***This guide refers to residential tree removal for existing homes only.***
A tree removal permit is required for ALL native and non-native trees on the Charlotte County List of Approved Tree Species if:
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The tree has a caliper* of 4" or greater; or
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A palm has a clear trunk 6' or greater.
*"Caliper" is the diameter of the trunk measured 12" from grade.
Tree removal authorization may be granted by the County if:
- Trees pose a safety hazard to pedestrian or vehicular traffic or cause disruption to public utility services.
- Trees pose a safety hazard to buildings or structures which cannot be remedied by trimming.
- Trees completely prevent access or cross access to a lot or parcel.
- Trees prevent development or physical use of the property. An effort to design or locate a proposed structure to minimize tree removal must be demonstrated.
- Diseased trees or trees so weakened by age, storm, fire or other injury so as to pose a danger to persons, property, improvements or other trees.
The following categories are exempt from tree removal authorization requirements and fees:
- Tree has less than a 4" caliper or palm has less than 6' of clear trunk.
- Dead trees.
- Trees listed as Category I or II on the most recent edition of the Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council's List of Invasive Plant Species, or listed on the Charlotte County List of Prohibited Plants.
Heritage trees may NOT be removed or damaged unless:
- The tree is in advanced stages of decline. (A determination from a certified arborist may be required.)
- The tree is located where a structure or improvement allowed as a permitted principal use under zoning regulations is to be located and the applicant has made every effort to accommodate the heritage tree within the design of the structure or improvement.
- The tree is causing substantial structural or infrastructural damage, to be determined by a qualified engineer of record. The applicant must demonstrate that alternative remedies such as root barriers or trimming are not feasible.
If a heritage tree is removed, it must be replaced on a DBH inch for DBH inch basis. If that is not possible due to site conditions, a fee of $150 per DBH inch not replanted must be paid to the Native Tree Replacement Fund.
Charlotte County Tree Permit Application
Land Development Regulations Sec 3-9-100 Tree Requirements As Of April 2015
Note: It is unlawful in Charlotte County to 'top' or allow to be 'topped', or severely pruned, so as to appear stunted, any tree. Further, it us unlawful to climb any living tree, using the practice known as 'spiking' or 'spurring' unless the tree is being removed pursuant to a valid permit.
*The summary shown above is for informational purposes only. The county code changes frequently. Please contact Charlotte County at 941-743-1964 for the most current information. You can also view their website here: Charlotte County Government