Clearwater requires replacement trees of similar species and size when a permitted protected tree is removed, with planting expected within a short window after removal to maintain canopy.
Clearwater's Tree Protection Ordinance under Community Development Code Article 3, Division 12 ties replacement obligations to permitted removals. Replacement trees should generally be of a similar species and size to the tree removed and must be planted within the timeframe established by the permit, typically around 90 days. The Planning and Development Department reviews replacement landscape plans alongside removal applications. Where on-site replacement is not feasible due to size or site constraints, alternatives such as fee-in-lieu contributions to the city tree fund or off-site planting may be approved.
Failure to plant required replacement trees results in escalating fines, contempt findings before the special magistrate, and potential liens until compliance is achieved.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Pinellas County.
See how other cities in Pinellas County handle tree replacement requirements.
See how Clearwater's tree replacement requirements rules stack up against other locations.
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