Over recent years, there have been changes to the rules regarding what Florida homeowners can do with trees on their property.
In the past, when regulations required a tree removal permit, Floria homeowners were in constant doubt as to whether or not they could remove dangerous plants from their property without getting in legal trouble.
A 2019 law has made moves to stop this confusion.
Now, homeowners have much more control over whether or not those overgrown trees come down or not. Tree removal in St. Augustine, FL, is our area of expertise – so we’ve done the research and collated everything you need to know about Florida tree removal. Read on to find out exactly what’s changed.
Do You Need a Tree Removal Permit, Florida Homeowners?
The 2019 state law has put a stopper on government intervention when it comes to regulations on private property tree removal. There is no longer a requirement to get a permit or permit application from the local municipality.
Fees have also been waived, meaning there are no longer unnecessary fees attached to tree removal.
These developments have offered homeowners much more freedom when it comes to cutting back, pruning, or removing trees from their private property. But it’s important to note that homeowners still don’t have free range to its fullest extent.
Under the new legislation, homeowners must obtain a document issued by a certified arborist in order to legally remove trees from their property.
For the document to stand, the person providing it must be certified by the International Society of Arboriculture. Alternatively, they can be a landscape architect licensed in Florida.
Homeowners need a suitable reason for cutting down a tree.
The document issued by the expert must state that the tree is hazardous and be supported by an appropriate risk assessment. If a tree poses a threat to people or property, the professional must declare as much and give permission for it to be removed.
New regulations also remove the requirement to re-plant removed trees.
Though it is now much simpler for a homeowner to remove a dangerous tree from their premises, a permit is still required to remove healthy trees that pose no threat. This is the case until the area becomes exempt under the Land Development Code.
What Makes a Tree Dangerous?
The most common signs of a tree becoming a danger to your household shouldn’t be too hard to spot. But if left too late, they can cause irrevocable damage to your property. Here are some key warning signs to look out for:
- Broken Branches
- Extreme Lean
- Hollow or Dead Trees
- Damaged Roots
- Too Close to the House
If your tree starts showing any of these signs, it’s time to get in touch with a tree service in St. Augustine, FL. A good company can provide a range of services. Whether it’s tree trimming, tree pruning, or stump grinding that you need, a group of trained experts in tree removal can help you.
Protect Your Home From Dangerous Trees
Though you don’t need a tree removal permit, Florida law still requires that you work with trained experts to remove trees that pose a threat. Our company can provide emergency tree service and can protect your home from further danger with services like storm and hurricane proofing.
If you’re looking to get that dangerous tree removed from your property, there’s no time to lose.
Get in touch with us today to organize the safe removal of dangerous trees. You can contact our experts through our website to get those garden worries taken care of.
Leave A Comment