Tampa is the third largest city in Florida and sits at the mouth of the Hillsborough River. The Tampa Bay area is home to around 3.2 million people.

Because of it's warm climate, world class beaches and successful sports teams as well as cultural activities and theme parks, Tampa is a popular destination for new Floridians as well as visiting tourists.

Like other cities, Tampa’s 'urban forest' is a significant part of its beauty. Trees are not only important to the aesthetics of the city, but help to remove airborne pollutants and prevent soil erosion. Tampa residents, their guests and other visitors can enjoy tree filled areas in parks and nature preserves. The trees are home for much of the city's wildlife and also add to the overall landscape, adding to the economics of our city. Treepedia declared Tampa number 1 among the top tree cities in the world with a 36.1% green view index.

With a reputation like this, Tampa puts a high value in preserving its trees and overall landscaping. The City of Tampa has regulations in place that cover the tree service industry and property owners who do their own work. Mayor Castor has proven the city's resolve in enforcing those regulations, fining one company $234,427.50 for cutting down 28 trees on a former mobile home park.  Below are some of the Tree Removal Regulations in Tampa.

The state of Florida has put some restrictions on what the city is actually allowed to enforce, but making a mistake, as mentioned above, can be very costly.
Grand trees are most strictly regulated. A tree whose trunk is at least 34 inches in diameter may be classified as a "Grand Tree". "Grand Tree" removal is only permitted under specific conditions. The City of Tampa will have to determine if a grand tree meets the conditions for removal. Once initiated, a 14 day stay is mandated with a notice procedure which is required to be completed before the permit is issued. Mid Florida Tree Service works with the city for you when contracted, and is well versed with this complex process. The special protection for Grand Trees also applies to pruning and trimming. We will send an on staff ISA Certified Arborist to determine if your tree is a "Grand Tree" and request the required pruning permit if it is, and the conditions allow it to be pruned or removed.

Cypress & mangrove trees in Tampa always require a permit, regardless of the age or size of the tree. For other protected trees, a permit is required if the trunk is 5" or more in diameter. The City of Tampa issues severe penalties (in the range of $15,000) for removing protected trees without the proper permit.

There are some trees in the Tampa city limits that require no permit to remove. Currently these are: Male Mulberry, Citrus (all Types), Earleaf Acacia, Ear Tree, Monkey Puzzle, Rosewood, Australian Pine, Carrotwood, Wild Cherry, Eucalyptus Tree, Brazilian Pepper, Lead Tree, Surinam Cherry, Queen Palm, Cherry Laurel, Silk Oak Tree, Golden Rain Tree, Queensland Umbrella Tree, Chinese Tallow, Mimosa, Punk Tree and Chinaberry.

Let our skilled and experienced staff handle it from evaluating the situation, dealing with the city’s rules and regulations, getting the proper permits and documentation to the care or removal of your tree. We’re here for you!