Davie, FL Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)

The Town of Davie allows a homeowner to prune trees on their own property, but only when the work is done 'in accordance with the American National Standard for Tree Care Operations - Tree, Shrub and Other Woody Plant Maintenance - Standard Practices, ANSI A300 - 2001,' and provided the trees are 'not abused (topped, hat-racked, flush cut, over-lifted, etc.).' The town's FAQ cites Sec. 12-145 as the section prohibiting improper pruning practices. Improper cuts such as topping (cutting back to stubs) and hat-racking (severe over-thinning) damage trees and can themselves be code violations. If a resident hires a tree service rather than doing the work personally, the business or individual must be insured and must hold a current, valid Broward County Tree Trimmer's License - a county licensing requirement that applies to commercial tree work in Davie. The town strongly recommends licensed, insured professionals because tree work is potentially dangerous, but using a professional is not legally mandatory for a homeowner's own pruning. Questions about pruning standards or whether a particular cut is permitted can be directed to the town's Chief Landscape Inspector in the Planning and Zoning Division.