New Port Richey Tree Removal Permits and Tree Ordinance Guide
Last reviewed October 28, 2026. Next review due April 28, 2027. By Forest, Property Intelligence Specialist, Ken's Tree Service.
This guide covers the City of New Port Richey, not Port Richey or outside-city properties with New Port Richey mailing addresses. Outside the city, start with our unincorporated Pasco County tree permit guide.
Section 8.02.04 routes a required tree removal permit through written application, a council-set fee and development review committee site-plan approval, subject to exemptions and the qualifying state-law route. (8.02.04)
Is this a tree-retention ordinance or just a permit form?
Section 8.02.01 makes removing or destroying a covered tree unlawful except under the article, subject to its exemptions and the qualifying state-law route. (8.02.01) Section 8.02.07(1) says the committee “shall issue a permit” after application and its field report if one or more removal conditions exist, including the broad general-public or citizen welfare ground in 8.02.07(1)(c). (8.02.07(1)) Section 8.02.08(1) sets inch-for-inch replacement as the standard unless the committee and applicant agree otherwise, and directs the committee, in granting diseased or hazardous-tree waivers, to act “with the intent that the inch-for-inch replacement requirement shall be upheld in all possible circumstances.” (8.02.08(1))
Does a homeowner need a New Port Richey tree removal permit?
Section 8.02.03(1) requires a permit on platted lots or tracts under one acre with a valid certificate of occupancy for a tree with a trunk diameter of four inches or more, subject to the exemptions and qualifying state-law route; its measurement abbreviation is printed as “DBR.” (8.02.03(1)) Section 8.02.12(2) instead exempts trees four inches DBH or under on small tracts with a valid certificate of occupancy, so the two texts give opposite answers at exactly four inches. (8.02.12(2))
Before acting at exactly four inches, ask Development for the committee’s interpretation. This guide does not resolve that conflict.
Section 8.02.02(17) defines a tree as a self-supporting woody plant of a species normally reaching at least fifteen feet at maturity in the city, including mangroves and cabbage palms. (8.02.02(17))
Section 8.02.02(17) means a species not normally reaching fifteen feet at maturity is not a “tree” under this article’s definition. (8.02.02(17))
Section 8.02.02(17) expressly names cabbage palms and mangroves. (8.02.02(17)) Section 8.02.12(4) names no palm in its species exemption list. (8.02.12(4)) Section 8.02.07(1)(b) uses a five-foot palm distance, and 8.02.08(1) uses a per-inch palm rate, without limiting either reference to cabbage palms. (8.02.07(1)(b)) (8.02.08(1)) Do not assume only cabbage palms need permits; confirm a non-cabbage palm with the Development Department.
Section 8.02.08(1) provides a local diseased, dead or hazardous-tree route rather than an automatic dead-tree exemption; its committee process is separate from the state statute’s eligibility test. (8.02.08(1))
Section 8.02.03(6) requires property with officially designated specimen or historic trees to be maintained so those trees remain living. (8.02.03(6))
How do you measure a tree?
Section 8.02.02(6) defines DBH as the diameter in inches measured four and one-half feet above existing grade. (8.02.02(6))
For a circular trunk, circumference at that height divided by 3.14 approximates diameter: four inches corresponds to approximately 12.56 inches circumference. Arithmetic does not resolve the four-inch conflict or identify species.
Which local exemptions and emergency waivers change the answer?
Section 8.02.12(1) exempts a transplant on a small tract, while Section 8.02.02(16) defines transplant as moving the same tree from one place on the owner’s property to another place on that property. (8.02.12(1))
Section 8.02.12(3) exempts city-recognized land conducting bona fide agricultural uses and practices. (8.02.12(3))
Section 8.02.02(1) defines bona fide agriculture as a land use from which the owner receives greater than fifty percent of the owner’s livelihood, such as citrus groves and timber production. (8.02.02(1))
Section 8.02.11 allows the development review committee to waive article requirements during hurricane, windstorm, flood, freeze or other disaster emergencies only upon finding that a waiver is necessary to avoid impeding restoration of order. (8.02.11)
The code’s complete exempt-species list
Section 8.02.12(4) exempts the following species from the terms and provisions of the article, rather than merely waiving a fee. (8.02.12(4))
Code common name | Code botanical name |
|---|---|
Brazilian Pepper Florida Holly | Schinus terebinthifolius |
Punk Tree Canjeput | Melaleuca quinquenervia |
Camal Eucalyptus | Eucalyptus camaldulensis |
Ear Tree | Enterlobium cyclocarpum |
Australian Pine | Casuarina equisetifolia |
Silk Oak | Grevillea robusta |
Chinaberry | Melia azedarach |
Chinese Tallow Tree | Sapium sebiferum |
Male Mulberry Tree | Brovssonettaia papyrifera |
Does pruning a private-property tree need a permit?
