Pembroke Pines Tree Permit Rules - City Ordinance

Land Use and Zoning Florida 3 Minutes Read · published February 21, 2026 Flag of Florida

Pembroke Pines, Florida requires permits and compliance with municipal tree regulations for many planting, trimming and removal activities on public and private property. This article summarizes where to find the controlling city ordinance, which activities typically need a permit, how enforcement works, and practical steps to apply, appeal or report violations in Pembroke Pines.

When permits are required

In Pembroke Pines, many routine trims do not need a permit but removals of specimen trees, trees in conservation areas, or work that affects root systems commonly require prior approval under the city code. For the controlling ordinance and definitions, see the City of Pembroke Pines Code of Ordinances (trees chapter). Pembroke Pines Code of Ordinances - Trees[1]

Always check species and protected-status definitions in the city code before starting work.

Permit types and review

  • Tree Removal Permit — for removal of protected or specimen trees and trees on landscaped buffers.
  • Tree Trimming Notification — for significant trimming that may affect tree health or stability.
  • Replacement/Planting Approval — for planting in required setbacks or replacement after removal.
  • Special permits or variances — when development plans need deviations from tree protection standards.

Applications are typically reviewed by the city department responsible for forestry/landscape or planning and zoning; timelines and thresholds for administrative vs. council review vary by application type.

Penalties & Enforcement

The municipal code sets the enforcement framework for tree protection and related permits; specific monetary penalties and fee schedules are not specified on the cited code overview page and must be confirmed on the controlling ordinance or fee schedule itself.[1]

  • Fines: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: first, repeat, and continuing offence ranges are not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: stop-work orders, mandatory replacement or mitigation planting, restoration orders, and referral to code enforcement or court actions are available under the city enforcement framework.
  • Enforcer: City of Pembroke Pines Code Compliance/Building or Planning division (see Help and Support / Resources below for contact pages).
  • Appeals: appeals or administrative reviews are handled through the city’s code enforcement or appeals process; exact time limits for filing appeals are not specified on the cited page.
If you are cited, document the site and contact the city promptly to learn appeal deadlines.

Applications & Forms

The city publishes permit applications and checklists for tree removal, replacement, and related landscape permits; specific form names, numbers, current fees, and submission portals are not specified on the cited municipal code overview page and should be obtained from the city’s permitting or building division pages.[1]

How to comply - action steps

  • Confirm whether the tree is classified as protected or specimen under the ordinance.
  • Obtain and complete the applicable Tree Removal or Tree Work permit application from the city.
  • Submit site plans, arborist reports or photographs as required by the application checklist.
  • Pay any permit fees and schedule required inspections or post-work compliance checks.
  • If denied, follow the city appeal procedure within the time limit stated on the denial notice.
Hiring a qualified arborist helps ensure applications include required tree condition and mitigation information.

FAQ

Do I always need a permit to remove a tree in Pembroke Pines?
Not always; routine pruning typically does not require a permit, but removal of specimen or protected trees, and work affecting roots or buffers generally requires a permit — confirm with the city code and permitting office.[1]
What happens if I remove a protected tree without a permit?
Unpermitted removals can lead to enforcement actions including restoration orders, replacement planting requirements, and fines; exact fine amounts are not specified on the cited code overview page.[1]
How do I appeal a tree permit denial or enforcement notice?
Follow the appeals procedure set out by the city’s code enforcement or the permit denial notice; the specific filing deadline is not specified on the cited page and should be confirmed with the city department handling the notice.[1]

How-To

  1. Identify the tree, location, and whether it meets the city’s protected/specimen criteria.
  2. Download or request the tree permit application and checklist from the city permitting or building department.
  3. Gather supporting materials: site plan, photos, arborist report, and proposed replacement plan if required.
  4. Submit the application and pay fees through the city’s permitting portal or by delivering to the designated office.
  5. Schedule inspections, complete required mitigation planting, and retain proof of compliance.

Key Takeaways

  • Check the city ordinance before removing or significantly trimming trees.
  • Obtain permits when required and keep documentation of approvals and inspections.
  • Contact the city’s permitting or code compliance office for forms, fees and appeals information.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Pembroke Pines Code of Ordinances - Trees chapter and related provisions

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