Tree removal permit rules in Hialeah, FL — sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances — list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
Hialeah follows Miami-Dade County's tree protection framework under County Code Section 24-49, which mandates protection of tree and forest resources. Removal of protected native species such as live oak, mahogany, and gumbo limbo requires a tree removal permit from the city. Dead, hazardous, or invasive trees may qualify for exemptions.
Hialeah enforces tree protection through the Miami-Dade County Environmental Protection Code (Section 24-49) and the city's Land Development Code. Protected native species include live oak, mahogany, gumbo limbo, royal palm, and other South Florida canopy trees. A tree removal permit must be obtained before removing any protected tree with a trunk diameter of 4 inches or greater at breast height. The permit application requires a site survey showing tree locations and species. Mitigation may be required through replanting or payment into a tree fund. Exemptions exist for dead, diseased, or hazardous trees documented by a certified arborist, and for invasive species such as Australian pine, Brazilian pepper, and melaleuca. The city's dense urban environment makes canopy preservation a priority for stormwater management and heat island mitigation.
Removing a protected tree without a permit can result in fines of $100 to $500 per tree plus mandatory replanting. Repeat violations or removal of heritage-size trees may result in enhanced penalties. Contact Code Compliance at (305) 556-8380 for enforcement questions.
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