North Miami requires a permit to remove any tree with a trunk diameter of 4 inches or greater measured at 4.5 feet above grade. The city's tree protection ordinance applies to both private and public property. Tropical hardwoods and specimen trees receive heightened protection. Replacement trees are typically required.
Under the North Miami Code of Ordinances (Chapter 22 — Trees and Vegetation), a tree removal permit is required before removing, relocating, or significantly pruning any tree with a trunk diameter of 4 inches or more measured at 4.5 feet above ground (diameter at breast height or DBH). This applies to trees on both private and public property. The permit application must include a site plan showing the tree's location, species identification, reason for removal, and proposed replacement plan. An arborist assessment may be required for large or specimen trees. The city arborist or designated official reviews applications and may deny permits for healthy trees that can be preserved. Dead, diseased, or hazardous trees may qualify for emergency removal with after-the-fact permitting. Tropical hardwood species native to South Florida receive heightened protection. Trees removed during development must be replaced at ratios specified in the ordinance. Mangroves along waterfront areas are protected under both city and state law (FL Statute 403.9321-403.9333). Contact the Community Planning and Development Department at (305) 895-9825 for tree removal permits.
Removing a protected tree without a permit carries fines based on the tree's assessed value, which can reach thousands of dollars for mature specimens. Replacement trees must be planted within a specified timeframe. Unauthorized removal of mangroves violates state law with penalties up to $10,000 per violation. Developers who remove trees without permits face stop-work orders and additional penalties.
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