Tree removal permit rules in Broward County, FL — sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances — list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
Florida Statute 163.045 (HB 1159) lets a Broward homeowner remove a tree with a certified arborist risk letter, overriding local permit rules for documented hazards.
Historically Broward County Code Chapter 27 required a Tree Removal Permit for protected trees over 4 inches DBH (diameter at breast height) on residential property. Florida Statute 163.045 preempts that when a homeowner obtains written documentation from a certified arborist or Florida-licensed landscape architect stating the tree poses an unacceptable risk. No local permit, fee, or replacement can be required for a qualifying removal. For non-hazard removals, Broward still requires a permit and mitigation, typically replacement with two native shade trees or a cash-in-lieu payment to the tree trust fund. Mangroves are separately protected under Florida Statute 403.9321 regardless of risk. Commercial parcels continue to follow full Chapter 27 review.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Broward County, FL
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See how Broward County's tree removal & heritage trees rules stack up against other locations.
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