Florida tree rules can feel confusing because there is not one “protected tree list” that applies everywhere. In most places, what you can and cannot cut depends on three layers.
- State laws that protect certain coastal and wetland plants, especially mangroves.
- County or city tree ordinances that protect specific species, sizes, or “heritage” trees.
- Property conditions that trigger extra rules. Think wetlands, conservation easements, protected shorelines, or HOA rules.
This guide explains how protected trees in Florida work. It also covers which trees often trigger permits. You will learn how to avoid costly mistakes.
Quick note. This is practical guidance, not legal advice. Tree laws change by city and county. If you feel unsure, call your local building department or environmental office before you cut.
The short answer: what trees are protected in Florida?
If you search “what trees are protected in Florida” or “what trees are illegal to cut down in Florida,” here is the truth.
Some trees are protected by state law. This happens when they are part of Florida’s shoreline and water protection systems. Mangroves are the main example.
Most “protected trees” are protected locally. Your city or county decides which trees need a permit. They also set penalties.
Many ordinances protect trees by species and size. The trunk diameter often matters. Large canopy trees like oaks often get special status.
So the “list of protected trees in Florida” is usually a local list, not a statewide list.
Before you cut anything: a simple checklist
Use this checklist before you remove a tree on your property.
1) Are you in a city with a tree ordinance?
Many Florida cities and counties regulate tree removal. They often regulate certain species or large trees. Start with your city website. You can also call the permit counter.
2) Is the tree near water or in a wet area?
Wetlands bring stricter rules. Canals, lake edges, marshy ground, and shorelines may require extra approvals.
3) Is the tree a protected species locally?
Many places protect certain types of trees. These often include live oaks, other oaks, gumbo limbo, mahogany, and other native hardwoods. Your location controls the list.
4) Is the tree hazardous?
Florida law can allow removal of a hazardous tree on residential property with proper documentation. This rule does not override mangrove protections.
5) Are there HOA rules or deed restrictions?
An HOA may require approval even when the city does not. Always check your community rules.
State level protections you should know
Mangroves are protected statewide
If you live near saltwater, brackish water, or tidal areas, mangroves matter.
Mangroves are protected statewide under Florida law. Trimming may be allowed, but the work must follow strict rules. Some trimming needs a permit. Some work needs qualified oversight. Requirements vary by area.
If you ask “what trees cannot be cut down” and you have mangroves, do not guess. Wrong work can create serious fines and costly restoration.
Sea grapes and shorelines
Some shoreline vegetation also receives protection in certain areas. Sea grapes can fall into that category in some coastal settings. Coastal plants often face more rules than inland yard trees.
Are cypress trees protected in Florida?
Many homeowners ask, “Are cypress trees protected in Florida?”
The practical answer
Cypress trees are not universally protected statewide like mangroves. Yet cypress often grows in wetlands. Wetlands are heavily regulated. That is why cypress removal can trigger rules.
When cypress removal becomes a problem
You are more likely to need approvals when the cypress grows in a wetland or conservation area. You may also need approvals when a protected overlay applies. Easements and mitigation rules can also apply. Some cities also require permits for most removals.
Can you cut down cypress trees in Florida?
If you search “can you cut down cypress trees in Florida” or “can you cut cypress trees in Florida,” use this approach.
Sometimes yes. This often applies to upland cypress on private property where local rules allow removal.
Sometimes no, or not without approvals. This often applies when the tree sits in a wetland or protected area.
Bald cypress tree Florida
Bald cypress is native and common across Florida. It also grows in wet sites. The land often triggers the rules. The tree may not be “listed,” but the location still matters.
If you have a bald cypress near water, do not treat it like a normal yard tree.
Cypress knees: what are they, and are cypress knees illegal?
Many people search “cypress knees,” “what are cypress knees,” “is it illegal to cut cypress knees,” and “cypress knees illegal.”
What are cypress knees?
Cypress knees are woody growths that rise from the root system of some cypress trees. They show up most often in wet sites. They are common around bald cypress and pond cypress. Experts still debate the exact purpose. Many believe knees help with oxygen exchange and stability in wet soils.
Can you cut cypress knees?
Cutting knees can harm the tree. It can also damage the root system. If the tree grows in a regulated wetland, disturbing the roots can create environmental violations.
Florida also regulates some sales of certain cypress products. So even if you remove material from your land, selling it may create new issues.
Bottom line. If you want to deal with knees, start with a site and tree health evaluation. Do not cut first and ask later.
Are gumbo limbo trees protected in Florida?
Another common question is “are gumbo limbo trees protected in Florida.”
The practical answer
In many South Florida cities, gumbo limbo trees are protected by local ordinance. Some cities list gumbo limbo as a protected species. Many also apply size rules based on trunk diameter.
Gumbo limbo is a valued native tree. It handles wind well. It also supports local ecosystems. That is why it often shows up on protected lists.
If you have a gumbo limbo, check your local rules before removal.
Are pine trees protected in Florida?
People also ask “are pine trees protected in Florida.”
