Lee County requires a vegetation/tree removal permit before removing protected trees or clearing native vegetation. Permits are issued by the Division of Environmental Sciences under LDC Chapter 14, Article V; a limited single-family homestead exemption applies.
Under Lee County LDC Section 14-382, a protected tree may be lawfully removed only after a permit is secured from the administrator, and native vegetation clearing requires a vegetation permit. Applications go through the Division of Environmental Sciences with submittal requirements that vary: single-family clearing (for lots 5 acres or more, barrier-island lots, or Pine Island lots 2 acres or more) needs a site plan; single-tree removal on community common property needs species, quantity, location, and photos; agricultural clearing needs a notarized Notice of Clearing. Section 14-377 exempts limited removals, and unauthorized clearing followed by a rezoning within three years can trigger open-space reforestation requirements under Chapter 10 and Section 14-384.
Removing protected trees or clearing native vegetation without the required permit violates LDC Chapter 14, Article V, enforced through Lee County code enforcement and the Hearing Examiner. Consequences commonly include replacement/reforestation obligations plus fines. Contact Environmental Sciences at 239-533-8389.
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