Mayor Castor is serious about protecting Tampa's tree canopy
September 21, 2022

September 21, 2022

above: Famartin, CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons


Tampa's Mayor, Jane Castor, couldn't have put it more succinctly when she declared, "Trees are an essential element of a community's health and of a resident's health as well." Her commitment to preserving Tampa's tree canopy is resolute, and the city has implemented stringent regulations to ensure this vital resource remains intact. Here, we'll delve into the measures Tampa has taken to safeguard its trees and the importance of understanding the rules and regulations governing tree care.


Protecting Tampa's Tree Canopy: Hefty Fines and Regulations

Mayor Castor's dedication to Tampa's tree canopy is evident in the strict enforcement of tree care regulations. Residents and tree removal companies in the city are subject to substantial fines if they fail to adhere to these rules. This commitment to tree preservation reflects the understanding that trees contribute not only to the city's aesthetics but also to the well-being of its residents.


The Challenge of Tree Regulation: A Statewide Perspective

In June of 2019, Governor Ron DeSantis enacted a law that posed a challenge to Tampa's tree preservation efforts. The law essentially prohibited cities from regulating tree removal, replanting, pruning, or trimming on residential property when a licensed arborist determined that the trees posed a danger. This added a layer of complexity to the city's tree regulations, creating questions about how this law applied to Tampa's specific needs.


One notable incident in 2019 underscored the complexities of these regulations. A company, armed with a licensed arborist's assessment, felled 28 trees at a former mobile home park on Gandy Blvd. The city responded by imposing a staggering fine of $234,427.50. In September 2022, a Hillsborough County judge upheld this substantial penalty. The heart of the lawsuit revolved around the definition of "residential property" and the challenge of reconciling conflicting assessments by arborists.


Education and Compliance: Tampa's Approach

To navigate the intricacies of tree regulations in Tampa, Mayor Castor's administration has embarked on a mission to educate the community, businesses, and developers. The goal is to emphasize not only the significance of the city's tree canopy but also the rules governing tree care, permits, and the preservation of these valuable assets.


Trust the Experts: Mid Florida Tree Service, Inc.

Regardless of which local authority holds jurisdiction over the trees on your property, it's essential to work with a tree care company that understands the nuances of Tampa's regulations. Mid Florida Tree Service, Inc., a company with roots dating back to 1976 and an owner who grew up in the business, is the trusted choice for Tampa residents.

Mid Florida Tree Service, Inc. boasts licensed arborists on staff and a dedicated team of experienced professionals. They possess the expertise to determine which trees can be safely removed and can provide the necessary documentation if your municipality, whether it's the city, county, or the State of Florida, requires it.



In conclusion, Tampa's commitment to preserving its tree canopy is unwavering, and Mayor Castor's administration is taking proactive steps to educate the community about tree care regulations. To navigate this landscape successfully, residents and property owners should turn to trusted experts like Mid Florida Tree Service, Inc. for their tree care needs.


When you need to have trees removed, please call Mid Florida Tree Service, Inc. at (813) 588-0315.



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