Section 8.02 publishes no separate ordinary private-tree pruning permit, standard or topping rule, but 8.02.02(14) includes “effective removal through damage” in removal; protected-tree damage, mangrove and landscape-visibility rules still apply. (Tree protection definitions)
Section 8.07.06 requires landscape cross-visibility between three and six feet at the specified intersections and permits trees with over six feet of clear trunk only when trimmed out of that visibility area and not creating a traffic hazard. (8.07.06)
Section 8.07.07 supplies accessway visibility-triangle geometry. (8.07.07) Section 8.07.08 supplies intersection visibility-triangle geometry. (8.07.08)
Section 24-377(i)(2) requires landscape maintenance for hire to follow recommendations in the Florida-Friendly Best Management Practices for Protection of Water Resources by the Green Industries. (24-377(i)(2))
Who can apply for a tree permit?
Section 8.02.04 allows any person seeking the covered removal, relocation, clearing or grubbing permit to apply to the development review committee. (8.02.04)
Section 8.02.02(12) includes an individual, partnership, corporation, association or other legal entity within “person.” (8.02.02(12))
The current application provides separate property-owner-or-agent and contractor signatures with notarial acknowledgments. (Tree permit application, page 2)
Florida Statute 163.045 and the limits of the residential route
Florida Statute 163.045(1)(b) limits this route to a single-family detached building on a lot actively used for single-family residential purposes that is a conforming use or legally recognized nonconforming use under local land-development regulations, not commercial property, multifamily property or an HOA common area. (Florida Statute 163.045(1)(b))
Florida Statute 163.045(1)(a) requires an onsite assessment performed under Best Management Practices - Tree Risk Assessment, Second Edition (2017), by an ISA-certified arborist or a Florida-licensed landscape architect, signed by that professional. (Florida Statute 163.045(1)(a))
Florida Statute 163.045(2) bars local notice, application, approval, permit, fee or mitigation for pruning, trimming or removal on the statute’s qualifying residential property only when the owner possesses the specified professional documentation of unacceptable risk; removal must be the only means of practically mitigating the risk below moderate under the named assessment procedures. (Florida Statute 163.045(2))
Florida Statute 163.045(3) prohibits a local replanting requirement for a tree pruned, trimmed or removed in accordance with the statute. (Florida Statute 163.045(3))
Florida Statute 163.045(4) excludes specifically delegated mangrove protection authority under Sections 403.9321 through 403.9333; this guide does not extend the residential route to mangroves. (Florida Statute 163.045(4))
Tree health alone is not this test. Ken's Tree Service does not sign this documentation itself. Where a homeowner wants it, the signed report is something we arrange as part of the job.
Mangroves require a separate state check
Section 8.02.03(5) requires a city permit for mangroves of whatever size, naming red, black and white mangroves and buttonwood or button mangrove; the tree-survey exemption still requires name and clump location and does not remove the aerial or site-plan review requirements. (8.02.03(5))
DEP’s seven delegated governments do not include New Port Richey or Pasco County; a city tree permit is not delegated state mangrove approval. (DEP delegated mangrove authority)
DEP identifies white, red and black mangroves as the state Act’s species and says the same trimming regulations apply to living and dead mangroves; buttonwood appears in the city list, not this state definition. (DEP mangrove scope)
DEP district offices and delegated local governments process mangrove trimming or alteration applications, so check the separate state route before mangrove work. (DEP mangrove application guidance)
Penalties and enforcement after unauthorized removal
Section 8.02.16 makes each tree removed without a permit a separate offense and sends a conviction to the general penalties in Section 1-14. (8.02.16)
Section 1-14 provides a uniform-schedule fine, up to sixty days’ imprisonment, or both, and a fallback fine not exceeding $500 when the schedule does not prescribe a penalty for the specific provision. (1-14) Section 1-14’s history lists Ordinance 1546, Section I (November 21, 2000), and 2020-2178, Section 1 (January 7, 2020), as adoption dates; figure-setting markup and effective clauses were not found in the code, Clerk listings or council records checked October 28, 2026. (1-14 history)
Section 1-14 treats each day a violation continues as a separate offense. (1-14)
Section 2-240 assigns violation classes to a separately established and amended uniform fine schedule that supersedes conflicting ordinance fines. (2-240)
A current tree-specific uniform fine schedule and effective instrument were not found in the code, Code Enforcement, Finance, council records or official-site searches checked October 28, 2026. The fallback is not a flat tree fine. (Code Enforcement; Finance; council records)
Section 8.02.17(1) adds a civil penalty equal to the total value of illegally removed or damaged trees computed from the “International Society of Arboriculture shade tree value formula,” recoverable by city civil action and payable to the tree-bank fund, with inch-for-inch restoration or a combination of money and replacement also possible. (8.02.17(1))
Section 8.02.17(2) allows the city council to seek an injunction against a violation or imminent violation. (8.02.17(2))
Section 2-251(a) limits special-magistrate daily fines to the lesser of $250 or the uniform-schedule amount for a first offense, the lesser of $500 or that schedule for a repeat offense, and up to $5,000 per violation found irreparable or irreversible. (2-251(a)) Section 2-251’s history lists Ordinance 2013-2008, Section 1, adopted June 18, 2013; cap-setting markup and its effective clause were not found in the code, Clerk listings or council records checked October 28, 2026. (2-251 history)
Section 2-256(d) allows a recorded certified fine order to become a lien on the violation land and other real or personal property of the violator, enforceable as the subsection specifies. (2-256(d))
Section 2-256(e) allows foreclosure after three months on an unpaid recorded lien but prohibits foreclosure of such a lien on constitutional homestead property. (2-256(e))
Section 2-256(a) gives the property owner twenty days from a fine order to request a hearing challenging the amount and bars filing the fine as a lien before that period expires or a timely challenge concludes, whichever is later. (2-256(a))
What replacement trees or tree-fund payments are required?
