Seminole, FL requires a tree removal permit under Chapter 62, Article II for protected trees on private property, with mitigation through replacement plantings. Florida HB 1159 may exempt removals of dangerous trees certified by an arborist.
Removing a protected tree in the City of Seminole requires a permit under Sec. 62-40 and related provisions of Chapter 62, Article II. Protected trees generally include any tree with a DBH of four inches or greater, with stricter review for specimen and historic trees. Applicants submit a site plan, tree survey, and reason for removal. Approval typically conditions removal on replacement plantings consistent with the City's tree mitigation schedule. Florida HB 1159 (codified at FS 163.045) exempts removal of trees on residential property when an ISA-certified arborist or licensed landscape architect provides written documentation that the tree poses an unacceptable risk. The City requires the homeowner to retain that documentation.
Permit denial, mandatory replacement plantings, civil fines up to $500 per tree, and Code Enforcement Board penalties for unpermitted removals.
See how other cities in Pinellas County handle tree removal & heritage trees.
See how Seminole's tree removal & heritage trees rules stack up against other locations.
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