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

A 5-step walkthrough drawn from Orlando'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/specimen trees (large live oak, bald cypress, and designated specimens) receive enhanced protection. Heritage / landmark designation: Historic and specimen designations per Chapter 60 apply to designated large native species (live oak, bald cypress, and others); removal requires demonstrated hardship or hazard with enhanced mitigation.

  2. 2

    Determine who must apply

    Eligible applicants in Orlando: 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 Economic Development / Permitting Services / Urban Forestry. Permit fee: $45.00. Typical processing time: 2-4 weeks. Reference the full ordinance at https://www.orlando.gov/Building-Development/Building-Permitting-Inspections/Trees-Landscaping.

    View the full Orlando ordinance

  5. 5

    Plan for replacement obligations

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

Where to file

Economic Development / Permitting Services / Urban Forestry

(407) 246-2269

Other Florida permit walkthroughs

See Florida permit fees compared — Orlando's $45.00 fee in context.

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

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

Compare with nearby cities

Need an arborist report for your Orlando permit?

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

Start a TRAQ assessment