Do you need a tree removal permit in Panama City, FL?

For some trees. Panama City requires a permit for certain trees or certain sites, not every tree. Panama City protects some trees under its Unified Land Development Code. Clearing unprotected trees does not need a development order, but protected trees and their roots may not be cut, removed or damaged during clearing. The city runs a tree removal permit through its Planning & Zoning Division. Our confidence: medium. Short explanation, not legal advice.

The city's guide says the Unified Land Development Code (ULDC) separates protected trees from unprotected trees, and Chapter 105 of the ULDC requires a protective barrier around protected trees during clearing. The guides we opened do not list which species or sizes count as protected; check ULDC Chapter 105 or call Planning & Zoning.

Apply to the Development Services Department, Planning & Zoning Division (City Hall, 501 Harrison Avenue, Panama City; 850-872-3025; planning@panamacity.gov). All applications and fees must be sent through the department's online application portal; email submissions are not accepted. The guide (revised January 3, 2025) lists a $10 fee, says to mark the trees with tape or string and show them on a site plan, says the inspection may take 7-10 business days, and says the permit expires six months after approval. The city forms include a notary block for the owner certification, and a notarized owner signature is required when an agent applies for the owner.

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.

Yes, they can. County rules, state rules for things like wetlands or protected species, and utility rules near power lines can apply on top of city rules. If your property is outside city limits, the county rules usually apply instead. Ask the city or county office.

No. Lirevon is a remote marketing team for tree service companies. We do not do tree work and we do not list or rank tree companies. To find a local insured pro, search Google Maps, read their reviews and get two or three written quotes.