How to apply for a tree removal permit in Fort Lauderdale, Florida

A 5-step walkthrough drawn from Fort Lauderdale's tree-protection ordinance. For the underlying DBH thresholds, protected-species list, and full fee schedule, see the city ordinance page.

Expected processing time: 2-4 weeks. Plan removal timing accordingly — emergency-tree provisions may differ.

  1. 1

    Determine if your tree is regulated

    Trees at or above 4" DBH (diameter at breast height) are regulated. Protected tree: 4 inches DBH or greater measured 4.5 feet above grade. Specimen/historic tree designations apply to designated large and native species. Heritage / landmark designation: Specimen and historic designations per Section 47-21 apply to designated large native species (live oak, mahogany, gumbo limbo, and others) at enhanced DBH thresholds; removal requires demonstrated hardship or hazard with enhanced mitigation. Broward County Code Chapter 27 standards also apply.

  2. 2

    Determine who must apply

    Eligible applicants in Fort Lauderdale: Property owner, authorized agent, or licensed tree service.

  3. 3

    Prepare your assessment report

    Your assessment report must include: Tree survey with species, DBH, condition, removal justification, site plan, and replacement/mitigation plan. Required certifications: ISA Certified Arborist.

  4. 4

    Submit to the permitting department

    Submit your application and assessment report to Sustainable Development / Urban Design and Planning. Permit fee: $50.00. Typical processing time: 2-4 weeks. Reference the full ordinance at https://www.fortlauderdale.gov/departments/sustainable-development.

    View the full Fort Lauderdale ordinance

  5. 5

    Plan for replacement obligations

    Replacement ratio: Inch-for-inch replacement; enhanced mitigation for specimen trees. On-site replacement with approved native species; Tree Trust Fund accepts in-lieu fees.

Where to file

Sustainable Development / Urban Design and Planning

(954) 828-6520

Other Florida permit walkthroughs

See Florida permit fees compared — Fort Lauderdale's $50.00 fee in context.

See Florida replacement obligations compared — how Fort Lauderdale's replacement ratio ranks against the rest of the state.

See Florida heritage criteria compared — how Fort Lauderdale's designation rules stack against the rest of the state.

Compare with nearby cities

Need an arborist report for your Fort Lauderdale permit?

Capture an ISA TRAQ Level 1, 2, or 3 assessment in the field and export a municipality-ready PDF that fits Fort Lauderdale's required report sections. Free, no account required.

Start a TRAQ assessment