Heritage & Protected Trees: Miami vs North Miami
How do heritage & protected trees rules compare between Miami, FL and North Miami, FL?
Miami and North Miami have similar restriction levels.
Miami, FL
Miami-Dade County
Miami protects all trees on private property 4+ inch DBH under City Code Chapter 17 and overlays Miami-Dade County Specimen Tree rules for trees 18+ inch DBH or designated species (live oak, mahogany, gumbo limbo). Removal requires a tree-removal permit, replacement plantings, and county review for Specimen Trees.
View full Miami rules →North Miami, FL
Miami-Dade County
North Miami provides enhanced protection for heritage and specimen trees, including large-diameter trees, tropical hardwoods, and historically significant specimens. Removal of heritage trees requires strong justification and significantly increased replacement ratios. Many native South Florida species receive heightened protection.
View full North Miami rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Miami | North Miami |
|---|---|---|
| City DBH threshold | 4-inch DBH triggers permit | - |
| County Specimen Tree | 18-inch DBH or designated species | - |
| Protected species | Live oak, mahogany, gumbo limbo, native palms | - |
| Replacement | 2-inch caliper minimum, ratio by canopy lost | - |
| In-lieu fee | Tree Trust Fund payment alternative | - |
| Heritage Threshold | - | ~18-24 inches trunk diameter |
| Protected Species | - | Live oak, gumbo limbo, mahogany |
| Replacement Ratio | - | Increased for heritage trees |
| Removal Justification | - | Strong justification required |
| Planning Dept | - | (305) 895-9825 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Miami FAQ
Can I cut a tree on my own Miami lot?
Not if it has a 4-inch DBH or larger. Miami requires a tree-removal permit for nearly every mature tree, and 18-inch DBH (or native species) trees also need Miami-Dade County Specimen Tree review.
Is a live oak always protected?
Yes. Live Oak (Quercus virginiana) is a designated Specimen species under Miami-Dade Code §24-49 at any size and cannot be removed without both city and county approval and substantial mitigation.
What about palms?
Palms with 8 feet of clear trunk or more require a permit. Several native palms (royal, sabal, paurotis) are Specimen species regardless of height.
North Miami FAQ
What qualifies as a heritage tree in North Miami?
Generally trees with trunk diameters exceeding 18-24 inches DBH or trees designated as historically or ecologically significant. Native tropical hardwoods like live oak, gumbo limbo, and mahogany receive heightened protection.
Can I ever remove a heritage tree?
Only with strong justification such as imminent danger or disease with no treatment option. All alternatives must be explored first. Approved removals require significantly increased replacement plantings. Contact the Planning Department at (305) 895-9825.
What are the penalties for removing a heritage tree without permission?
Fines are based on the tree's appraised value and can reach $10,000 or more for large mature specimens. Increased replacement ratios apply, and the city may require bonds to ensure new trees survive. Criminal charges may apply for willful destruction.
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