A special permit to remove or trim a tree may be required by your local government or homeowner's association. An overview of some of the local ordinances can be found here on our website. This information is current as of February 2020 and is intended to be an informational summary only. Please be sure to consult with the proper governing authorities for the most current information prior to having work performed on your property.

On July 1, 2019, House Bill 1159 went into effect. This new law prohibits a local government from requiring a notice, application, approval, permit, fee, or mitigation for the pruning, trimming, or removal of a tree on residential property if the tree presents a danger to persons or property, as documented by a certified arborist or licensed landscape architect. It is important to note that this law does not prevent homeowner associations from requiring an architectural review or planting of replacement trees.

Click Here To View CS/HB 1159

We are very familiar with all of the various rules throughout Sarasota County and are happy to help you navigate through any necessary permitting or certified arborist documentation requirements. Keep in mind, the majority of properties in Sarasota County are exempt from permitting requirements, so before you worry about that, just give us a call for a brief phone consultation to quickly get the answers you need.