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If you’ve been thinking about removing or trimming a tree on your property, you may have heard about Florida’s Section 163.045, a law that lets homeowners bypass city permits for tree work—but only with proper documentation from a certified arborist or registered landscape architect.
As a certified arborist, I specialize in providing exactly that documentation. My role is not to cut trees down but to give you the professional assessment and written report you need to stay compliant with Florida law while making safe, informed decisions about your trees.
What Changed in the Law?
In 2022, Florida lawmakers amended Section 163.045 (through Senate Bill 518) to tighten the requirements around tree removal on residential properties. Here’s what the update means for you:
- The law only applies to single-family, detached homes (not condos or HOA common areas).
- To qualify, you must have a signed, onsite risk assessment by a certified arborist or landscape architect.
- The report must show that the tree poses an “unacceptable risk” to people or property, based on nationally recognized standards (ANSI A300 / ISA BMP).
- Local governments cannot require you to get a permit, pay fees, or plant replacement trees—if you have proper documentation.
How I Help Homeowners
My job is to be your independent tree expert. Here’s what I do:
- Onsite Tree Assessments – I visit your property and evaluate tree health, structure, and potential risks.
- Detailed Reports – I prepare the documentation required under Florida law, clearly stating whether a tree poses an unacceptable risk.
- Construction Impact Assessments – If you’re building or renovating, I provide pre-construction tree health assessments.
- Professional Guidance – I explain your options for preservation, pruning, or removal—so you make the best decision for safety and property value.
What I don’t do: I don’t cut, trim, or remove trees. This separation ensures my assessments are unbiased and strictly professional. If removal is needed, I can connect you with qualified tree service contractors who can do the work.
Why This Matters
Without the right arborist report:
- You may face fines or enforcement actions if you remove a tree improperly.
- Your contractor’s word alone may not protect you legally.
- You risk liability if a hazardous tree isn’t documented before removal.
With my certified assessment:
- You have a legal shield under Florida Statute § 163.045.
- You know your tree decisions are backed by science, not guesswork.
- You can move forward confidently, whether preserving, pruning, or removing.
Ready to Protect Your Property?
If you’re planning tree work in Central Florida, I can help you stay compliant and safe.
📩 Contact me today to schedule a certified arborist assessment and get the documentation you need under Florida’s updated law.