Pinellas Park vs Seminole
How do heritage & protected trees rules compare between Pinellas Park, FL and Seminole, FL?
Pinellas Park and Seminole have similar restriction levels.
Pinellas Park, FL
Pinellas County
Pinellas Park gives heightened protection to large 'grand' or 'specimen' trees, requiring extra review before removal. Grand trees are typically those 30 inches DBH or larger of protected species under Article 4 of the LDC.
View full Pinellas Park rules →Seminole, FL
Pinellas County
Seminole gives heightened protection to specimen and historic trees, typically large native oaks and other significant species, requiring enhanced review and substantial mitigation before any removal.
View full Seminole rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Pinellas Park | Seminole |
|---|---|---|
| Grand tree threshold | 30 inches DBH | - |
| Excluded species | Laurel oaks excluded | - |
| Code reference | LDC Article 4 | - |
| Replacement ratio | Inch-for-inch or higher | Higher than standard |
| Approval authority | Community Development Dept. | - |
| Specimen DBH | - | Often 24-36 inches |
| Hardship required | - | For removal approval |
| Standard | - | ANSI A300 protection |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Pinellas Park FAQ
What qualifies as a grand or heritage tree in Pinellas Park?
Trees 30 inches or larger DBH of protected species are typically classified as grand trees, receiving heightened protection consistent with Pinellas County's grand tree standard.
Can I remove a grand tree if it threatens my house?
Yes, but you must apply for a removal permit with arborist documentation showing the tree is hazardous or causing structural damage. Replacement is generally required.
What replacement is required for a grand tree?
Replacement is typically calculated on an inch-for-inch or greater basis using species from Pinellas Park's approved list, or a payment to the tree mitigation fund.
Seminole FAQ
What is a specimen tree in Seminole, FL?
A specimen tree is a healthy, mature tree, typically a native species like live oak, exceeding a defined trunk diameter set in Seminole's land development code, granting it enhanced protection from removal.
Can I cut a heritage oak in my Seminole yard?
Removal of a specimen oak is rarely approved. You must show hardship, no design alternative, and provide enhanced replacement plantings or in-lieu fees. Most applications require an arborist report.
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