Doral, FL Tree Protection: Heritage & Protected Trees (2026)

The City of Doral's tree protection ordinance provides enhanced protections for heritage and specimen trees. Heritage trees are generally defined as trees of significant size, age, or historical importance to the community. Specimen trees include large native Florida species such as live oaks, royal palms, and other mature canopy trees that meet specific size thresholds. These trees receive the highest level of protection and cannot be removed without demonstrating that no reasonable alternative exists. The removal application for heritage or specimen trees typically requires a certified arborist report documenting the tree's condition and the justification for removal. If removal is approved, enhanced replacement ratios apply — the property owner may be required to plant multiple replacement trees or pay into the city's tree fund at the full appraised value of the removed tree. During construction, heritage trees must be protected with construction barriers maintaining a minimum root protection zone. Damage to heritage trees during construction may result in stop-work orders and fines based on the tree's appraised value. The city may maintain a registry of significant trees. Contact the Building Department at (305) 593-6740 for heritage tree inquiries.