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

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

Expected processing time: 3-6 weeks. Plan removal timing accordingly — emergency-tree provisions may differ.

  1. 1

    Determine if your tree is regulated

    Trees at or above 8" DBH (diameter at breast height) are regulated. Protected tree: 8 inches DBH or greater. Heritage/patriarch trees: live oak ≥27 inch DBH and designated species receive heightened protection. Leon County Environmental Management Act also applies city-wide. Heritage / landmark designation: Heritage and patriarch designations per the Tallahassee-Leon County Environmental Management Act and City Code Chapter 5 apply to live oak (Quercus virginiana) ≥27 inch DBH, southern magnolia, bald cypress, and other designated native hardwoods; removal requires demonstrated hardship or hazard with enhanced mitigation.

  2. 2

    Determine who must apply

    Eligible applicants in Tallahassee: Property owner, authorized agent, or licensed tree contractor.

  3. 3

    Prepare your assessment report

    Your assessment report must include: Tree survey with species, DBH, condition, disposition, and mitigation plan. Required certifications: ISA Certified Arborist.

  4. 4

    Submit to the permitting department

    Submit your application and assessment report to Growth Management / Environmental Services. Permit fee: $50.00. Typical processing time: 3-6 weeks. Reference the full ordinance at https://www.talgov.com/growth/environmental-services.

    View the full Tallahassee ordinance

  5. 5

    Plan for replacement obligations

    Replacement ratio: Inch-for-inch replacement; enhanced ratios for patriarch/heritage trees. On-site replacement with approved native species; payment to Tree Bank accepted in lieu.

Where to file

Growth Management / Environmental Services

(850) 891-7001

Other Florida permit walkthroughs

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

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

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

Compare with nearby cities

Need an arborist report for your Tallahassee permit?

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

Start a TRAQ assessment