Tree Removal Permits

The Village of North Palm Beach has adopted a Tree Preservation Ordinance to help protect native trees and maintain our community’s tree canopy. Trees clean our air and water, reduce flooding, provide shade, and make our Village more beautiful.

This new ordinance creates a Tree Removal Permit process, a Tree Trust Fund, and a tree mitigation program to ensure valuable trees are preserved or replaced when removal is necessary.

The Tree Removal Permit Application Form can be found HERE.

View the full Tree Preservation Ordinance HERE.

Oak Tree.

When is a Tree Removal Permit Required?

You need a permit to:

  • Remove any protected native tree (as defined by species and size in the ordinance).
  • Remove any tree located in a swale (the grassy strip between the sidewalk and road, which is public property).

When is a Permit Not Required?

You do not need a permit for:

  • Trees posing an immediate danger (Florida Statute 163.045, with arborist/landscape architect documentation)
  • Invasive species
  • Fruit trees
  • Dead trees
  • Trees damaged by storms (“Acts of God”)
  • Routine trimming or maintenance

How to Apply for a Permit

  1. Fill out a Tree Removal Application HERE.
  2. Provide photos and/or a simple sketch showing the tree’s location.
  3. Submit your materials and fee to the Village Building and Zoning Department.

Fees:

  • $25 per tree (application fee)
  • If replacement isn’t possible, contributions to the Tree Trust Fund (see more information below) are required:
    • Small tree (6–12 in. DBH): $150
    • Medium tree (12–18 in. DBH): $250
    • Large tree (18+ in. DBH): $400
    • Swale tree: $200

The Tree Trust Fund

Contributions to the fund support:

  • Planting trees in public spaces
  • Free tree giveaways for residents
  • Community tree education programs
  • Ongoing care for the Village’s urban canopy

Who Reviews the Application?

The Village Building and Zoning Director reviews permit applications. A certified arborist or licensed landscape architect may be consulted if needed.

Violation Penalties

Unauthorized tree removal can result in:

  • Triple permit fees
  • Mandatory replanting or mitigation
  • Stop-work orders

Have Questions?

The Village of North Palm Beach Building & Zoning Department is here to provide guidance and answer any questions you may have. Please call (561) 841-3365 or email: cdplanner@village-npb.org.