Brush Clearance: Plant City vs Tampa
How do brush clearance rules compare between Plant City, FL and Tampa, FL?
Plant City and Tampa have similar restriction levels.
Plant City, FL
Hillsborough County
Plant City property owners must maintain vegetation to prevent fire hazards. Dead brush, overgrown grass, and combustible debris within 30 feet of structures must be cleared, especially during Florida dry season (March-June).
View full Plant City rules →Tampa, FL
Hillsborough County
Tampa requires property owners to keep lots free of overgrown vegetation, dead brush, and accumulated yard waste under City Code Chapter 19 (Lot Clearing). While Florida's humid, subtropical climate makes Tampa less wildfire-prone than inland or western areas, dry spring conditions and hurricane debris create real fire hazards, especially in wildland-urban interface areas near Hillsborough River and conservation lands.
View full Tampa rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Plant City | Tampa |
|---|---|---|
| Clear Zone | 30 feet from structures | - |
| Dry Season | March-June high risk | - |
| Agricultural | FL §163.3162 protected | - |
| Resource | FFS Firewise program | - |
| - | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Plant City FAQ
Who enforces this in Plant City?
Plant City code enforcement at (813) 659-4200 handles complaints.
Who enforces this in Plant City?
Plant City code enforcement at (813) 659-4200 handles complaints.
Tampa FAQ
Does Tampa require a specific defensible-space width around homes?
No. Unlike California or Arizona, Tampa does not mandate a numeric defensible-space buffer. General lot-clearing standards apply under Chapter 19.
Who do I call about an overgrown neighboring lot?
Report it to Tampa Code Enforcement via the city's 311 system or online portal. Inspectors will evaluate and issue notice if warranted.
Compare other topics
See how Plant City and Tampa 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