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

A 5-step walkthrough drawn from Fort Myers'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. Historic and specimen trees receive enhanced protection. Mangrove removal separately regulated by state rule under FL Statute 403.9321-9333. Heritage / landmark designation: Specimen and historic designations apply at enhanced DBH thresholds for designated native species; removal requires demonstrated hardship or hazard.

  2. 2

    Determine who must apply

    Eligible applicants in Fort Myers: 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 Community Development. Typical processing time: 2-4 weeks. Reference the full ordinance at https://www.cityftmyers.com/.

    View the full Fort Myers ordinance

  5. 5

    Plan for replacement obligations

    Replacement ratio: Inch-for-inch replacement with approved species; enhanced mitigation for specimen trees. On-site replacement preferred with approved native or Florida-friendly species; tree trust fund in-lieu fees accepted when on-site replacement is infeasible.

Where to file

Community Development

(239) 321-7950

Other Florida permit walkthroughs

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

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

Compare with nearby cities

Need an arborist report for your Fort Myers permit?

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

Start a TRAQ assessment