Bradenton, FL Tree Protection: Protected Tree Species (2026)

Section 2.2.3.1 of the Land Use Regulations defines a protected tree as a woody, self-supporting plant with a mainstem or a cluster of mainstems and a diameter at breast height, measured four and one-half feet above ground, of four inches. A tree is further defined as a plant that grows to at least 15 feet high at maturity in the Manatee County area. Four species are specifically included regardless of size: Rhizophora mangle (red mangrove), Laguncularia racemosa (white mangrove), Avicennia germinans (black mangrove) and Conocarpus erecta (buttonwood). A group of four or more trees that has trunk diameters under four inches but forms a compact unit or grove covering 50 square feet or more in area is also included.

Several classes are exempt from the tree removal permit requirement unless they are part of an approved landscape or PDP plan: the listed invasive species prohibited trees, fruit trees including citrus, mango and avocado, and palms other than Sabal palms, or groupings of four or more silver, paurotis, key thatch and Florida thatch palms, where the PCD director can give credit case by case. Trees destroyed or harmed by hurricane or tornado also fall in this list, but the PCD director must be notified at least two days before removal.

Protection also covers how a protected tree is treated while it stands. Tree trimming that threatens the life of the tree or deforms the natural canopy is prohibited, and no more than one-third of a tree's crown or foliage area can be removed during the life of the tree. Intrusive attachments or impacts such as nails, screws or drilling are prohibited, except for trees in rear yards of single-family residences. Dead trees are not exempt: they must be inspected before removal and replaced under the land use regulations. A tree that threatens public safety can come out without a permit if the threat is imminent, with a permit required after the fact.

A permit application must give the type and diameter at breast height of each tree, if known, and the reason for removal, and the permit is issued or denied under subsection 4.1.2.2 and other provisions of the Land Use Regulations.