Cocoa, FL Landscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage Trees (2026)

Appendix A, article XIII, section 22(E) of the Cocoa zoning code requires a tree removal permit before any tree is cut on vacant or undeveloped property, the open space of developed property other than single-family or duplex lots, or public and private rights-of-way; a companion land clearing permit is required before clearing land of trees and vegetation. Single-family and duplex lots are excluded from the permit requirement, as is the removal of trees that pose an unacceptable risk under Fla. 045 and tree work by an electric utility clearing power lines.

An application must include a scaled tree inventory showing property boundaries, the location and species of every tree, which trees are proposed for removal, a replacement plan under subsection (E)(5), and, for grading work, a professional statement on whether the grade change will kill preserved trees. The enforcement official may waive parts of the application for isolated removals on already-developed land. A permit expires 90 days after issuance unless tied to an approved subdivision plat or site plan, with up to two 30-day extensions available from the building official for weather or agency delays.

5 feet of a foundation, or trees that will be replaced elsewhere under the code's replacement tables. Replacement trees are sized by Table 2: a tree with a 13 to 23 inch trunk requires four 3-inch replacements, and land left bare more than 60 days must be seeded or mulched to control erosion. Owners may instead pay into the Arbor Mitigation Fund at $100 per inch not replaced for ordinary trees.