Thinking about trimming or removing a tree at your Plantation home? The right move can protect your roof, improve curb appeal, and reduce storm risk, but the wrong step can lead to fines or required replanting. You want a clear plan that follows local rules and keeps your project on schedule. In this guide, you’ll learn when permits are required, how Florida’s hazardous-tree exemption works, what counts as a protected or specimen tree, how to hire the right pro, and how to prep for hurricane season. Let’s dive in.
Plantation tree rules at a glance
Plantation follows city rules, Broward County’s Tree Preservation rules, and Florida state law. The city requires permits for many trimming and removal jobs and references ANSI safety and pruning standards. You can find city contacts and permit guidance on the City of Plantation’s recovery resources page. Review the city’s guidance and contacts.
Broward County’s Tree Preservation and Abuse Ordinance defines protected and specimen trees, sets mitigation requirements, and outlines enforcement. See Broward’s ordinance overview.
Florida Statute 163.045 limits local authority in certain cases. With qualifying documentation from an ISA certified arborist or Florida licensed landscape architect, you may remove or prune a hazardous tree on residential property without a local permit or mitigation. Read the statute summary.
When you need a permit
City of Plantation permits
Plantation requires a Tree Trimming or Tree Removal Permit for many jobs. The city enforces the common industry limit of removing no more than 25% of a tree’s live crown in one operation and requires work to follow ANSI A300 pruning and ANSI Z133 safety standards. For minor pruning or routine maintenance, different rules may apply. Always confirm the permit need with the city before work begins. Start with the city’s permit resources.
Broward protected and specimen trees
Broward’s ordinance protects many trees and defines a “specimen tree,” generally larger trees that meet condition criteria. Removal of protected or specimen trees typically requires a permit and mitigation, such as replacement plantings or a fee. Expect stricter review and higher mitigation for large, healthy trees. Check definitions and mitigation basics.
State hazardous-tree exemption
If a tree on your residential property poses an unacceptable risk, Florida law allows removal or pruning without a local permit or fee when you have the required documentation. The documentation must be an on-site assessment signed by an ISA certified arborist or Florida licensed landscape architect following the Tree Risk Assessment Best Management Practices. Keep this report with your records in case questions arise. Review Florida Statute 163.045.
Avoid penalties and keep records
Removing a protected tree without the proper permit can lead to notices, required replanting, and fines. Both the city and county investigate alleged tree abuse and unpermitted removals. Protect yourself by keeping copies of permits, the arborist report, and photos of the tree before and after work. Learn how Broward enforces violations.
How to hire the right pro
Expect ANSI standards
Professional tree work should follow ANSI A300 pruning standards and ANSI Z133 safety rules. Ask your contractor to reference these standards in writing. See an overview of pruning to ANSI standards.
Credentials and insurance
For hazard assessments or complex work, hire an ISA certified arborist. Plantation’s environmental and landscape division encourages working with qualified professionals. Find city landscape resources.
Broward County’s former local tree trimmer licensing program has changed due to state preemption, so focus on proof of training, ISA credentials, liability insurance, and workers’ compensation. Check Broward’s licensing updates.
What to include in your contract
- A written scope naming each tree and the exact cuts or removal plan.
- A statement that work follows ANSI A300 and ANSI Z133.
- Proof of liability insurance and workers’ compensation.
- Who will obtain any required permits.
- The disposal plan, including chipping or drop-off.
- A firm price and timeline. Get contract best practices.
Best practices for Plantation yards
Pruning limits and timing
Avoid removing more than 25% of live crown in one visit, and do not top or hat-rack trees. Many structural pruning tasks are best handled in cooler months or outside the peak of hurricane season. Dead or hazardous limbs can be addressed any time. Confirm local guidance.
Palm care basics
For palms, remove only dead fronds and seedpods. Cutting green, healthy fronds can weaken the tree and increase risk in storms. If you are unsure, ask an ISA certified arborist to set a maintenance plan.
Hurricane season prep
From June through November, storms can put stress on weak branches. Reduce risk by removing deadwood, improving structure, and addressing weak attachments before peak season. After a storm, document damage with photos and seek an arborist’s assessment for any hazardous trees. See UF/IFAS hurricane prep tips.
Disposal and yard waste
Plan disposal before work begins. Plantation offers curbside guidelines and a Horticultural Recycling Center for residents. Make sure your contractor’s plan follows city rules. Review yard waste and drop-off rules.
Species choices and nuisance plants
Broward lists certain nuisance species, such as Brazilian pepper and Australian pine, that are commonly not protected. When you replant, choose wind-tough native or well-adapted species that suit South Florida conditions. Check county definitions.
Quick checklist before any tree work
- Photograph the tree and note its size and condition.
- Check if it might be protected or a specimen tree.
- If you suspect a hazard, hire an ISA certified arborist to produce the documentation required by statute.
- Confirm permit needs with the City of Plantation.
- Get two written estimates with ANSI language, proof of insurance, and a clear disposal plan.
Costs and timing
Costs vary by size, species, access, and equipment needs. Small trims can be a few hundred dollars while large removals can reach several thousand, especially if a crane or traffic control is needed. Permits, mitigation, and appraisals for specimen trees can add cost. Ask for an itemized estimate and timeline so you can plan around weather and bulk pickup windows. See a general cost overview.
Make tree work support your resale
Smart tree care protects your home and enhances curb appeal, which helps when you list. Just as important, permits and arborist reports create a clean paper trail that supports disclosure, appraisal, and buyer confidence. If you own an estate or acreage property, aligning tree work with your long-term landscape plan can add value while keeping you compliant.
Ready to align your tree decisions with your property goals in Plantation or greater South Broward? Reach out to the Tommy Crivello Real Estate Group for guidance on how landscape, compliance, and documentation can support your next move.
FAQs
Do I need a permit to remove a tree at my Plantation home?
- Often yes, but it depends on the tree and situation; confirm with the City of Plantation, and remember some hazardous trees on residential property may qualify for the state exemption with proper arborist documentation.
How does Florida’s hazardous-tree exemption work for Plantation homeowners?
- If an ISA certified arborist or Florida licensed landscape architect documents that a tree poses an unacceptable risk, you can remove or prune it on residential property without a local permit or mitigation; keep the signed report in your records.
What is a specimen tree in Broward County and why does it matter?
- A specimen tree is a larger tree that meets county condition criteria; removing one typically requires a permit and higher mitigation, such as replacement plantings or fees.
What should I ask a tree service before hiring in Plantation?
- Ask for ISA credentials, proof of insurance, references, a written ANSI A300 scope, clear permit responsibility, and a disposal plan that follows city yard-waste rules.
When is the best time to trim trees in South Florida?
- Many structural pruning tasks fit cooler months or outside the peak of hurricane season, while dead or hazardous limbs can be handled year-round.
How do I dispose of large yard debris from tree work in Plantation?
- Confirm curbside limits and use the city’s Horticultural Recycling Center for larger loads; make sure your contractor includes disposal in the scope.
Could unpermitted tree work affect my home sale or appraisal in Plantation?
- Yes; missing permits or mitigation can trigger questions during disclosure or appraisal, so keep your permits and arborist documentation to support a smooth sale.
