Temple Terrace, FL Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)
Key Facts
- Standard
- ANSI A300
- State Preempt
- FL §163.045
- Certified
- ISA arborist
- Utility Lines
- TECO handles
- Neighbor Tree
- Consent needed
Summary
Homeowners in Temple Terrace may trim trees on their own property but must follow ANSI A300 standards for health and should hire an ISA-certified arborist for large or hazardous work. FL §163.045 limits local permit requirements when a certified arborist documents danger to persons or property.
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 possesses documentation from an arborist certified by the ISA or a Florida licensed landscape architect that the tree poses an unacceptable risk to persons or property. A tree poses an unacceptable risk if removal is the only means of practically mitigating its risk below moderate, as determined by the tree risk assessment procedures outlined in Best Management Practices - Tree Risk Assessment, Second Edition (2017).
Full Breakdown
FL §163.045 (2019) bars municipalities from requiring permits or replacement for residential tree pruning or removal when an ISA-certified arborist or Florida-licensed landscape architect documents the tree poses a danger. Routine trimming of non-hazardous trees still falls under Temple Terrace's tree protection ordinance. Utility-line clearance pruning around TECO lines is performed by the utility without homeowner permit. Trimming trees on neighboring property or over the right-of-way without consent is prohibited.
Violations & Fines
Over-pruning (topping) protected species: citation plus mitigation requirements. Trimming neighbor's tree: civil liability for damages under FL common law.
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Temple Terrace
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