Section 8.02.08(1) requires relocation or replacement where practical as a permit condition, ordinarily one inch DBH total replacement for each inch removed unless the committee and applicant agree otherwise, with comparable shade, screening and other characteristics, at least eight feet high and Florida Department of Agriculture Nursery Grade No. 1 or better. (8.02.08(1))
Section 8.02.08(1) allows the committee, when inch-for-inch replacement is impractical under the proposed site plan, to require a tree-fund payment equal to the unreplaced trees’ value using a qualified nursery estimate or the city’s most recent per-inch purchase cost for material with similar shade potential. (8.02.08(1))
Section 8.02.08(1) requires reasonable owner care for replacement trees and places a suggested replacement-tree list in the development services department. (8.02.08(1))
The city’s diseased, dead or hazardous-tree route
Section 8.02.08(1) allows committee consideration of an inch-for-inch waiver for a diseased, dead or hazardous tree posing an “eminent threat” to public safety or public or private property, then calls for the tree-fund rates in the table, with one-for-one approved replacement in lieu of payment. (8.02.08(1)) Section 8.02.08’s history lists Ordinances 1330 (November 30, 1993), 1757 (April 5, 2005) and 1835 (August 15, 2006), as adoption dates; rate-setting markup and effective clauses were not found in the code, Clerk listings or council records checked October 28, 2026. (8.02.08 history)
Local threat-based tree-fund payment under Section 8.02.08(1) | Codified rate per inch |
|---|---|
Palm | $25.00 |
Shade tree | $62.50 |
Section 8.02.08(2) again allows committee consideration of an inch-for-inch waiver for a diseased, dead or hazardous tree posing an imminent threat to public safety or public or private property, but says that when the committee does not waive “such requirement,” the applicant must make one-for-one approved replacement. (8.02.08(2))
Section 8.02.08(1) requires written diseased-tree certification by a registered Florida nurseryman, registered horticulturist, state forestry official or county extension agent, at the applicant’s cost. (8.02.08(1))
Section 8.02.08(2) adds a certified arborist and code enforcement officer to that certification list, also at the applicant’s cost, without stating which duplicated list has priority. (8.02.08(2))
Single-family and duplex minimums
Section 8.02.08(3) sets the following lot-size minimums, counts trees left in good growing condition toward them, and determines replacement selection, number and species from canopy and soil analysis. (8.02.08(3))
Lot size in square feet, as written | Minimum replacements |
|---|---|
3,500 to 6,000 | 2 |
6,000 to 9,500 | 4 |
9,500 to 16,000 | 6 |
Over 16,000, per 16,000-square-foot unit | 8 |
Section 8.02.08(3) sets city-required single-family and duplex replacements at a minimum four inches DBH, eight feet high and Florida Department of Agriculture Nursery Grade No. 1 or better, with size determined by the committee. (8.02.08(3))
Section 8.02.08(3) leaves overlapping 6,000/9,500-square-foot rows and no row below 3,500 square feet; obtain the city’s determination. (8.02.08(3))
The tree bank
Section 8.02.08(4) gives the city, with the owner’s permission, the option to move permitted-removal trees to city property at city expense within fifteen working days of permit issuance, or thirty working days when survival requires root pruning, or another schedule agreed by all parties. (8.02.08(4))
What changes for commercial property, multifamily buildings and HOA common areas?
