🌳 Do I Need a Permit to Remove a Tree in Orlando?

If you’re planning to remove a tree on your property in the Orlando area, you might be wondering whether you need a permit. The answer depends on your location, property type, and the condition of the tree. The good news? Kevin’s Tree Service can help you navigate the entire process—from obtaining a permit to providing a Certified Arborist Letter that may allow you to bypass permitting altogether.

Here’s what you need to know if you live in Orange or Seminole County, including specific cities like Oviedo, Altamonte Springs, Sanford, Winter Park, Winter Springs, and Longwood.

🏡 The Certified Arborist Letter Exemption

Under Florida Statute §163.045, if a Certified Arborist (with TRAQ credentials) or a Florida-licensed landscape architect determines that a tree poses a danger to people or property, you may remove it without a permit—even if your local jurisdiction normally requires one.

Kevin’s Tree Service offers free estimates and can inspect your tree to determine if it qualifies. If it does, we’ll issue the proper documentation to keep you in compliance with state law and save you the hassle of applying for a permit.

🌆 Tree Removal Regulations by Area

Orlando (City Limits)

Most tree removals require a permit. However, if your tree is hazardous, we can provide a Certified Arborist Letter to exempt you from the permit.
Let Kevin’s Tree Service handle the inspection and paperwork.

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Orange County (Unincorporated Areas)

Tree removal for trees over 4 inches in diameter usually requires a permit. If your tree is dangerous, a Certified Arborist Letter can take the place of the permit.
We’ll determine the best route—either issuing the letter or managing the permitting process for you.

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Seminole County (Unincorporated Areas)
If your residential lot is under 5 acres and developed, no permit is needed in most cases. For larger properties or undeveloped lots, permits are generally required—but you may still qualify for exemption with an arborist letter.

We’ll assess your tree and advise the simplest legal path forward.

🌳 City-Specific Regulations

Oviedo

You typically need a permit for canopy trees, but not for palms or fruit trees. If your tree is hazardous, Kevin’s Tree Service can provide documentation to waive the permit.
Skip the paperwork—we’ve got you covered.

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Altamonte Springs

Tree removal usually requires a permit and, in some neighborhoods, HOA approval. If your tree is a danger, our arborist letter can exempt you from needing city permits.
We’ll coordinate everything for you, including any HOA documentation.

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Sanford

Permits are typically needed, but dangerous trees are exempt with proper documentation.
We’ll inspect, certify, and help you avoid unnecessary red tape.

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Winter Springs

Trees 4 inches DBH or larger require a permit unless they are hazardous, dead, or diseased.
Let our certified arborists evaluate your tree and take care of either the permit or the documentation.

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Longwood (Sabal Point HOA)

Tree removal often requires HOA approval, even if city permits aren’t needed.
We’ll assist with certified documentation and help coordinate with your HOA.

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Winter Park

Winter Park has some of the strictest tree protection laws in Central Florida. Tree removal generally requires a permit, especially for trees over 6 inches in diameter or those considered “protected species.”
However, under Florida law, if the tree poses a risk and a Certified Arborist Letter confirms it, you may be exempt from permitting.
Kevin’s Tree Service will evaluate the tree, provide the necessary documentation, or manage the permit process to ensure full compliance.

🌿 Contact Kevin’s Tree Service First

Before you try to figure it out yourself, let us handle it all for you. Whether your tree needs a Certified Arborist Letter or a full permit application, Kevin’s Tree Service offers:

• 🪵 Free estimates

• 🌳 On-site evaluations by certified arborists

• 📄 Official documentation to exempt you from permitting (if applicable)

• 📝 Complete permitting assistance if needed

• 💬 Help with HOA and city paperwork

• 👉 Visit kevinstreeservices.com or call us today to schedule your free consultation. We’ll take care of the trees—and the paperwork.