Fort Lauderdale requires tree removal permits under ULDR Section 47-21.15 for trees with 8-inch caliper or greater. The Department of Sustainable Development determines equivalent replacement requirements. Several invasive exotic species are exempt from permit requirements.
Under ULDR Section 47-21.15, it is unlawful to remove a dicot or conifer tree of 3 inches or more in diameter, or a monocot of 8 feet or more of wood, on other than a developed single-family lot without a tree removal permit. For single-family lots, the threshold is 8 inches at true caliper. Upon receiving an application, the department determines the equivalent replacement or equivalent value for each tree to be removed. Exempt species that do not require permits or replacements include: Schinus spp. (Brazilian Pepper), Metopium toxiferum (Poisonwood), Casuarina spp. (Australian Pine), Melaleuca spp. (Paper Bark), Euphorbia tirucalli (Pencil Tree), Bischofia javanica (Bishopwood), Acacia auriculaeformis (Earleaf Acacia), Araucaria excelsa (Norfolk Island Pine), Cupaniopsis anacardioides (Carrotwood), and Brassia actinophylla (Schefflera).
Trees removed without permits must be replaced with the largest tree reasonably available. If the removed tree was a code-required tree, replacement with the largest available tree is mandatory plus potential equivalent value payment.
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