Orlando Tree Removal Permit & Ordinance Guide

Orange County, Florida

Verified

Protected Tree Definition

4.0" DBH minimum for protection

Protected tree: 4 inches DBH or greater measured 4.5 feet above grade. Historic/specimen trees (large live oak, bald cypress, and designated specimens) receive enhanced protection.

Protected Species

Historic/specimen designations emphasize native hardwoods including live oak and bald cypress.

Heritage / Landmark Trees

Historic and specimen designations per Chapter 60 apply to designated large native species (live oak, bald cypress, and others); removal requires demonstrated hardship or hazard with enhanced mitigation.

Permit Requirements

Tree Removal Permit required for protected trees. Development sites require tree survey and preservation plan. Hurricane-damaged trees with arborist hazard certification may qualify for expedited removal under FL Statute 163.045.

Who can apply: Property owner, authorized agent, or licensed tree service

Required Report Sections

Tree survey with species, DBH, condition, removal justification, site plan, and replacement/mitigation plan

Replacement Requirements

Inch-for-inch replacement with native or approved species; enhanced mitigation for specimen trees

On-site replacement preferred; in-lieu fees to Tree Trust Fund when infeasible.

Fees & Fines

Permit fee
$45.00

Permit fee plus mitigation-in-lieu where applicable.

Processing Time

2-4 weeks

Required Certifications

ISA Certified Arborist

Municipal Code

Orlando City Code Chapter 60 (Tree Protection)

View full ordinance

Contact

Economic Development / Permitting Services / Urban Forestry

(407) 246-2269

Other Florida cities

Cape Coral Daytona Beach Hialeah Jacksonville Naples Pensacola Sarasota Tampa
See all Florida cities →

Compare with nearby cities

Data last verified: April 2026. This information is provided as a reference. Always verify requirements directly with Orlando before submitting permits or reports.

Ready to apply? How to apply for a permit in Orlando →

See Florida permit fees compared: How Orlando's $45.00 fee ranks in Florida →

See Florida replacement obligations compared: How Orlando's replacement ratio ranks in Florida →

See Florida heritage criteria compared: How Orlando's heritage designation ranks in Florida →

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