Section 8.02.03(2) requires a permit to remove trees four inches DBH or more on undeveloped tracts under one acre, subject to the article’s exemptions. (8.02.03(2))
Section 8.02.03(3) applies the four-inch-DBH-or-more permit trigger to platted or unplatted tracts one acre or larger, subject to the article’s exemptions and qualifying state-law route. (8.02.03(3))
For commercial, multifamily, institutional or HOA-common-area property, use tract size, development status and existing approvals. Do not assume the single-family replacement table applies.
Section 8.07.00 adds landscape standards for development other than single-family or duplex where off-street parking or open-lot sales, display and service areas are provided. (8.07.00)
Section 8.07.05 makes the owner, tenant and agent jointly and severally responsible for maintaining required landscaping in good condition. (8.07.05)
Section 8.07.11 allows the city manager to credit healthy existing plant material when consistent with the landscape section’s intent and requires any existing-tree removal to comply with Section 8.02.00. (8.07.11)
For an approved landscape plan, submit proposed changes for city review. Article 8.02 does not specify a universal per-removal amendment procedure.
Parking-area trees, buffers and landscape credits
Section 8.07.01 defines landscape trees as self-supporting woody plants normally at least fifteen feet high with trunks maintainable with over five feet of clear wood, permits grouped trees or palms with smaller mature crowns to make the equivalent of a fifteen-foot spread, and requires non-palm planting stock at least eight feet high. (8.07.01)
Section 8.07.01 limits palms to fifty percent of the tree requirement for a vehicular-use area and requires at least ten feet of clear wood at planting. (8.07.01)
Section 8.07.01 requires a code-enforcement-department permit for trees planted in the public right-of-way and keeps an acceptable-tree list in that office. (8.07.01)
Section 8.07.02(1)(a) sets the MF perimeter buffer and tree ratios tabulated here for vehicular-use areas with over three parking spaces, excluding single-family and duplex residences; clustering is allowed. (8.07.02(1)(a))
Section 8.07.02(1)(b) sets the MF interior figures tabulated here, excluding required perimeter buffers; eligible beautifying parcel landscaping may count under the paragraph’s credit provisions. (8.07.02(1)(b))
Section 8.07.02(2)(a) sets the office perimeter buffer and tree ratios tabulated here, with the specified screening barrier. (8.07.02(2)(a))
Section 8.07.02(2)(b) sets the office interior figures tabulated here, excluding required perimeter buffers; excess perimeter and qualifying parcel landscaping may count under the paragraph’s credit provisions. (8.07.02(2)(b))
Section 8.07.02(3)(a) requires a three-foot landscaped perimeter buffer beside public right-of-way or residential zoning for the category it calls “these zoning categories,” with one tree per thirty-five linear feet or fraction and the specified screening; for right-of-way entirely inside such property, as in an industrial park, it instead states one tree per fifty linear feet and no hedge. (8.07.02(3)(a))
Section 8.07.02(3)(b) sends interior landscaping for those unnamed categories to “other zoning categories” through a blank cross-reference, except where a building or required landscape barrier separates the vehicular-use area from public view. (8.07.02(3)(b))
Vehicular-use category | Perimeter buffer and trees | Interior landscaping and trees |
|---|---|---|
MF-10, MF-14, MF-30, within the stated parking scope | At least 3 feet; 1 tree per 35 linear feet or fraction | 10%; 1 per 2 planters and at least 1 per 400 square feet or fraction |
Office | At least 3 feet; 1 tree per 35 linear feet or fraction | 10%; 1 per 2 planters and at least 1 per 400 square feet or fraction |
Subsection (3), categories not named | At least 3 feet beside right-of-way or residential zoning; 1 per 35 linear feet or fraction | Blank cross-reference and public-view exception; obtain city interpretation |
Subsection (3), internal right-of-way such as an industrial park | 1 tree per 50 linear feet; clumping allowed; no hedge | Same unresolved interior cross-reference |
What must a development, pool, addition or clearing project submit?
