Protection & Preservation of Pinecrest Trees

Published on July 12, 2024

The removal of trees destroys shade and animal habitat and negatively impacts the environment. However, in some cases, it may be necessary to remove a potential hazard that could cause safety concerns. Each tree permit application is carefully reviewed by staff to determine if removal or relocation of a tree is warranted, and if a permit is required. A tree removal permit is required for the removal or relocation of any tree not specifically exempted by Pinecrest. 

Exceptions

Invasive Trees
- When removing invasive trees such as Bishopwood, Laurel Fig, Carrotwood, Brazilian Pepper, Mahoe, Schefflera, or Hong Kong Orchid, the Village does not charge a permit fee but requires inspection and confirmation of the invasive species by a Village arborist.
- Replacement or mitigation may be required. Fill out a tree removal/relocation application, if you suspect a tree on your property is invasive. A complete list of exempt trees is included in the application.

 Hazardous Trees
- Hazardous trees may be removed without a permit from Pinecrest residential districts following an onsite assessment and submittal of documentation performed in accordance with the tree risk assessment procedures outlined in Best Management Practices – Tree Risk Assessment, Second Edition by an arborist certified by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) or a Florida licensed landscape architect.
- Documentation must be signed by the certified arborist or licensed landscape architect.

Report Illegal Tree Cutting
To request an inspection of your tree(s) or to report a suspected cutting or removal of trees without a permit, please contact the building and planning department via email or call 205.234.2121 or report it via the MyPinecrest App under the code compliance tab.

Tree Pruning
- A permit is required to trim or prune trees adjacent to Pinecrest Parkway (US 1) or anywhere within the Village’s commercial zoning districts.
- In residential areas, a tree trimming permit is not required.
- Trees must be properly trimmed in accordance with the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) A300 Second Edition Tree Care Standards to avoid fines.
- Property owners will be required to replace the canopy lost by improper pruning.
- Improper tree trimming - also known as hat racking - is when a tree has been flat-cut, or simply when any branch three inches or greater is removed. 
- It is illegal to hat rack a tree. 

No more than one-fourth of a tree’s living canopy may be removed within a one-year period. Hire a qualified and registered arborist or landscaper, when trimming trees.

Commercial Landscaper Registration 
Commercial landscapers are required to register with Pinecrest. Registration forms may be obtained online or from the building and planning department