Habitat Permit & Environmental Compliance

Residential Tree Removal FAQs

These guidelines help residents of unincorporated Pinellas County and certain municipalities understand the permits, fees, and steps required to remove trees. They do not list every exception or cover every situation. For questions about your specific property, please contact the Tree Desk at (727) 464-3480 or email treepermit@pinellas.gov.

Do I need a permit from Pinellas County to remove a tree or trees?

Yes, in most cases a permit is required. Under Section 138-3654 of the Pinellas County Land Development Code, the following trees are protected and generally require a permit for removal:

· Healthy trees with a trunk diameter of 4 inches or greater, measured at breast height (DBH)

· Palms that are 6 feet in height or taller

· All mangrove and buttonwood trees

Specific permit requirements and fees depend on the tree type and location. Removal of healthy trees may also require mitigation, such as planting replacement trees, contributing to the Tree Bank Fund, or both.

Common permit types include:

· Trees located in the public right-of-way require a Utilization Permit

· Trees on private property in unincorporated areas require a Tree Removal/Habitat Permit

· Dead trees require a Tree Removal/Habitat Permit

· Invasive trees require a no-cost Tree Removal/Habitat Permit

 How do I apply for a permit?

Step-by-step instructions for applying are available on the Tree Permit page on the Pinellas County website. Applications are submitted through the Accela permitting system.

What does a tree removal permit cost?

Current permit fees are established in the annual operating budget adopted by the Board of County Commissioners. Additional mitigation costs may apply depending on the tree being removed.

For a general estimate, contact treepermit@pinellas.gov and include your property address, the size and approximate location of the tree, and the reason for removal.

How long does the permit application process take?

Once a complete application is received, staff typically conduct an initial site inspection within one to two business days.

Please ensure the site is accessible, pets are secured, and trees proposed for removal are clearly marked. If additional information or mitigation is required, you will receive an email through the Accela system outlining next steps.

How can I check the status of my permit or get a copy of the permit?

Visit pinellas.gov/access-portal to check the status of your permit. Regular updates are provided via email. The contact on your application will receive a copy of the permit via email once it is approved. Please check your SPAM or JUNK folder.  Additionally, a search by address can be conducted with or without an account on the portal.

Will the County inspect my tree before I apply?

No. County staff do not perform site visits to determine whether a permit is required prior to application.

Can I apply for own tree removal permit?

Yes. Property owners may apply for their own tree removal permits. A certified arborist is not required, although you may choose to hire one.

What if I am not comfortable completing the application myself?

You may authorize a tree service or contractor to apply on your behalf. The application package includes an authorization form that must be signed by the property owner and authorized party.

Many tree service companies are familiar with the permitting process and routinely assist customers.

Do I need a permit to trim or prune my trees?

No permit is required for routine tree trimming or pruning. However, pruning should follow ANSI A300 standards to avoid compliance issues caused by excessive pruning or effective removal of protected trees.

Mangroves are regulated by the Pinellas County Division of Environmental Management through delegation of the Mangrove Trimming and Preservation Act from the State of Florida. Visit the mangrove trimming page for more information.

How do I verify if a tree was removed with a permit?

In most cases, you can verify whether or not a tree was removed with a permit through the Pinellas County Access Portal by searching the property address. An account is not required.

What happens if I remove or cut down my tree without a permit?

Removing a protected tree without the required permit may result in code enforcement action. This may include an after-the-fact permit, mitigation requirements, and/or penalties as provided by Pinellas County Code.

Can the County recommend a tree service?

Pinellas County cannot recommend specific tree service companies. However, you may find certified arborists in your area by visiting treesaregood.org.

Landscaping Requirements

Subject to existing and proposed conditions, replanting with trees may be required on all properties. Landscaping may be required for proposed development on non-residential and multifamily properties as noted below:

• Approved Tree Species to Replant
• Landscape regulations and required maintenance (Sec. 138-3651) 
• Non-residential and multi-family landscaping (Sec. 138-3659) – Including parking lot landscaping, stormwater ponds, fencing, etc.  
• Residential landscaping (Sec. 138-3658) – Including minimum number of trees per lot 
• Street trees (Sec. 138-3657) – All tree installation and removal within the public right-of-way requires county approval. The provisions of this section apply to the installation, maintenance, and removal of trees in the public right-of-way.
• Vegetation installation and maintenance (Sec. 166-56)

Habitat Protection Requirements for Proposed Site Development

All trees 4 inches diameter at breast height (DBH) or greater, or any vegetation within wetland and/or upland buffer areas require a permit for removal or require protection during development.

Below are additional requirements for any proposed site development.

• Vegetation protection during construction (Sec. 166-49) 
• Upland buffer adjacent to wetlands (Sec. 166-50) 
• Protection of endangered, threatened or species of special concern (Sec. 166-52)