Tree Removal permit in Melbourne, FL
Yes — you need a permit for tree removal work in Melbourne.
You need a tree removal permit before you take down a tree. The code says tree removal is allowed only after the tree removal permit is approved. The text in view does not give the trunk size that makes a tree protected, or whether single-family lots have any break.
| Permit needed? | Yes |
|---|---|
| Where the line falls | You need a tree removal permit before you take down a tre… |
| Fee | Not in the ordinance — the department quotes it |
| Review time | Not in the ordinance |
| Code section | Sec. 9.272; penalty Sec. 9.277 |
| Based on | City of Melbourne Land Development Code, Ch. 9, Art. XV |
How to pull the permit
- Put together a site plan showing where the work goes, with dimensions.
- Apply through the Melbourne building department.
- Pay the permit fee when the permit is issued. Work done before that isn't covered.
- Book each inspection listed on the permit as the job reaches that stage.
If you skip it
Tree removal or land-disturbing work done in violation of the tree rules makes the offender subject to the penalties in Sec. 9.277.
Nearby cities, same job
Rules stop at the city line. If your lot is near a boundary, or you work across several towns, this is where they differ.
| City | Distance | Permit? | Where the line falls |
|---|---|---|---|
| Melbourne | — | Yes | You need a tree removal permit before you take down a tre… |
| Orlando | 42 mi | Depends | From 10 |
| Kissimmee | 48 mi | Depends | You usually need a Tree Removal Permit to take down a pro… |
| Port St. Lucie | 60 mi | Depends | You need a tree removal permit to take down a protected t… |
| Deltona | 64 mi | Yes | You cannot cut, move, remove, or destroy any regulated tr… |
| Tampa | 111 mi | Depends | You need a permit to remove a protected or grand tree, ev… |
Other work in Melbourne
Questions people ask
I already built it without a permit. What now?
Melbourne can issue a stop-work order and require you to apply after the fact, sometimes with an extra fee. Work that was covered up may have to be opened for inspection. Full walkthrough here.
Does unpermitted work cause problems when selling the house?
Often, yes. A buyer's inspector or the title company may flag it, and lenders can balk at financing a home with open or missing permits. What to do about it.