Orlando, FL Tree Protection: Heritage & Protected Trees (2026)
Key Facts
- Historic Tree threshold
- 30" dbh trunk caliper
- Designating authority
- Parks Official
- Max fine, unpermitted removal
- $15,000
- Protection scope
- Applies regardless of location in city
- Appeal path
- Applicant may appeal designation
Summary
Orlando's Parks Official can officially designate outstanding or aged trees as Specimen or Historic Trees, protecting them wherever they sit in the city. Removing or encroaching on a designated tree without a permit can draw a fine of up to $15,000.
Historic Trees shall be described as any healthy tree with a trunk caliper of 30" dbh or more...The removal of or encroachment on any designated Specimen or Historic Tree is prohibited unless authorized under a valid tree removal or tree encroachment permit. The removal of a historic or specimen tree without a permit is deemed to be an irreparable and irreversible violation. A fine of up to fifteen thousand dollars ($15,000.00) may be imposed for the removal of a historic or specimen tree without a permit.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 92).
Full Breakdown
" Designation requires a site visit, tree evaluation and a filed letter of evaluation, and can be initiated by a property owner's request (backed by an expert evaluation), by the Parks Official during development review (appealable by the applicant), or as part of a citywide program approved by City Council resolution. 210(f) makes unpermitted removal "deemed to be an irreparable and irreversible violation," carrying a fine of up to $15,000, with the gravity of the violation, corrective actions and any prior violations weighed in setting the amount. The section stems from Ord. No. 2013-74 (12-9-2013) and Ord. No. 2020-13 (4-13-2020).
Violations & Fines
Removing a Specimen or Historic Tree without a valid permit is treated as an irreparable, irreversible violation under § 60.210(f), exposing the responsible party to a fine of up to $15,000, with the Code Enforcement Board weighing the violation's gravity, corrective steps taken, and any prior offenses in setting the penalty.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does a tree get designated Historic or Specimen in Orlando?
What size makes a tree 'Historic' under Orlando's code?
What's the penalty for cutting down a designated tree without a permit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Orlando
Florida rules heatmap·Compare Orlando to another location·View the Florida tree protection overview
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