Trees, A Natural Resource Warranting Protection

By: John Schrecengost Manager, Natural Resources Section, Transportation & Land Development Review Division

Since the origin of time, trees have benefited our Earth in ways that many of us cannot comprehend.  A major component of Earth’s vegetative composition, trees benefit our environment by improving air quality through oxygen production, sequestering carbon to reduce the green house effect, conserving energy by protecting surroundings from sun and wind, cooling the air through evapotranspiration, reducing stormwater run off and erosion, improving water quality and providing habitat for wildlife.

Trees also benefit mankind through aesthetic economic and social means.  Aesthetically, they contribute to the beauty of our open spaces as well as screen unwanted views.  Economically, trees contribute to increase residential and commercial property values; attract visitors, new businesses and new residents; increase the rental rates of apartments and offices; encourage shopper-lingering by cooling and beautifying the shopping environment; and defer maintenance on materials that are degraded by sunlight and heat.  Socially, psychological studies have found that trees reduce stress and enhance mental health; enhance medical recovery rates; enhance community pride; heal and restore communities from natural or man-induced tragedies; and increase recreational opportunities.  Trees are a tremendous community equalizer, contributing to our health and welfare.  Their contributions are recognized by communities worldwide as well as our local jurisdictions, which includes Hillsborough County.

The Hillsborough County’s Comprehensive Plan recognizes the various values that tree provide to our community.  Through the Policies and Objectives of the Comprehensive Plan, the County has adopted ordinances that protect the indiscriminate removal of this valued resource.  The Planning and Growth Management Department’s Natural Resource Section, represented by staff who are foresters and certified arborists, administers the regulations of the Land Development Code (LDC) protecting trees.  LDC Article 4.0, Protection of Trees and Other Vegetation, covers the permitting, protection, and replacement provisions for various activities affecting the tree resource.  Trees that are an area five inches in trunk diameter and larger are protected for all new developments; however, trees measuring 12 inches in trunk diameter and larger on residential lots, where the principal structure exists, are only protected.

FAST FACT:  

During the 3-month period from March through May of this year, Planning & Growth Management’s administration of the Land Development Code’s tree and landscape ordinances for new developments resulted in the required planting of 2,362 trees and the required protection of 1,603 existing trees.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTION:   Do I need a permit to remove a tree from my residential property?

A tree removal permit is required for the removal of a tree(s) on residential properties.  For residential properties, vacant or under construction, all trees measuring 5 inches DBH (tree trunk diameter measured 4.5 feet above the ground surface) and larger require a tree removal permit.  For residential properties on which the principal dwelling exists, only trees measuring 12 inches DBH and larger require a tree removal permit. 

Trees that are dead or are identified as exempt do not require a permit.  For a listing of exempt trees, please review Land Development Code (LDC) Article 12.0, definition of an exempt tree.  More information on the LDC can be accessed through the Planning and Growth Management Department’s website at www.hillsboroughcounty.org/pgm/zoning/landdev.cfm