Coral Gables, FL Tree Protection: Heritage & Protected Trees (2026)
Key Facts
- Protected size
- 18-inch DBH or greater
- Heritage denial ground
- Sec. 82-34(2), important community heritage
- Historic district ground
- Sec. 82-34(5), landmark/historic character
- Appeal window
- 10 days after decision
- Willful city-tree damage fine
- Up to $15,000
Summary
Coral Gables can deny a specimen tree removal permit outright if the tree holds community heritage value or stands on a historic landmark property, even when no other preservation criteria are met.
a tree permit may be denied by the tree preservation agency if the subject specimen tree is relatively healthy, is not damaged to the extent that will inhibit its potential growth, and any of the following is determined:
(1)The subject specimen tree plays an important role in the specimen tree canopy, public welfare or ecology of the city's urban forest.(2)The subject specimen tree is a part of an important heritage to the community.(3)The subject specimen tree is a part of an established streetscape and that its removal will diminish the established tree-lined character if not replaced with an appropriate species of similar quality.(4)A modification to the specimen tree consistent with International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Best Management Practices is feasible and will not cause future damage to the public and structures in the area.(5)For historic landmarks or properties located in a historic district, the removal of the specimen tree will negatively affect the historic character established for the property or district. In addition, the tree preservation agency will also consider and weigh the criteria outlined in section 82-35 against the subsections above in deciding whether to approve or deny a permit for tree removal or relocation. Mitigation may also be ordered in appropriate circumstances.
(Ord. No. 2017-45, § 2(Att. A), 12-5-2017)
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Fee Schedule: Supplement 2 | Zoning Code: Supplement 1 | Code of Ordinances: Supplement 25 Update 1).
Full Breakdown
Any tree with a trunk DBH of 18 inches or greater is a protected "specimen tree" under Sec. 82-28. Before removing one, an owner must get a permit from the city's Tree Preservation Agency. Under Sec. 82-34, the agency can deny that permit outright if the tree "is a part of an important heritage to the community" or sits on a historic landmark property, where removal would harm the district's historic character: separate from the ordinance's canopy, streetscape, and safety criteria. Denials can be appealed within ten days under Sec. 82-35.
Violations & Fines
Unpermitted removal or injury to a specimen tree draws a fine up to $1,000 for a first offense, $5,000 for repeats, and up to 60 days jail (Sec. 82-37); willful damage to a specimen tree on city property or right-of-way carries a fine up to $15,000 plus the tree's monetary value and attorney's fees (Sec. 82-38).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I remove a heritage tree in Coral Gables if it's healthy?
What size tree counts as protected in Coral Gables?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Coral Gables
Florida rules heatmap·Compare Coral Gables to another location·View the Florida tree protection overview
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