LEGACY TREES IN NORTH PORT

Before buying a lot, check for legacy trees.

Determining the exact cost of removing a legacy tree in North Port, FL, requires several factors:

• Tree characteristics:

  • Species: Certain tree species require specialized equipment or have additional complexities affecting the removal process.
  • Size: Larger trees (diameter and height) generally cost more to remove due to increased labor, equipment needs, and potential risks.
  • Location: Trees close to power lines, buildings, or other structures require extra caution and planning, impacting the cost.
  • Health: Diseased or hazardous trees might necessitate additional safety measures, influencing the price.

• Permitting:

  • Heritage tree status: North Port has regulations regarding heritage trees. Removing them requires a permit and incurs mitigation fees based on the tree's diameter. You can find details and fees in the City's Unified Land Development Code https://www.northportfl.gov/Building-Planning/Natural-Resources/Tree-Removal-Arborist-Services.

• Removal services:

  • Company expertise: Experienced and insured arborists typically charge more than general tree removal services.
  • Services included: Some companies might include stump grinding, hauling away debris, and site cleanup in their base price, while others might charge extra.

Here's a breakdown of the estimated costs:

• Standard tree removal: This could range from $150 to $500+ for smaller trees with easy access.
• Large or complex removals: Expect costs to climb significantly, potentially reaching $1,000 or more depending on the factors mentioned earlier.
• Heritage tree removal: The permit fee itself can be substantial. The base fee is $100 per diameter inch at breast height (DBH) of the tree, with additional mitigation costs potentially involved. This is a minimum of $2,400.

Recommendations for accurate cost estimation:

• Contact local North Port tree removal companies: They can provide a free assessment of your specific tree and offer a personalized quote considering the factors mentioned above.
• Inquire about permitting requirements: Check with the City of North Port to determine if your tree falls under heritage tree regulations and the associated fees https://www.northportfl.gov/Building-Planning/Natural-Resources/Tree-Removal-Arborist-Services.

Additional resources:

• City of North Port - Tree Removal & Arborist Services: https://www.northportfl.gov/Building-Planning/Natural-Resources/Tree-Removal-Arborist-Services
• North Port - 131-application-for-a-tree-removal-permit.pdf: https://www.northportfl.gov/Building-Planning/Natural-Resources/Tree-Removal-Arborist-S

What is the minimum diameter of a legacy tree in north port, Fl?

North Port, FL, doesn't directly specify a minimum diameter for a legacy tree in its official documentation. However, the focus lies on the diameter at breast height (DBH) impacting the permitting process and potential removal fees.

Here's what North Port regulations entail regarding tree removal:

• Unified Land Development Code (ULDC): Chapter 45 of the ULDC outlines tree protection regulations https://www.northportfl.gov/Building-Planning/Natural-Resources/Tree-Preservation.

• Key points:

  • Section 45-11 defines a heritage tree as any healthy, native, canopy tree with a DBH of 24 inches or greater.
  • Removing a heritage tree requires a permit and incurs mitigation fees based on the tree's DBH. The base fee starts at $100 per inch of DBH. https://www.northportfl.gov/Building-Planning/Natural-Resources/Tree-Preservation

Therefore, while there's no strict minimum diameter for a "legacy tree," trees with a DBH of 24 inches or greater receive special protection and require additional permitting procedures in North Port.

Here are some resources for further information:

• City of North Port - Tree Removal & Arborist Services: https://www.northportfl.gov/Building-Planning/Natural-Resources/Tree-Removal-Arborist-Services
• North Port - 131-application-for-a-tree-removal-permit.pdf: https://www.northportfl.gov/Building-Planning/Natural-Resources/Tree-Removal-Arborist-Services

Remember, it's crucial to consult with the City of North Port or a certified arborist before removing any tree, especially if unsure about its size or potential heritage status. They can provide specific guidance and ensure proper procedures are followed.