Tree Removal Permits: Miami Beach vs Miami Gardens
How do tree removal permits rules compare between Miami Beach, FL and Miami Gardens, FL?
Miami Beach and Miami Gardens have similar restriction levels.
Miami Beach, FL
Miami-Dade County
Miami Beach requires permits for removing any tree that normally matures to 20 feet or more under Chapter 126 (Landscape Ordinance). No person may cut down, destroy, or effectively damage a protected tree without following the city's permit procedures. The Environment and Sustainability Department oversees tree protection.
View full Miami Beach rules →Miami Gardens, FL
Miami-Dade County
Tree removal in Miami Gardens requires a permit from the city's planning department. Miami-Dade County protects all native trees over 3 inches in diameter. Permits must be obtained before any removal or relocation. One-to-one canopy replacement is required for approved removals. Improper pruning is also prohibited.
View full Miami Gardens rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Miami Beach | Miami Gardens |
|---|---|---|
| Protected Trees | Any species maturing to 20+ feet | - |
| Permit Required | Yes — through Environment Dept | Yes — for all protected trees |
| Code Chapter | Chapter 126, Section 126-5 | - |
| Replacement Required | Equivalent value trees | - |
| Urban Forestry | urbanforestry@miamibeachfl.gov | - |
| Protected Size | - | Native trees 3+ inches DBH |
| Replacement | - | 1:1 canopy replacement |
| Fine per Tree | - | Up to $5,000 + replanting |
| Contact | - | Planning Dept. 305-622-8000 ext. 2628 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Miami Beach FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Miami Beach?
Yes. Any tree that normally matures to 20 feet or taller requires a removal permit under Chapter 126. Contact the Environment and Sustainability Department or email urbanforestry@miamibeachfl.gov.
Can I remove a healthy tree on my property?
Generally no. Healthy protected trees cannot be removed without providing replacement trees of equivalent value. The city arborist evaluates each application based on tree condition and removal justification.
What about emergency tree removal after a hurricane?
Hazardous trees posing immediate danger may be removed in emergencies, but post-removal permitting is still required. Document the tree's condition with photos before removal.
Miami Gardens FAQ
When do I need a tree removal permit?
A permit is required for removing any native tree with a trunk diameter of 3 inches or more measured at breast height (4.5 feet above ground).
How do I apply for a tree removal permit?
Contact the city's planning department at 305-622-8000 ext. 2628 for specific application procedures and requirements.
Are any trees exempt from the permit requirement?
Nuisance trees, invasive species, and dead/diseased/hazardous trees may qualify for expedited removal or exemption from the standard permit process.
Compare other topics
See how Miami Beach and Miami Gardens compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool