Pinellas Park vs Tarpon Springs
How do heritage & protected trees rules compare between Pinellas Park, FL and Tarpon Springs, FL?
Pinellas Park and Tarpon Springs 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 →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 | Pinellas Park | Tarpon Springs |
|---|---|---|
| Grand tree threshold | 30 inches DBH | - |
| Excluded species | Laurel oaks excluded | - |
| Code reference | LDC Article 4 | Article IX, Section 133 |
| Replacement ratio | Inch-for-inch or higher | - |
| Approval authority | Community Development Dept. | - |
| Protected always | - | Mangroves, Sabal & Cabbage Palms |
| Threshold | - | 4-inch DBH minimum |
| Mangrove law | - | FL state mangrove act applies |
| Permit standard | - | Dead, diseased, hazardous |
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.
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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