Boynton Beach, FL Landscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage Trees (2026)
Tree removal permit rules in Boynton Beach, FL, sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances, list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
Key Facts
- Residential
- No permit with arborist letter
- Commercial
- Permit required
- Mangroves
- FL §403.9321 protected
- Replacement
- 1:1 commercial only
Summary
Boynton Beach cannot require permits or mitigation for residential tree removal when the homeowner has written documentation from a certified arborist that the tree is dangerous, under FL §163.045. Commercial and multifamily properties still need a removal permit.
(1) For purposes of this section, the term: (a) "Documentation" means an onsite assessment performed in accordance with the tree risk assessment procedures outlined in Best Management Practices - Tree Risk Assessment, Second Edition (2017) by an arborist certified by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) or a Florida licensed landscape architect and signed by the certified arborist or licensed landscape architect. (b) "Residential property" means a single-family, detached building located on a lot that is actively used for single-family residential purposes and that is either a conforming use or a legally recognized nonconforming use in accordance with the local jurisdiction's applicable land development regulations. (2) A local government may not require a notice, application, approval, permit, fee, or mitigation for the pruning, trimming, or removal of a tree on a residential property if the property owner possesses documentation from an arborist certified by the ISA or a Florida licensed landscape architect that the tree poses an unacceptable risk to persons or property. A tree poses an unacceptable risk if removal is the only means of practically mitigating its risk below moderate, as determined by the tree risk assessment procedures outlined in Best Management Practices - Tree Risk Assessment, Second Edition (2017). (3) A local government may not require a property owner to replant a tree that was pruned, trimmed, or removed in accordance with this section.
Full Breakdown
FL §163.045 fully preempts local tree removal ordinances on single-family residential lots when an ISA-certified arborist or FL-licensed landscape architect documents hazard. Boynton Beach retains full authority over commercial sites, PUDs, and landscape buffers required by site plans. Mangroves along the Intracoastal Waterway are protected under FL §403.9321 (Mangrove Trimming and Preservation Act) regardless of the tree preemption. Historic trees like specimen live oaks may still require county review in conservation easements.
Violations & Fines
Commercial removal without permit: $500 per tree plus 1:1 replacement. Mangrove destruction: FL DEP fine up to $10,000 per tree. Removing trees in a recorded landscape buffer: zoning violation, mitigation required.
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Boynton Beach
Florida rules heatmap·Compare Boynton Beach to another location·View the Florida landscaping rules overview
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Tree Removal & Heritage Trees in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Palm Beach County handle tree removal & heritage trees.