Donald Ullom, Senior Arborist
Donald.Ullom@sarasotaFL.gov
1575 Second Street, 2^nd Floor
Sarasota, FL 34236
Monday – Friday, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
941-263-6530

Tree Protection Detail Requirements:

Grand Tree

Non-Grand Tree

Report a tree-related violation here _{(Under "Type of Violation" choose Tree removal/Tree Protection)}

A permit is required to remove or relocate any tree (other than citrus) greater than four and one-half inches in diameter at breast height, and most palms. While there is no fee to remove "nuisance" species of trees such as Melaleuca (punk trees), Australian pine, and certain others, you must obtain a permit prior to their removal. Only citrus trees do not require permits (Excluding the Mango tree.)

The City of Sarasota adopted Ordinance No. 21-5369 on June 15, 2022 amending the tree protection requirements with regard to the size of required replacement trees; the methodology for determining required mitigation; residential re-landscaping requirements; replacement tree evaluation requirements; creating a category of recommended trees; creating a category of undesirable trees and the removal of such trees; amending the definition of “grand tree” and “canopy tree”; creating a canopy road recognition program; allowing variances for tree preservation; and amending the landscaping requirements. Click here to view the updated regulations.

To view the fees and changes related to tree protection click here.

View the tree permit application requirements then submit an application in person to:

City of Sarasota
Development Services
2^nd Floor
1575 Second Street
Sarasota, FL 34236

To search for tree permits search by Application, Permit Number or by Address at our Online Portal

POSTING REQUIREMENTS: a weather-proof protected copy of the tree removal permit shall be posted at the site proposed for the tree removal. The permit must be displayed on the site prior to the removal of any trees and remain on the site until the tree removal or construction work is completed. Click here to view sample posting.

All trees that are on a tree removal application must be marked with orange ribbon within 24 hours of submitting application. The ribbon can be supplied by the City at the time an application is submitted. The intent of this is to ensure that the correct trees are inspected by the City Arborist for removal and to notify the public of the owners’ intention to remove the tree(s). Failure to mark the tree(s) prior to initial inspection will result in a failed inspection and a $100 re-inspection fee. Please remember that the tree(s) need to be marked within 24 hours of application to avoid re-inspection fees. Click here to view sample markings

LICENSE AND INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS: Contractors, subcontractors, tree service contractors, their agents and employees who perform pruning, planting, trimming or removing trees within the City of Sarasota shall be required to hold valid occupational licenses and valid proof of worker’s compensation insurance, public liability insurance and property damage insurance in accordance with any applicable requirements of Florida law.

NOTE: Be aware that requests for full payment before work begins should trigger a warning bell. You may never see the contractor again. You should pay in advance only when it is a large job, you have already properly screened the contractor, and you have a proper contract. Upon signing the contract you might need to pay a small percentage of the total amount with the balance due upon completion of the job.