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

34 of the Orlando City Code protects trees citywide, applying to every parcel inside the corporate limits. 5 feet above grade (smaller trees down to 1 inch are separately protected under the development-review standard in subsection D(3)). Destroying, permanently injuring, or removing a protected tree without first obtaining a tree removal permit from the Parks Official or designee is unlawful. Owners of single-family, two-family, or townhome residential property are excused from the formal permit application only if they obtain documentation from an ISA-certified arborist or a Florida-licensed landscape architect stating the tree is dangerous.

Applicants who are not exempt file with the Parks Official and pay a nonrefundable inspection fee of $25 per acre (or fraction) for residential land and $50 per acre for nonresidential land; the same fee applies when tree removal is tied to a subdivision plat or building permit review. A standalone removal permit becomes void 90 days after issuance. The Parks Official weighs safety hazards to people, buildings, or utilities, interference with a lot's proper development, and disease or storm damage when deciding whether to grant removal, and may require relocation or replacement with a comparable tree on the same lot.

Anyone who disagrees with a decision can appeal in writing to the Families, Parks and Recreation Director, with a copy to the City Clerk, within 10 days of receiving the written decision.