County simplifies tree-permitting ordinance
Pinellas County has updated its tree permitting ordinance to simplify the permitting process and provide more flexibility. These changes, found in Chapter 58 of the County Code, went into effect on Jan. 23, 2026.
These rules apply to unincorporated Pinellas County, Belleair Bluffs and Belleair Shore. They are not retroactive and do not qualify past payments for refunds.
Key changes include:
- Permit Basics: For many properties, property owners need a permit to remove trees with trunks four or more inches wide or palms over six feet tall.
- Homeowner Protections: On homesteaded[KM1] [ST2] , single-family residential lots, trees more than 24 inches in diameter require a permit for tree removal. Trees within the right-of-way require a Utilization Permit. Check the Property Appraiser Map to see if a tree is in the right-of-way.
- Better Mitigation: Rather than calculating replacement needs based strictly on tree size, the new rules use a straightforward rating system that considers the health and type of tree being removed. In most cases, the required tree replants are reduced from the prior code making it easier to achieve the required tree plantings rather than the payment-in-lieu option.
- Native Plants: Homeowners get extra credit for planting native trees and shrubs such as Live Oak, Slash Pines and Beautyberry that support local wildlife.
A healthy urban tree canopy cools neighborhoods, manages stormwater, cleans the air and beautifies the community.
Before removing any tree, property owners should check with the County to see if a permit is required. They may confirm requirements by sending a photo of the tree and property address to treepermits@pinellas.gov. For more details, visit pinellas.gov/treecode.