Could you remove oak tree in Florida?

Question

There are two big oaks trees right next to a property I am looking at. It needs to be removed. But I read online that oak trees are protected in Florida and you can not cut them. Is this true?

Thanks,

Gin

Doug Smith · Answer

Nope...Tampa is really, really strict on cutting back branches. His question was specific to Tampa, which was why I chimed in. We actually have a new build in South Tampa in process. There is an oak that is 10" in diameter on the NEIGHBOR'S property that they are requiring us to do a root tracing study on. Other areas might not be as strict, but they are in Tampa.

Peter Walther · Answer

If you think the tree is on the property next to the one you're looking at, I think you probably need to talk to that owner about his/her plans for dealing with the tree.

Anthony Maiello · Answer

While I agree you should have certified arborist remove, I haven’t had complaints about removing branches. I suspect Doug’s reference to the harassment over the cut branch was related to the proximity to the power lines.

i had an oak where the roots were starting to impact the foundation of the property. I had an arborist remove it, cost about 2k in 2020. No repercussions from the city. He simply stated on the permit that it was damaging the dwelling.

Doug Smith · Answer

Hi Gin, I wouldn't touch it in Tampa...not even cutting a branch...without calling the city. I've had my nightmares with the City of Tampa and Hillsborough County over oak trees. The State of Florida did make it a bit easier to have trees removed if you engage a certified arborist, but that act from the legislature ticked off a lot of municipalities who didn't appreciate the perceived infringement on their domain, so they still will battle you on it. I have one customer that called the power company about a limb that was threatening a power line after a storm. When they didn't respond, he cut it himself and promptly got fined by the City of Tampa. I don't have a referral for an arborist for you, but if you can get a certified arborist to sign off on it, there is a process by which the tree(s) can be removed. I would start there before starting the permitting process. It can cost you between $2K-$3K (or more) per tree to remove one. Be really, really careful.

Carlos Ptriawan · Answer

you can always cut the branch