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

Schedule D, Section 4.0(E) of Sanford's Land Development Regulations governs tree protection specifically within residential planned development (PD) projects, making it prohibited and unlawful to remove or in any way damage a protected tree without first obtaining an arbor permit from the city. The section defines two protected categories. A historic tree is any tree of any size or protected species that the city commission has designated as one of notable historical interest and value because of its location or its historical association with the community.

A specimen tree is any tree of a protected species with a diameter of 36 inches or greater; removing one requires the applicant to show the administrative official that the tree is a hazard or that developing the parcel is not economically feasible without removing it, after the administrative official consults with the city arborist on viable alternatives. A PD's design must attempt to preserve both specimen and historic trees, and no removal permit issues unless the developer shows one of five conditions, including that a permissible use cannot proceed without removing the tree, the tree threatens a structure's safety or a utility service, it creates a traffic hazard, or it is diseased or storm-weakened.

Any protected tree that is removed must be replaced at a 3-to-1 ratio using Florida Department of Agriculture Nursery Grade No. 1 stock or better, at the developer's expense.