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1. What is a Protected Tree?

A Protected Tree is a tree that has a diameter of at least twelve inches or is a live oak or sand live oak with a diameter of at least six inches.  

2. What is a Heritage Tree?

A Heritage Tree is a healthy, Protected Tree and has a root system with a diameter at breast height equal to or greater than 30 inches or a live oak tree with a diameter at breast height equal to or greater than twenty-four inches.   

3. What do I need to submit in order to remove a Protected Tree?

An application for a Tree Removal Permit and a Tree Protection Plan must be submitted to the Planning and Zoning Department.  

4. When is a Tree Removal Permit needed?

A Tree Removal Permit is required when a property owner wishes to remove a Protected Tree.

5. How much does it cost to apply for a Tree Removal Permit?

The application fee is $25. Upon approval of the permit, a $250 fee is required.

6. What is a Tree Protection Plan?

A Tree Protection Plan identifies preservation methods for Protected Trees and provides a Tree Replacement and Remediation Plan for Protected Trees that are requested to be removed. A Tree Protection Plan must be submitted in order to be granted a Tree Removal Permit.  

7. What are the replacement and remediation requirements for removing a Protected Tree?

When not specifically exempted from tree replacement and remediation, each Protected Tree that is permitted for removal must be replaced with a new tree or trees having a total tree diameter equivalent to that of the diameter of the tree or trees removed.  Replacement trees must be a minimum of three inches in diameter and twelve feet in height at the time of planting.  

8. What if there is a protected tree located on my lot where I plan to build my house?

With a Tree Removal Permit, protected trees may be removed within ten feet of the footprint of the principal residential structures, or within the immediate footprint of site improvements (including but not limited to the garage, carport, driveway, and swimming pool) without replacement or remediation.

When a heritage tree is present on the lot, this exemption is limited to the footprint of the principal building, not accessory structures, unless protection of the heritage tree denies or precludes reasonable use of the property.