Section 8.02.03(4) requires the four-inch-DBH-or-more tree permit for land clearing on platted, unplatted or undeveloped land, subject to the article’s exemptions and qualifying state-law route. (8.02.03(4))
Section 8.02.04(1)(a) requires a small-tract plan to show lot shape and dimensions and existing and proposed structures and improvements. (8.02.04(1)(a))
Section 8.02.04(1)(b) requires locations and common or botanical identification of regulated trees, distinguishing retained, transplanted and removed trees, and allows closely spaced groups to be shown as clumps with predominant species, estimated number and average size. (8.02.04(1)(b))
Section 8.02.04(1)(c) requires proposed transplant locations and a statement of protection during clearing and construction and maintenance afterward. (8.02.04(1)(c))
Section 8.02.04(1)(d) requires a retained-tree protection statement, such as a protective barrier. (8.02.04(1)(d))
Section 8.02.04(1)(e) requires setback and easement locations and dimensions. (8.02.04(1)(e))
Section 8.02.04(1)(f) requires proposed grade-change statements and their effect on the tree regulations. (8.02.04(1)(f))
Section 8.02.04(1)(g) requires any proposed tree-replacement program. (8.02.04(1)(g))
Section 8.02.04(1)(h) requires retained trees to be identified before field inspection and required protective barricades to be erected before permit issuance. (8.02.04(1)(h))
Section 8.02.04(2) requires large tracts to supply a topographic survey sealed by a registered engineer or registered surveyor showing the small-tract information, plus suitable aerial information at minimum one inch equals two hundred feet and/or a tree survey, with a tree survey required in removal-authorization areas except areas previously approved under land clearing. (8.02.04(2))
Section 8.02.02(20) defines a tree survey as an aerial at minimum one inch equals two hundred feet or a scale drawing locating protected trees accurately, giving common names and DBH, and supplying other information the committee requires. (8.02.02(20))
Section 8.02.04(3) allows clearing or grubbing on written request when physical conditions prevent preparation of a tree survey, but first requires protected-tree number, species and size information and approval of site drainage plans, with trees undisturbed and at least the dripline understory intact during authorized grubbing. (8.02.04(3))
Section 8.02.04(4) allows reduced unnecessary site information only when the applicant submits a No Tree Verification and the building official or designee substantiates the absence of protected trees or vegetation by inspection. (8.02.04(4))
Section 8.02.02(11) defines No Tree Verification as a signed, notarized statement by the owner or agent that no trees exist on the site. (8.02.02(11))
Section 3.11.03, preliminary (1) requires a current property survey prepared, signed and sealed by a Florida-registered land surveyor. (3.11.03, preliminary (1))
Section 3.11.03, preliminary (3) requires owner/representative contacts and authorization for a non-owner representative. (3.11.03, preliminary (3))
Section 3.11.03, preliminary (4) requires architect, landscape architect or engineer contact details; preliminary drawings are unsealed. (3.11.03, preliminary (4))
Section 3.11.03, preliminary (14) requires tree/tree-mass locations and species, understory, ground cover, wildlife habitat and other environmentally unique areas. (3.11.03, preliminary (14))
Section 3.11.03, final Public works/engineering (1) requires surveyed location, DBH and type of existing trees four inches DBH or more, distinguishing removal and retention. (3.11.03, final Public works/engineering (1))
Section 3.11.03, final Administration (1) requires three drawing sets with original architect, engineer and landscape-architect seals before clearing, grubbing or construction permits. (3.11.03, final Administration (1))
Section 3.11.03, final Administration (2) requires complete as-built drawings signed and sealed by the project engineer before new-building occupancy. (3.11.03, final Administration (2))
Section 8.02.05 requires every tree-removal application to be field checked and normally requires final site-plan approval before tree-permit approval, except the defined clearing or grubbing permit. (8.02.05)
Section 8.02.06 makes preapplication inspection services available through the building official or designee for alternate-site-plan, large-tract and land-clearing applications. (8.02.06)
For a pool, addition, redevelopment or demolition clearing, submit affected trees and proposed grading with site review. Do not treat building or demolition approval as tree authorization.
How must trees be protected during construction?
Section 8.02.09 prohibits solvents, materials, construction machinery or temporary soil deposits within six feet or two-thirds of the drip line, whichever is greater, of trees at least four inches DBH during construction of structures or improvements. (8.02.09)
Section 8.02.02(7) defines the drip line as the vertical projection of the outermost branch tips to the ground. (8.02.02(7))
Section 8.02.02(13) defines a protective barrier as a substantial wooden, metal or other physical structure at least four feet high limiting access, with variations allowed on written request when they meet the article’s intent. (8.02.02(13))
Section 8.02.09 requires a permit before development, clearing, filling or land alteration, requires barriers to remain until building inspectors authorize removal or final occupancy is issued, prohibits attachments and wires on protected trees, and allows the specified right-of-way, utility and separate-large-area ribboning alternatives. (8.02.09)
Section 8.02.10 allows a betterment landscape plan demonstrating environmental improvement, but when the committee accepts it the code requires the applicant to “guarantee by adequate bond” faithful adherence and completion. (8.02.10)
Section 8.02.18 allows the building official to withhold certificates of occupancy, permits and inspections until the article and tree-permit conditions have been fully met. (8.02.18)
Section 2-263(b) preserves other enforcement methods, including a stop-work order, rather than making civil citations the city’s exclusive remedy. (2-263(b))
Section 2-263(c) makes the civil-citation article applicable to all city-code and ordinance violations. (2-263(c))
Section 8.07.09(1) requires committee approval before development of a vehicular-use area and three copies of the combined site/planting plan to the city manager, submitted with building plans for a related new structure or normal site review where required. (8.07.09(1))
Section 8.07.09(2) requires the vehicular-use plan to identify its owner and designer and show dimensions, parking and circulation, existing trees and buildings, planting areas and plant quantity, spacing, size and name, along with the other listed site details. (8.07.09(2))
Section 8.07.10 requires inspection and a landscape compliance certificate before a related occupancy certificate or street curb access, with temporary occupancy or curb permission possible only if the stated acceptable financial security is provided. (8.07.10)
Section 8.07.12 allows the city manager to grant a written-request landscape variance when strict compliance is impossible or impractical and the section’s intent is preserved. (8.07.12)
Use 8.07.03 for installation and protection from vehicles and 8.07.04 for optional landscaping between wheel stops and space ends; maintenance and visibility remain governed by 8.07.05 through 8.07.08.
