Fort Myers, FL Landscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage Trees (2026)
Tree removal permit rules in Fort Myers, 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
- DBH threshold
- 4 inches or greater
- Mangroves
- permit required at any size
- Permit validity
- expires 6 months after issuance
- Fine per violation
- $250, plus $1,000 min. replacement
- Appeal path
- tree removal review board, then board of adjustments
Summary
Cutting down any tree 4 inches or more in trunk diameter within Fort Myers city limits requires a city permit first, and mangroves need one regardless of size.
On any real property (other than as exempted in subsection (c) of this section) located within the limits of the city, it shall be unlawful for any person to deliberately remove any tree having a diameter at breast height (DBH) of four inches or greater without first having procured a permit as provided in this division.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 60).
Full Breakdown
Fort Myers' Land Development Code makes it unlawful to deliberately remove a tree with a diameter at breast height of 4 inches or greater, or any mangrove regardless of size, without a permit from the development services division. The city can deny a permit if removal would drop the property below required tree minimums, or for trees it deems unique for ecological value, character, size, age, or historic properties. Denied applicants can appeal to a five-member tree removal review board and, after that, to the board of adjustments. Platted lots in the AAA, AA, A and A-1 land use districts are exempt unless already put to another permitted use, and utility companies clearing lines for FPL, telephone or cable service don't need a permit. Issued permits expire six months after issuance.
Violations & Fines
Unauthorized cutting, trimming, removal or defacing carries a $250 fine per occurrence, a minimum $1,000 replacement cost (or the price of an equal-size replacement tree), and can be charged as a second-degree misdemeanor under state law: up to 60 days in jail and/or a $500 fine, with each tree removed a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to cut down a tree in Fort Myers?
Is any property exempt from Fort Myers' tree removal permit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Fort Myers
Florida rules heatmap·Compare Fort Myers to another location·View the Florida landscaping rules overview
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Tree Removal & Heritage Trees in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Lee County handle tree removal & heritage trees.