Do I Need a Permit to Remove a Tree in Hernando or Citrus County, FL?

In unincorporated Hernando County, including Spring Hill, you need a county permit to remove a protected "specimen" tree (18 inches or more in trunk diameter) or "majestic" tree (36 inches or more). Sand pines and palms are excluded. Smaller trees on a residential lot generally do not need a county permit. Florida law also lets homeowners remove a dangerous tree without a local permit if a certified arborist documents the risk.

Rules depend on exactly where you live, so use this page as a starting point and confirm with the county or city before removing a large tree. E.J.R Tree Service LLC works throughout Hernando, Citrus and Pasco counties and can help you figure out what applies before we start. Call (352) 777-1013.

Hernando County (including Spring Hill)

• Specimen trees: 18 inches or greater in diameter, measured at breast height (about 4.5 feet off the ground).
• Majestic trees: 36 inches or greater in diameter at breast height.
• Excluded: sand pines and palms.
• Hazard or damage: the county may approve removal of a protected tree that is an immediate safety hazard or is causing property damage.
• Penalties: removing a protected tree without approval can bring fines and a requirement to plant replacement trees.

Spring Hill is unincorporated, so it follows Hernando County rules. The City of Brooksville has its own rules for properties inside city limits. Hernando County has also been working on an update to its tree and landscaping code, so check with the county's Planning and Zoning office for the latest requirements.

Citrus County

Citrus County protects trees through its land development code and has stepped up enforcement, especially for clearing on vacant lots and during construction. If you are clearing land or building, contact Citrus County Growth Management before any trees come down. For a single dangerous tree at an existing home, the state law below may apply.

Florida's dangerous tree law (F.S. 163.045)

Under Florida Statute 163.045, a city or county cannot require a permit, fee or replacement tree for pruning, trimming or removing a tree on residential property when the owner has documentation that the tree poses an unacceptable risk to people or property. The key details:

• It applies to a single-family, detached home on a lot used as a residence.
• The documentation must be an on-site tree risk assessment signed by an ISA-certified arborist or a Florida licensed landscape architect.
• The tree must pose an unacceptable risk, meaning removal is the only practical way to bring the risk down below moderate.
• Keep the signed assessment on file in case the county or city asks for it.

HOAs are separate

Even when no government permit is needed, many homeowners associations require approval before you remove a tree. Check your HOA rules before scheduling the work.

Tree permit FAQ

Do I need a permit to trim a tree?

Routine trimming of a tree on your own residential lot generally does not need a permit, as long as the tree is not being cut so heavily that it is effectively removed.

Do I need a permit to remove a palm tree in Hernando County?

Palms are excluded from Hernando County's specimen and majestic tree rules.

Do I need a permit to remove a dead tree?

A dead or dying tree that threatens your home is often the clearest case for the hazard exemption. If it is a large protected tree, get it documented or check with the county first.

How do I measure my tree?

Wrap a tape measure around the trunk about 4.5 feet off the ground and divide by 3.14. A trunk that measures about 57 inches around is roughly 18 inches in diameter.

This page is general information, not legal advice. Local rules change, so confirm with the county, city or your HOA before removing a large tree.