Seminole vs St. Petersburg
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between Seminole, FL and St. Petersburg, FL?
Seminole and St. Petersburg have similar restriction levels.
Seminole, FL
Pinellas County
Seminole, FL requires a tree removal permit under Chapter 62, Article II for protected trees on private property, with mitigation through replacement plantings. Florida HB 1159 may exempt removals of dangerous trees certified by an arborist.
View full Seminole rules →St. Petersburg, FL
Pinellas County
St. Petersburg requires a permit to remove protected trees under Section 16.40.060, with penalties up to $6,855 for unauthorized removal of a Grand Tree on residential property.
View full St. Petersburg rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Seminole | St. Petersburg |
|---|---|---|
| Code section | Sec. 62-40 et seq. | Sec. 16.40.060 |
| Protected size | 4 inches DBH or greater | 4 inches DBH |
| Mitigation | Replacement plantings required | Replant or Tree Trust Fund |
| HB 1159 exemption | Arborist risk letter | - |
| Unpermitted fine | Up to $500 per tree | - |
| Exemption | - | FS 163.045 with arborist letter |
| Grand Tree fine | - | Up to $6,855 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Seminole FAQ
Do I need a permit to cut down a tree in my yard?
Yes for any protected tree four inches DBH or larger. Submit a permit application unless an ISA-certified arborist documents the tree as a risk under Florida HB 1159.
What is required when a permit is approved?
The City typically requires replacement plantings based on the size and species removed. Specimen and historic trees may require enhanced mitigation or relocation rather than removal.
St. Petersburg FAQ
Can I remove a tree under Florida's homeowner law in St. Pete?
Only if a Florida-licensed landscape architect or ISA-certified arborist documents in writing that the tree presents an unacceptable risk under ANSI BMP standards before removal.
What happens if I remove a tree without a St. Petersburg permit?
Urban Forestry assesses an after-the-fact permit fee, replacement requirements, and fines based on tree size. A Grand Tree removal can total nearly $7,000 in charges.
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