How to apply for a tree removal permit in Hollywood, Florida

A 5-step walkthrough drawn from Hollywood'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 tree designations apply to designated native species. Broward County tree preservation standards (Chapter 27) also apply. Heritage / landmark designation: Specimen 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 Hollywood: 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 Development Services. Typical processing time: 2-4 weeks. Reference the full ordinance at https://www.hollywoodfl.org/.

    View the full Hollywood 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. Tree Trust Fund accepts in-lieu fees when on-site replacement is infeasible.

Where to file

Development Services

(954) 921-3471

Other Florida permit walkthroughs

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

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

Compare with nearby cities

Need an arborist report for your Hollywood permit?

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

Start a TRAQ assessment