Clearwater requires a permit before removing any protected tree or palm with a ten-foot clear and straight trunk, with limited exceptions including dead or hazardous trees and all citrus species.
Article 4, Division 12 of the Clearwater Community Development Code governs tree removal permits, while Article 3, Division 12 sets protection standards. No person may remove or cause to be removed any protected tree or any palm with a ten-foot clear and straight trunk without first obtaining a permit. Citrus species are exempted from the permit requirement. Applications are filed with the Planning and Development Department, which reviews tree health, location, and replacement obligations. Dead, diseased, or hazardous trees may qualify for expedited review.
Unpermitted removal of a protected tree is a serious code violation, leading to fines, mandatory replacement, and potential liens on the property.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Pinellas County.
See how other cities in Pinellas County handle tree removal permits.
See how Clearwater's tree removal permits rules stack up against other locations.
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