Tree removal permit rules in West Palm Beach, FL — sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances — list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
West Palm Beach requires a tree removal permit for any tree 4-inch DBH or greater under City Code §94 Article XIII. FL §163.045 only exempts removal where a certified arborist or licensed landscape architect documents danger to persons or property.
Permit applications are reviewed by the City Forester and require replacement at a 1:1 caliper-inch ratio or payment into the Tree Trust Fund. Heritage trees, including live oaks over 24-inch DBH, mahogany, and gumbo limbo, require additional review and 2:1 mitigation. FL §163.045 (2019, amended 2022) preempts local permitting only when an ISA Certified Arborist or FL-licensed landscape architect provides written documentation that the tree poses an unacceptable risk; the documentation must be kept on file by the homeowner.
Unpermitted removal: appraised value of the tree (typically $1,500-$15,000) plus mitigation plantings and up to $500 daily fines.
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