Tree Removal Permits: Safety Harbor vs St. Petersburg
How do tree removal permits rules compare between Safety Harbor, FL and St. Petersburg, FL?
Safety Harbor and St. Petersburg have similar restriction levels.
Safety Harbor, FL
Pinellas County
Safety Harbor's 2015 Tree Ordinance (Article X of the Land Development Code) requires a permit before removing any protected tree, with $25 residential and $100 non-residential fees plus replacement obligations.
View full Safety Harbor rules →St. Petersburg, FL
Pinellas County
St. Petersburg requires a permit through Urban Forestry to remove protected trees under Section 16.40.060.5, with stricter rules for Grand Trees 30 inches DBH and larger.
View full St. Petersburg rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Safety Harbor | St. Petersburg |
|---|---|---|
| Authority | Article X, Land Development Code | - |
| Adopted | 2015 (amended since) | - |
| Residential fee | $25 per application | - |
| Non-residential fee | $100 per application | - |
| Protected DBH | 4 inches or greater | - |
| Code section | - | Sec. 16.40.060.5 |
| Grand Tree | - | 30+ inch DBH |
| Max penalty | - | Up to $6,855 per tree |
| State exemption | - | FS 163.045 (homestead) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Safety Harbor FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Safety Harbor?
Yes, if the tree meets the protected definition (4-inch DBH or greater, qualifying palm, mangrove, or listed species). Apply through the Building Division before any removal.
Can I remove a hazardous tree without a permit?
No. Even hazardous removals require a permit, but the City Arborist can expedite review. Document the hazard and contact the arborist before any work.
St. Petersburg FAQ
Do I need a permit to cut down a tree in St. Petersburg?
Yes, for any protected tree under Section 16.40.060.5. Homesteaded owners can use the Florida Statute 163.045 exemption only with a certified arborist's documented unacceptable-risk finding.
What happens if I remove a Grand Tree without a permit in St. Pete?
Combined after-the-fact permit fees, payment-in-lieu of replanting, and code fines can reach approximately $6,855 for a single 30-inch Grand Tree on residential property.
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