Who do I call to find out if my tree needs a permit?

Start with the City of Jacksonville's Building Inspection Division, which handles tree permits. The general city line is 630-CITY (904-630-2489). Ask whether your specific tree is a protected tree and whether your property qualifies for an exemption.

Do Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach, and Atlantic Beach follow the same rules?

No. The beach communities have their own tree ordinances, so check with the city where your property sits rather than assuming Jacksonville's rules apply.

What if the tree is already dead or about to fall?

Florida law gives homeowners a path for removing trees documented as an unacceptable risk. See our hazard-tree law guide, and also call the city if you are unsure.

Do You Need a Permit to Remove a Tree in Jacksonville?

Call (904) 584-3391

Jacksonville regulates the removal of certain trees, and whether you need a permit depends on the tree, the property, and the situation. This guide explains how the rules are structured. It is general information, not legal advice, and local rules change, so confirm with the city before you cut.

How Jacksonville’s tree protection works

The city’s zoning code (Chapter 656, Part 12) says that “protected trees” generally cannot be cut down, removed, or damaged without a permit. Permits are handled through the city’s Building Inspection Division, and an application typically describes the tree and why it needs to come out.

What counts as a protected tree depends mostly on the tree’s size and where it stands on the lot. The code has treated large hardwoods as especially valuable, while species such as most pines and many palms have been treated differently. Because the definitions have been revisited over the years, check the current rules rather than relying on a number from an old article.

Single-family homes

The code has included exemptions for trees on lots with a single-family home. In the version we reviewed, claiming an exemption could still require applying for a permit and paying a small fee. Do not assume that owning a single-family lot means no permit. Call and ask.

Hazard trees: a state law that limits local permits

Florida Statute 163.045 limits what a city can require when a tree on residential property poses an unacceptable risk. With the right documentation from a qualified professional, the city cannot require a permit, fee, or replanting for removing it. See Florida’s hazard-tree law explained.

The beaches have their own rules

Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach, and Atlantic Beach are separate municipalities with their own tree ordinances. If you live there, contact your city directly.

Special situations

Historic districts. Riverside and Avondale are historic districts. Ask the city’s historic preservation staff whether tree removal on your property needs approval.
Street trees and easements. Trees in the public right-of-way may be treated differently from trees in your yard. Ask the city who maintains the tree before removing it.
HOA rules. Your homeowners association may have its own approval process, separate from the city.
Near power lines. JEA manages vegetation around its lines. Never work near power lines yourself. Contact JEA about trees touching or close to lines.

Who is responsible for the permit?

If a tree service is doing the work, ask up front whether they pull the permit and how that shows up in the estimate. Get the answer in writing.

What to do next

Identify the tree (species, trunk diameter, location on your lot).
Call the city (630-CITY) and ask whether it is protected and what is required.
If you think it is a hazard, get a risk assessment from a qualified professional.
Get written estimates that state who handles permits.

Want help finding a local tree service? Call (904) 584-3391 or send a request below.