Port St. Lucie Tree Removal Permit & Ordinance Guide
St. Lucie County, Florida
Protected Tree Definition
Protected tree: 4 inches DBH or greater measured 4.5 feet above grade. Historic/specimen trees designated by the city receive enhanced protection, including designated live oaks and large native canopy species.
Protected Species
Heritage / Landmark Trees
Specimen and historic designations apply at enhanced thresholds for native species; removal requires demonstrated hardship, hazard, or approved development with mitigation.
Permit Requirements
Tree Removal Permit required for protected trees. Development sites require tree 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 approved native or Florida-friendly species; enhanced mitigation for specimen trees
On-site replacement preferred. In-lieu fees accepted to the city tree mitigation fund where on-site replacement is infeasible.
Fees & Fines
Processing Time
2-4 weeks
Required Certifications
ISA Certified Arborist
Municipal Code
Port St. Lucie Code of Ordinances Chapter 151 (Tree Preservation and Landscaping)
View full ordinanceContact
Planning and Zoning / Environmental Services
(772) 871-5212
Other Florida cities
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Data last verified: April 2026. This information is provided as a reference. Always verify requirements directly with Port St. Lucie before submitting permits or reports.
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