How to apply for a tree removal permit in West Palm Beach, Florida

A 5-step walkthrough drawn from West Palm Beach'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. Heritage / landmark designation: Historic and 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 West Palm Beach: 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 / Urban Forestry. Typical processing time: 2-4 weeks. Reference the full ordinance at https://www.wpb.org/government/development-services.

    View the full West Palm Beach ordinance

  5. 5

    Plan for replacement obligations

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

Where to file

Development Services / Urban Forestry

(561) 822-1400

Other Florida permit walkthroughs

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

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

Compare with nearby cities

Need an arborist report for your West Palm Beach permit?

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

Start a TRAQ assessment