Removing a tree inside Apalachicola city limits?

Standard process

Start with the City's tree permit application.

Apalachicola Tree Ordinance 2018-07 governs tree removal inside city limits. The current Tree Permit Application is submitted to the City's Code Enforcement Officer. Application and Reforestation Fund fees normally apply.

1. Contact the City or obtain the current application.
2. Describe the property and the tree proposed for removal.
3. Wait for the City's review before scheduling removal.
4. Keep the approved paperwork with your property records.

Florida hazard-tree rule

Some residential hazard trees are treated differently under state law.

Florida Statute 163.045 limits local permit and fee requirements when a residential property owner has documentation from a certified arborist or Florida-licensed landscape architect stating that a tree presents an unacceptable risk under ISA risk-assessment methods.

That professional documentation is separate from H&L's tree work. Ask the City how the state rule applies to your property before removal.

Common questions

Questions we get asked most.

Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Apalachicola?

Inside Apalachicola city limits, yes. Tree removal is governed by Apalachicola Tree Ordinance 2018-07, and the current Tree Permit Application goes to the City's Code Enforcement Officer. Application and Reforestation Fund fees normally apply. Wait for the City's review before removal is scheduled.

Does the permit apply to trimming and pruning, or only removal?

The ordinance and the application process described here cover tree removal. If you are planning heavy pruning rather than removal, ask the City how the ordinance applies to your specific situation before the work starts — it is a short call and it settles the question.

What does the tree permit cost?

The City sets application and Reforestation Fund fees, and those amounts can change, so we do not quote them here. Contact the City's Code Enforcement Officer for the current fee schedule. Our quote covers the tree work itself and is separate from any City fees.

Is there a fee waiver for palms with lethal bronzing?

On September 3, 2025, the City Commission accepted a Tree Committee recommendation to waive application and Reforestation Fund fees for private-property owners approved to remove palms showing lethal bronzing disease symptoms. The application is still required, and the Code Enforcement Officer still inspects the palm and records the decision. H&L can quote the removal; the City determines disease status and waiver eligibility.

Can I remove a dangerous tree without a permit under Florida law?

Florida Statute 163.045 limits local permit and fee requirements when a residential property owner holds documentation from a certified arborist or a Florida-licensed landscape architect stating that the tree presents an unacceptable risk under ISA risk-assessment methods. That documentation is separate from the tree work itself. Ask the City how the state rule applies to your property before anything is removed.

Who submits the application — me or H&L?

The guide is written for property owners: the application goes from you to the City's Code Enforcement Officer. H&L quotes the job and carries out the work. We are happy to look at the tree and give you a free quote while you sort the paperwork out with the City.

How long does the City take to review an application?

The ordinance does not fix a turnaround time, so we will not guess at one. The City reviews each application before removal should be scheduled — contact the Code Enforcement Officer for current timing and plan the work around their answer rather than the other way around.

Do these rules apply in Eastpoint, Carrabelle or St. George Island?

Not directly. Apalachicola's ordinance applies inside Apalachicola city limits. Other communities in the area fall under Franklin County or their own municipal rules, which differ. Check with the county or the relevant city before removing a tree outside Apalachicola.

Do I need paperwork for a tree that already fell?

A tree that is already down, or one that has split and is hanging over a structure, is a different situation from a planned removal. Call the City if you are inside city limits and unsure, and call us either way so the hazard gets cleared.

These answers describe the process as we understand it and are not legal advice. Ordinances, forms and fees change — confirm current requirements with the City before work begins. For general questions about tree work, see our tree service FAQ.