Do you need a tree removal permit in Gainesville, FL?

For some trees. Gainesville requires a permit for certain trees or certain sites, not every tree. Gainesville regulates trees by species, size and location, and permits are free. At an existing single-family home, only Heritage Trees (generally larger than 20 inches in diameter) need a permit. Each regulated tree removed needs mitigation, such as a replacement tree. Our confidence: high. Short explanation, not legal advice.

On existing detached single-family lots, only Heritage Trees are regulated. Trees become Heritage Trees above 20 inches in diameter at 4.5 feet, except Water Oak, Laurel Oak, Sweetgum, Slash Pine and Loblolly Pine, which become Heritage Trees at 30 inches. High Quality species (such as Live Oak, Southern Magnolia, Longleaf Pine, Bald Cypress and Pecan) are regulated anywhere on the lot; other Heritage Trees are regulated in the legal setback. In a planned development, trees in the approved landscape plan may be regulated at any size. Other land uses have their own rules.

Report fallen trees in the road, right-of-way or on utility lines to Public Works at 352-334-5070.

Florida Statute 163.045 bars the city from requiring a permit or mitigation for a tree on residential property when an ISA-certified arborist or Florida-licensed landscape architect documents that it poses an unacceptable risk. The city asks you to call its office first.

Fill in the Tree Removal Permit form and email it to Urban Forestry at urbanforestry@gainesvillefl.gov, or call 352-393-8171. There is no permit application fee.

HOA rules can be stricter; check yours. Read your HOA covenants or ask the board before work starts.

Your address, the tree species if you know it, the trunk width measured about 4.5 feet above the ground, photos of the whole tree, and whether it is near the street, a sidewalk or a power line. Ask if a permit is needed and how long it takes.

Some do and some do not. Ask before you sign, and get it in writing who applies and who pays the fee. In many places the property owner is the one responsible for following the rules.

No. It is a short, plain summary of public rules with links to the official sources. For a firm answer on your property, ask the city or a local attorney.

We last checked it on 26 October 2026 against the official sources listed on this page. City rules change, so check the official source or call the city before work starts.