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

Heavy Restrictions

Verified 1 month ago|Source: Municode Library →

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Key Facts

Specimen Live Oak: 24+ inch DBH
Approval: P&Z Board required
TPZ: Drip line fencing
Mitigation: 3:1 or higher

These county ordinances apply to unincorporated areas of Brevard County. Incorporated cities within the county may have their own rules that take precedence over county-level regulations.

Summary

Brevard County designates specimen and historic trees under LDC Article XIII. Live oaks 24+ inches DBH and historic trees require enhanced protection. Removal needs P&Z approval and mitigation at 3:1 or higher.

Full Breakdown

Brevard County Land Development Code Article XIII identifies specimen trees (generally live oaks 24+ inches DBH, cypress 30+ inches, and other exceptional native species). Specimen and historic trees receive enhanced protection beyond standard tree ordinance. Removal requires Planning & Zoning Board approval and is rarely granted except for documented hazard. Construction projects must protect specimen trees with tree protection zones (TPZ) equal to the drip line, fenced during construction. Damage during construction triggers significant fines and remediation. Residents and property owners can nominate trees for specimen status. Historic district trees (Cocoa Village, downtown Melbourne, Titusville) receive additional layer of protection through local historic preservation boards.

Violations & Fines

Unauthorized removal of specimen tree: $2,000-$25,000 plus 3:1 or 5:1 replacement mitigation. Damage during construction (root zone violation): $1,000-$10,000 plus arborist remediation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who enforces heritage trees rules in Brevard County?

Brevard County's code enforcement division is responsible for tree protection ordinances. You can report violations or request information through the Brevard County government website or by calling the main municipal line.

What are typical penalties for violating heritage trees rules?

Most Brevard County tree protection violations start with a written warning followed by escalating civil fines for repeat offenses. Specific dollar amounts and any criminal-misdemeanor exposure depend on the section of code; consult Brevard County's municipal code or staff for the current penalty schedule.

How does Brevard County compare?

See how Brevard County's heritage & protected trees rules stack up against other locations.

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

Key Facts

Summary

Full Breakdown

Violations & Fines

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & Official References

Related Brevard County Ordinances

Noise Ordinances: Quiet Hours

Noise Ordinances: Leaf Blower Rules

Parking Rules: Abandoned Vehicles

Parking Rules: RV & Boat Parking

Fence Regulations: Height Limits

Animal Ordinances: Beekeeping

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