Tampa Tree Preservation and Protection
Policy Title: Tampa Tree Protection, Preservation, and Permits
Year Adopted: 2024
City: Tampa, FL
Main Citation: Tampa, FL Code of Ordinances Sec. 27-284.2. - Permits, in general; tree protection during construction; inspections.
Description:
Tampa’s Tree Protection Ordinance ensures that trees are a key consideration in development planning and review, integrating them into site designs whenever feasible. Under Section 27-43, all development proposals must comply with tree preservation requirements, with a special focus on grand trees and significant canopy cover. Developers must conduct a tree survey to document the size, species, and condition of trees on a property. If removal is unavoidable, permits are required, and mitigation measures—such as replanting trees or contributing to the city’s tree fund—must be implemented. The ordinance also establishes buffer zones and root protection barriers during construction to minimize damage.
Tampa’s Landscape Tree Planting Standards (Section 27-284.3.1) further outline guidelines to preserve and enhance the city’s urban tree canopy. New developments must plant a minimum number of shade trees strategically positioned to improve energy efficiency, stormwater management, and urban cooling. Additionally, developers are required to preserve native and drought-resistant species to promote biodiversity and reduce water usage.
Impact:
Tampa's Tree Protection Ordinance provides a strong regulatory framework for protecting mature urban trees. By mandating tree surveys, requiring permits for tree removal, and implementing mitigation measures such as replanting or contributions to the city’s tree fund, the ordinance ensures responsible tree management during development. Special protection is granted to grand trees, and buffer zones and root protection barriers are enforced during construction to minimize damage. These regulations demonstrate a best practice approach to balancing urban development with the preservation of mature trees, promoting ecological health and urban resilience.