Mangroves are protected under the Florida Mangrove Trimming and Preservation Act (FL Statute Section 403.9321-9333). While Homestead is inland, mangroves may exist along canals and low-lying areas. Trimming is restricted to professional mangrove trimmers or exempt activities. Removal requires DEP permits and is rarely approved.
Mangroves are protected throughout Florida under the Mangrove Trimming and Preservation Act (FL Statute Sections 403.9321 through 403.9333). While Homestead is inland, mangroves can be found along some canal banks, retention areas, and low-lying zones where tidal or brackish water influence exists. The three protected species are red mangrove (Rhizophora mangle), black mangrove (Avicennia germinans), and white mangrove (Laguncularia racemosa). Homeowners may trim mangroves on their property to a height of no less than 6 feet using a professional mangrove trimmer, but must not remove the tree or trim below 6 feet without a DEP permit. Mangrove removal is rarely permitted and requires extensive mitigation. Even dead mangroves should not be removed without verification that they are truly dead, as some species shed leaves seasonally. Mangroves provide critical storm surge protection, shoreline stabilization, and nursery habitat for marine species. Miami-Dade County's environmental regulations add supplementary protections.
Unauthorized mangrove trimming below 6 feet or removal carries fines of $100 to $10,000 per tree under state law. DEP and county environmental enforcement applies. Contact FL DEP at (305) 377-5015.
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