Tampa Tree Removal Permit & Ordinance Guide

Hillsborough County, Florida

Verified

Protected Tree Definition

5.0" DBH minimum for protection

Protected tree: any tree 5 inches DBH or greater measured 4.5 feet above grade. Grand tree: 34 inches DBH or greater, or specified heritage species at lower thresholds. Public trees regulated regardless of size.

Protected Species

Grand tree designations emphasize live oak bald cypress and mahogany. Mangroves separately regulated under state rule.

Heritage / Landmark Trees

Grand tree designations per Chapter 13: 34 inches DBH or greater (or specified heritage species — live oak, bald cypress, mahogany — at lower thresholds) receive heightened protection; removal requires demonstrated hardship or hazard with enhanced mitigation.

Permit Requirements

Tree Removal Permit required for protected or grand trees. Development plans require tree survey and preservation analysis.

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

Required Report Sections

Tree inventory, species, DBH, condition, removal justification, replacement plan

Replacement Requirements

Inch-for-inch replacement; enhanced ratios for grand trees

On-site replacement with approved native or Florida-friendly species; tree fund fees accepted in lieu.

Fees & Fines

Permit fee
$35.00

Application and inspection fees plus mitigation as calculated.

Processing Time

2-3 weeks

Required Certifications

ISA Certified Arborist

Municipal Code

Tampa Code of Ordinances Chapter 13 (Natural Resources and Vegetation)

View full ordinance

Contact

Parks and Recreation / Urban Forestry

(813) 274-8615

urbanforestry@tampagov.net

Other Florida cities

Boca Raton Coral Springs Fort Myers Kissimmee Miramar Orlando Pembroke Pines Port St. Lucie
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 Tampa before submitting permits or reports.

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

See Florida permit fees compared: How Tampa's $35.00 fee ranks in Florida →

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

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

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