What district rules add tree and buffer requirements?
Section 7.16.07(3)(a) requires existing trees in Planned Development Districts to be preserved in accordance with the code. (7.16.07(3)(a))
Section 7.16.07(3)(b) requires removed trees in Planned Development Districts to be replaced in accordance with the code. (7.16.07(3)(b))
Section 7.03.10.03(4) requires every R-4 coastal-cottage lot to have one tree and foundation plantings at the front of the primary structure at new construction. (7.03.10.03(4))
Section 7.09.09 adds vehicle-sales-dealership standards to the other code standards and expressly makes its own standards control where they conflict. (7.09.09)
Section 7.09.09, Buffering requires the dealership buffers and canopy trees in the table, placing residential-edge trees and shrubs outside the required wall or fence toward the residential property. (7.09.09, Buffering)
Dealership edge | Minimum buffer | Canopy trees |
|---|---|---|
U.S. Highway 19 frontage | 6 feet | 1 per 60 feet or 2 per lot frontage, whichever is greater; equally spaced |
Other lot perimeter | 4 feet | 1 per 60 feet |
Beside residential zoning | 6 feet, plus 6-foot opaque masonry wall or fence | 1 per 60 feet of wall or fence; trees outside it toward residential property |
Section 7.09.09, Outdoor Inventory Display requires landscaped islands covering at least fifteen percent of dealership outdoor inventory, parking and vehicular-use areas, each island at least twenty square feet with at least one canopy tree, dispersed through the pavement; inventory may not encroach into buffers or landscaping. (7.09.09, Outdoor Inventory Display)
Section 7.27.01 applies multifamily design standards to projects with at least ten dwelling units or at least one acre, excluding renovations or alterations that do not increase units and existing projects developing in phases under a previously approved building permit. (7.27.01)
Section 7.27.06(a)(i) gives priority to preservation of significant natural features and cultural resources through public open-space dedication or common open space, including existing mature trees and vegetation. (7.27.06(a)(i))
Section 7.27.04(c)(iii) requires a regular pattern of tightly spaced street trees; consult it for remaining street-design details. (7.27.04(c)(iii))
Native-vegetation preservation on development sites
Section 24-377, applicability lead-in applies its subsections (a) through (f) to newly disturbed areas when new construction or development, redevelopment, reconstruction, upgrading, expansion or change of use requires site-plan review before a building permit. (24-377, applicability lead-in)
Section 24-377(a)(2) requires riparian buffers in new-development site plans adjoining waters of the state; use that subsection for recommended widths and design practices. (24-377(a)(2))
Section 24-377(c)(1) exempts independent parcels under one acre and individual single-family lots from its set-asides, but not single-family or planned-unit developments, and leaves the separate tree and landscape ordinances applicable. (24-377(c)(1))
Section 24-377(c)(2) requires one percent of a development site set aside and one percent of native vegetation preserved during clearing within that scope, subject to the utility/easement exceptions; where vegetation is absent, established open-space zoning and landscape criteria apply. (24-377(c)(2))
Section 24-377(c)(3) requires perimeter construction barriers, prohibits storage, dumping and soil removal or regrading within preserved vegetation, and requires equivalent replacement of damaged vegetation before occupancy certificates or other approvals. (24-377(c)(3))
Section 24-377(c)(4) supplies ecological priorities. (24-377(c)(4)) Section 24-377(c)(5) supplies plant-community representation. (24-377(c)(5)) Section 24-377(c)(6) supplies utility exceptions. (24-377(c)(6)) Section 24-377(c)(7) supplies perpetual preservation. (24-377(c)(7)) Section 24-377(c)(8) supplies connected habitat. (24-377(c)(8)) Section 24-377(c)(9) supplies set-aside exclusions. (24-377(c)(9)) Section 24-377(g)(6) supplies mulch specifications. (24-377(g)(6))
How do you apply, and what does the city permit cost?
