Hillsborough County, FL Landscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage Trees (2026)
Tree removal permit rules in Hillsborough County, FL, sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances, list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
Key Facts
- Protected size
- 5-inch DBH or greater
- Grand oak replacement
- Up to 2:1 ratio
- Dripline
- No disturbance without approval
- Removal
- Requires Natural Resources Permit
Summary
Hillsborough County requires developers to preserve every tree 5+ inches in trunk diameter and every grand oak on a site, with a Natural Resources Permit needed to remove one and replacement required at up to 2:1 for large grand oaks.
The developer shall preserve all trees having a DBH of five inches or greater and native vegetation as described below... The developer shall preserve all trees identified as a grand oak unless authorized for removal by the Administrator.
Full Breakdown
LDC § 4.01.06 requires developers to design around, and preserve, all trees with a DBH of 5 inches or greater plus native vegetation, with limited exceptions for access, unhealthy trees, utilities and similar needs. Grand oaks must be preserved unless the Administrator authorizes removal. Removing a tree 24+ inches DBH triggers replacement of 50% of its diameter; grand oaks scale up to a 2:1 replacement ratio above 60 inches DBH. It's unlawful to disturb soil, dump debris, or run equipment within a protected tree's dripline if doing so could kill it within two years. Removal requires a Natural Resources Permit, reviewed per Development Procedures § 4.1.6.1.4.
Violations & Fines
Damaging a protected tree's dripline or removing trees without a Natural Resources Permit is a code violation; under LDC § 11.06.03 it's a misdemeanor punishable by up to $500 and 60 days in jail, with each day a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in unincorporated Hillsborough County?
What happens if I damage a protected tree during construction?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Hillsborough County
Florida rules heatmap·Compare Hillsborough County to another location·View the Florida landscaping rules overview
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