Lakeland, FL Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)

Two separate trimming duties sit back to back in Article III of Chapter 38. The first, Sec. 38-54, targets sight-line hazards: if a tree, shrub, plant or other obstruction on a lot blocks a driver's view of oncoming traffic at streets, alleys or intersections, the owner must remove or trim it. The city's traffic engineer, or absent that office the chief of police, investigates complaints, must give the property owner written notice describing the hazard, and holds a hearing at least ten days later before ordering removal within ten days of the order. Ignoring the order is a separate offense enforced by warrant.

The second duty, Secs. 38-55 through 38-59, covers vegetation near electric wires carrying 110 volts or more. Sec. 38-56 declares any tree, palm or vegetation growing within five feet of such a wire a nuisance detrimental to public safety, and Sec. 38-57 makes it unlawful for the property owner to allow that growth to occur in the first place. If the city manager finds a violation, Sec. 38-58 requires 15 days' written notice by registered mail before the owner must cut back the growth; the owner can instead authorize the city in writing to do the trimming. If the owner does neither, Sec. 38-59 lets the city manager have the vegetation removed regardless.