Fort Myers, FL Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)

FS 163.045 (Tree pruning, trimming, or removal on residential property) states: 'A local government may not require a notice, application, approval, permit, fee, or mitigation for the pruning, trimming, or removal of a tree on a residential property if the property owner obtains documentation from an arborist certified by the International Society of Arboriculture or a Florida licensed landscape architect that the tree presents a danger to persons or property.' 'Residential property' is defined as a single-family, detached building on a lot that is actively used for single-family residential purposes. The risk assessment must follow ANSI/ISA Best Management Practices — Tree Risk Assessment, Second Edition (2017). The statute does not preempt the City for non-residential parcels, multifamily/townhome lots, or trees in the City right-of-way — those still fall under Fort Myers Chapter 138 (Vegetation) and Land Development Code review. Routine ornamental pruning on private property without a risk justification is generally unregulated by the City, but the City urges adherence to ANSI A300 standards (no 'hat-racking' or topping) consistent with Tree City USA standards.