Tree removal permit rules in Clearwater, FL — sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances — list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
Clearwater requires a removal permit for any protected tree four inches DBH or greater and for palms with ten-foot clear straight trunks, with replacement plantings mandatory within 90 days and removal of specimen or historic trees prohibited.
Community Development Code Section 4-1202 requires written application to the Community Development Coordinator before removing any protected tree. Protected trees include shade trees four inches DBH and larger and accent trees two inches DBH and larger. Multifamily and nonresidential applications must include a site plan showing all protected trees by size, canopy, and species, plus a tree inventory prepared by a certified arborist. Removal of specimen or historic trees is prohibited entirely. The Coordinator considers tree condition, structure, disease, danger of falling, and proximity to structures. Permits are valid for six months with extensions for good cause. Replacement trees of similar species and size must be planted within 90 days. Citrus species and dead trees are exempt.
Civil penalties, mandatory replacement of inch-for-inch DBH lost, stop-work orders, and potential fines through the Code Enforcement Board for unauthorized removal.
Clearwater, FL
Clearwater enforces Florida's Residential Swimming Pool Safety Act requiring a 4-foot barrier, self-closing gates, or alternative safety features on every ne...
Clearwater, FL
Clearwater follows Florida Building Code Residential Section R314 and Florida Statute 553.883 for smoke alarms, plus the Florida Fire Prevention Code adopted...
Clearwater, FL
Clearwater does not impose an annual night cap, because Florida Statute 509.032(7)(b) preempts cities adopted after June 1, 2011 from limiting the frequency ...
Clearwater, FL
Clearwater allows transient lodging (rentals under 31 days) only in Tourist District and Commercial zoning where the use is permitted, and requires a city Bu...
Clearwater, FL
Clearwater Code Chapter 22 establishes park use regulations, with most city parks closing at 11:00 p.m. or sunset and entry prohibited during posted closed h...
Clearwater, FL
Clearwater enforces juvenile curfew rules adopted by reference from Florida Statutes Sec. 877.20 through 877.24, restricting minors in public places during o...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Pinellas County.
See how other cities in Pinellas County handle tree removal & heritage trees.
See how Clearwater's tree removal & heritage trees rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.