The realistic answer
Most pine trees are not protected statewide. Local rules can still apply. Some cities protect all trees over a certain diameter. That includes pines. Some communities require permits for pine removal when trees hit size thresholds. Environmental permits can also apply to certain sites.
So a large pine can still require a permit, even if pine is not listed as a special protected species.
Are oak trees protected in Florida?
Top searches include “are oak trees protected in Florida,” “are live oaks protected in Florida,” and “can you cut down oak trees in Florida.”
Why are oak trees protected in Florida?
Many Florida cities protect oaks for clear reasons. Oaks build a strong shade canopy. They reduce stormwater runoff. They cool neighborhoods. They support wildlife. Large oaks take decades to replace. They also raise curb appeal and property value.
Are live oaks protected in Florida?
In many cities and counties, live oaks are protected once they reach a certain diameter. Some ordinances treat live oaks as a top tier protected species. Many call them heritage trees when they reach larger sizes.
Can you cut down an oak tree in Florida?
Sometimes yes. Sometimes you need a permit first. The answer depends on trunk size, species, local rules, and property overlays. Past permits tied to development can also affect what you can do now.
What trees are illegal to cut down in Florida?
This question causes confusion.
Most trees are not “illegal” just because of the species. The problem is the process. A tree can be legal to remove with a permit. The same tree can be illegal to remove without one.
Some coastal and wetland vegetation can trigger environmental rules. Those rules can apply even when a standard tree permit exists.
If you want the most accurate answer for your property, ask your local office these questions.
Do I need a permit to remove this tree?
Is this tree protected by species or size?
Do wetland or coastal rules apply to this parcel?
Do I need mitigation or replacement?
Florida tree law: the rule that can allow hazardous tree removal
Florida has a state statute that limits when local governments can require permits for removing a tree on residential property when the tree is documented as a danger to people or property.
Many homeowners miss key details.
This is not a free pass. You need documentation. A qualified professional often provides it. This rule does not cancel mangrove protections. It also does not cancel HOA rules.
If a tree leans, cracks, uproots, or threatens your home, document it. Good records protect you if questions come later.
Penalty for cutting a tree without a permit in Florida
Many people search “penalty for cutting trees without permit in Florida.”
What typically happens
Penalties vary by city and county. Many places issue a stop work order. Many also issue fines. Some fines stack daily. Many cities also require mitigation. That can mean replacement trees or payments into a tree fund. Some cases require extra inspections or surveys.
The biggest cost is often mitigation, not the fine. You can avoid that cost when you check first.
A practical protected trees in Florida list: how to think about it
Rules vary by location. This approach helps more than a single statewide list.
Trees often protected by local ordinances
Live oak and other mature oaks
Gumbo limbo, especially in South Florida
Mahogany in some communities
Royal poinciana in some cities
Other native hardwoods and heritage canopy trees
Trees often restricted by location
Mangroves in coastal areas
Sea grapes and shoreline vegetation in coastal and dune settings
Cypress growing in wetlands or conservation areas
If you came here for a “list of protected trees in Florida,” start with your local protected tree list. Then compare it to your trees.
What Optimum Tree Care recommends before removal
If you feel unsure, follow a simple process.
Identify the tree species.
Measure trunk diameter.
Check the site for wetlands or coastal rules.
Call the local office for guidance.
Use a professional crew for safe removal and cleanup.
Optimum Tree Care serves the Treasure Coast. We help homeowners understand typical local requirements before removal. We also handle the work with a safety first approach.
FAQ based on real Florida homeowner questions
What trees are protected in Florida?
Mangroves receive statewide protection in coastal areas. Most other protections come from your city or county. Local rules often depend on tree species and trunk diameter.
Are cypress trees protected in Florida?
Not statewide by species alone. Cypress often grows in wetlands. Wetland rules can restrict removal.
Can you cut down cypress trees in Florida?
Sometimes you can. Sometimes you need permits or environmental clearance. Location and local ordinance decide the answer.
What are cypress knees?
Cypress knees are woody growths that rise from cypress roots. They appear most often in wet ground. They relate to tree stability and health.
Is it illegal to cut cypress knees?
It can be, depending on wetland rules and local restrictions. Cutting knees can also damage the tree.
Are gumbo limbo trees protected in Florida?
Many South Florida cities protect gumbo limbo. Size rules often apply. Check your local protected tree list.
Are pine trees protected in Florida?
Most pines are not protected statewide. Local rules may require permits for larger pines or for removals in regulated areas.
Are oak trees protected in Florida?
Many Florida cities protect oaks, especially live oaks, once they reach certain sizes. Many classify large oaks as heritage trees.
Why are oak trees protected in Florida?
Mature oaks provide canopy, shade, stormwater benefits, and long term value. Communities protect them because they take decades to replace.
What trees are illegal to cut down in Florida?
Most trees are not illegal by species alone. Removing a regulated tree without permits or approvals is what creates violations.
What is the penalty for cutting a tree without a permit in Florida?
Penalties vary by location. Many cases include fines, stop work orders, and costly mitigation such as replacement trees or fees.
