Tree removal permit rules in Lee County, FL — sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances — list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
Under Lee County LDC Chapter 14, Article V, a tree protected by the article may be lawfully removed only after a vegetation/tree removal permit is secured from the administrator. Protected species are listed in Appendix E of the LDC.
Lee County Land Development Code Section 14-382 provides that any tree defined and protected by Article V (Tree Protection) may be lawfully removed only after a permit is secured from the administrator. Protected species are those listed in LDC Appendix E, the Lee County Protected Tree List. Removal or relocation of native vegetation and protected trees generally requires a vegetation permit through the Division of Environmental Sciences, with submittal requirements varying by situation (single-family clearing on large or barrier-island lots, agricultural clearing, single-tree removal on common property, etc.). Section 14-377 sets exemptions, including limited removal of a small number of trees from an existing single-family homestead lot.
Removing a protected tree without the required permit violates LDC Chapter 14, Article V, enforceable through the Lee County code-enforcement/Hearing Examiner process. Illegal removal typically triggers replacement (reforestation) requirements plus fines; contact Environmental Sciences at 239-533-8389.
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See how Lee County's tree removal & heritage trees rules stack up against other locations.
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