | Up to $6,855 |
| Mitigation | - | Replant or Tree Trust Fund |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Largo FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in my Largo yard?
Yes, if the tree is at least four inches in diameter or a palm taller than 4.5 feet, you must apply for a tree removal permit before cutting.
Is there a fee for the tree removal permit?
Permits for dead, diseased, or invasive trees are free. Other removal permits may carry a fee under the city's permit fee schedule.
Will I have to replace the tree?
Replacement may be required if your property does not meet Chapter 10's minimum tree standards. Dead and invasive removals are typically exempt.
St. Petersburg FAQ
Can I remove a tree under Florida's homeowner law in St. Pete?
Only if a Florida-licensed landscape architect or ISA-certified arborist documents in writing that the tree presents an unacceptable risk under ANSI BMP standards before removal.
What happens if I remove a tree without a St. Petersburg permit?
Urban Forestry assesses an after-the-fact permit fee, replacement requirements, and fines based on tree size. A Grand Tree removal can total nearly $7,000 in charges.
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