Trees - Summer 2019

Over the past few years regulations governing the removal of trees on private property has been strengthened in municipalities all over Florida. Unfortunately, in an effort to protect trees the advocates, in some municipalities, have pushed the pendulum too far in restricting and prohibiting the removal of trees. Let’s be clear; we all love trees and the benefits of tree canopies are well documented. However, there are some instances when trees need to be removed and home owners should have the ability and the “right” to remove unwanted trees at minimal expense. Section 163.045 of Florida Statues does just that, provided the home owner has documentation from an arborist or a Florida licensed Landscape Architect attesting that the tree presents a danger to persons or property.