Tree removal permit rules in Miami, FL — sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances — list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
Miami requires permits for removing trees with a trunk diameter of 3 inches or more at breast height. Specimen trees with 18-inch or greater diameter receive heightened protection. Exemptions exist for single-family yard trees that are not specimen or heritage trees.
The City of Miami tree protection ordinance requires a permit to remove any tree with a diameter at breast height (DBH) of 3 inches or more or an overall height of 12 feet or more. Specimen trees (DBH of 18 inches or greater) receive additional protection and generally require replacement plantings. Single-family properties are exempt for non-specimen yard trees not part of a natural forest community. Commercial and multi-family developments must obtain permits for all qualifying removals. Applications are processed in approximately 21 days. Tree removal during nesting season may require wildlife assessments. Illegal removal results in treble replacement costs.
Illegal tree removal results in fines calculated at treble the replacement cost of the tree. Additional penalties include mandatory replanting at a ratio determined by the city arborist.
Miami, FL
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Miami-Dade County.
See how other cities in Miami-Dade County handle tree removal & heritage trees.
See how Miami's tree removal & heritage trees rules stack up against other locations.
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