The FY 2026 to 2027 fee schedule lists a Tree Removal Permit at $50 for up to five trees and $10 for additional trees, without a separate residential/commercial tree-permit row; replacement or tree-fund obligations and applicable project-review charges are separate. (Current city fee schedule, page 8)
The September 15, 2026 council minutes record approval of Resolution No. 2026-26, the FY 2026 to 2027 comprehensive fee schedule, but the reviewed schedule and minutes do not provide the resolution’s effective clause. (September 15 council minutes)
Confirm city jurisdiction, tract classification, species and proposed work.
Prepare the current application, applicable plans and owner authorization.
Submit through the Building Division’s published channel; retain plans and condition evidence.
Identify retained trees and install required protection before permit issuance.
Await the required city decision; follow approved scope, replacement and inspection conditions.
The current tree application, revised May 13, 2026, asks an existing homeowner to mark approximate removal locations with an X and provides a tree-survey option to draw all trees on a survey or similar diagram. (Current homeowner submittal wording)
The form asks for the number and type of trees and a removal criterion, and has Residential, Commercial and Other building-type choices rather than a separate existing-home checklist. (Application tree information)
The form’s four-item betterment-plan checklist asks for existing-tree, removal-tree and replacement-tree plans plus a cover letter; it is not labeled a universal existing-home checklist. (Betterment-plan checklist)
The Building Division publishes the Citizen Access Portal for applications and, if it is unavailable, email to [email protected] or in-person submission at City Hall. (Building Division application channels)
The current form provides fields for License Holder, Pasco County BTR No. (Occupational) and Arborist Certification Number; those fields are not themselves a published universal tree-worker credential rule. (Contractor information fields)
Use the Citizen Access Portal with applicable signatures and representative authorization. Account access is not authority to act for an association or company.
The Development Department lists Building Permit Info at 727-853-1047. (Development Department permit contact)
City Hall and the Development Department are at 5919 Main Street, New Port Richey, FL 34652. (City address)
Section 8.02.04(5) voids a permit if work does not start within one month on land under one-half acre or three months over one-half acre, permits written building-official extensions, and caps validity at six months, after which a new application is required. (8.02.04(5))
Additional project charges, not a single-tree quote
The FY 2026 to 2027 schedule lists a landscape-plan application at $250 per occurrence. (Landscape application fee, page 6) The FY 2026 to 2027 schedule lists a landscape-plan revision at $175 per occurrence. (Landscape revision fee, page 6) These landscape fees use the FY 2026 to 2027 schedule approved by Resolution 2026-26 on September 15, 2026; its effective clause was not located in the schedule and council records checked October 28, 2026. (September 15 minutes)
For additional site-plan, civil, building and consultant charges, use the complete fee schedule. The tree-permit row is not total project cost.
When will the committee approve removal?
Section 8.02.07(1)(a) permits removal where an approved structure or improvement location unreasonably restricts economic enjoyment and the tree cannot be relocated on or off site because of age, type or size. (8.02.07(1)(a))
Section 8.02.07(1)(b) lists disease, injury, danger of falling, location within ten feet of existing or proposed structures or five feet for palms, interference with existing utilities, unsafe vision clearance or conflict with other ordinances and regulations as removal criteria. (8.02.07(1)(b))
Section 8.02.07(1)(c) also allows a general-public or citizen welfare reason other than the listed grounds. (8.02.07(1)(c))
Section 8.02.07(2) requires committee consideration of significant adverse urban and natural environmental impacts. (8.02.07(2))
Section 8.02.07(2)(a) addresses ground and surface water stabilization in that review. (8.02.07(2)(a))
Section 8.02.07(2)(b) addresses water quality and aquifer recharge in that review. (8.02.07(2)(b))
Section 8.02.07(2)(c) addresses ecological impacts in that review. (8.02.07(2)(c))
Section 8.02.07(2)(d) addresses noise pollution in that review. (8.02.07(2)(d))
Section 8.02.07(2)(e) addresses air movement in that review. (8.02.07(2)(e))
Section 8.02.07(2)(f) addresses air quality in that review. (8.02.07(2)(f))
Section 8.02.07(2)(g) addresses wildlife habitat in that review. (8.02.07(2)(g))
Section 8.02.07(2)(h) addresses aesthetic degradation in that review. (8.02.07(2)(h))
Section 8.02.07(3) requires a denial to identify its specific basis and the criteria on which it rests. (8.02.07(3))
Can you appeal or seek a hardship waiver?
Section 8.02.15 allows an adversely affected person to appeal a committee interpretation or enforcement decision to city council by written notice to the city manager, copied to the city clerk, within ten days of the decision, accompanied by payment sufficient for publishing and mailing hearing notices. (8.02.15)
Section 8.02.14 allows the city manager or city council, on an appropriate written application, to vary or waive article terms because of unreasonable hardship in a specific case. (8.02.14)
Where do current city guidance and the code differ?
The current form says commercial removals require inch-for-inch compensation, a betterment plan or payment of $64.50 per shade-tree inch and $25 per palm-tree inch, whereas Section 8.02.08(1) prints $62.50 for shade trees in its threat-based waiver payment paragraph and uses valuation for ordinary impractical replacement. (Commercial application wording)
The form does not establish an amendment to the codified replacement rules. Obtain the city’s authority for the amount and category it applies.
Section 8.02.08(1) prints “eminent threat” and subsection (2) prints “imminent threat”; their duplicated waiver consequences and certifier lists also differ, without a published priority rule. (8.02.08(1) and (2))
Section 8.02.08(2) references “section 8.02.8.1,” which is not a section in the supplied whole code. (8.02.08(2))
Section 8.02.02(5) says the committee was established by Sections 2-147 through 2-150, which are not existing sections in the supplied code. (8.02.02(5))
Section 3.11.00 actually establishes the development review committee for review and coordination of new development and substantial redevelopment, with additional items schedulable by the city manager. (3.11.00)
How do you confirm city jurisdiction?
The city’s GIS Maps and Data page publishes City Limits Map options alongside zoning and future-land-use resources. (City limits and zoning maps)
Use that official boundary information with the Development Department, not the mailing city alone. For property outside New Port Richey, our Pasco County reference is the parent guide; our Pinellas city-versus-county guide is related reading only and does not cover this city.
Who controls right-of-way and utility-area trees?
Section 8.02.13 allows public-right-of-way tree removal only under the development review committee’s direction. (8.02.13)
Yard-waste contractors and disposal
Section 10-4(c) bars placing yard waste from substantial or total removal of vegetation from trees over eight inches DBH in a right-of-way or other public or private property; obtain city disposal direction rather than assuming curbside collection covers this work. (10-4(c))
Section 10-4(d) states: “All private contractors removing yard waste from properties within the city limits shall be licensed, bonded, and have sufficient company identification on all vehicles and equipment used for such activity.” (10-4(d))
Section 10-4(e) requires proper maintenance of traffic for private yard-waste contractors whether a permit is required or not, and prohibits blocking public sidewalks during work in city rights-of-way. (10-4(e))
What does the reviewed New Port Richey code leave unsettled?
Whole-code searches checked October 28, 2026 found no 163.045 reference, independent topping rule or separate ordinary private-tree pruning permit in Section 8.02; damage-removal and visibility rules remain. Tree-bank root pruning does not supply a general private-tree standard. (Tree protection; landscape standards)
Article 8.02 sets no special tree-contractor insurance amount or standalone tree-service credential requirement. General business, building, project and permit obligations remain.
Section 2-233(e) allows owners, tenants, occupants, architects, builders, contractors, agents and others who participate in, assist, direct, create or maintain a violation to be held responsible. (2-233(e))
Published records searched but not found
The current uniform fine schedule, tree-fund figure-setting markup/effective clauses and permit-fee resolution effective clause were not found in the code, application, fee schedule, Clerk listings, council, Finance or Code Enforcement records checked October 28, 2026. This does not establish nonexistence. (City Clerk; fee schedule; council archive)
Sources and scope
This guide uses the city’s Municode Code of Ordinances, Supplement 68, codified through Ordinance No. 2026-2351 adopted March 17, 2026, together with the current city application, fee schedule, department pages and linked state authorities.
Post-cutoff council records, Clerk listings and November 4, 2026 agendas were checked October 28, 2026; no Section 8.02, tree-fund or uniform-fine amendment was identified. September fee approval is reported separately; October 20 minutes were unlinked, limiting the check. (Council records; Clerk listings)
September 15, 2026 minutes record final approval of accessory-dwelling Ordinance 2026-2348; the posted text is an unsigned draft. (September 15 minutes)
It adds Chapter 12 tree-related parking relief, not revisions to the cited Chapter 7 tree/buffer standards. (Ordinance 2026-2348) Confirm the final text with Development for an accessory dwelling.
Where does this leave your tree or project?
A tree may be a candidate for removal or pruning, depending on species, setting and unresolved code boundaries. An on-site residential tree assessment can clarify your tree, not decide its permit.
Ken's Tree Service has worked since 1996 from Tarpon Springs, across approximately 20 miles covering north Pinellas County, west Pasco County and the northwest corner of Hillsborough County. New Port Richey is within that service area.
Keep property-specific plan questions with the city. Ken's Tree Service: 727-934-5804. To discuss an on-site residential tree assessment, use our website agent, the chat on this page.