Outdoor
Tree Removal: Cost, Permits & Timeline
Removing a tree and optionally grinding the stump. Florida law exempts trees documented as a danger by an arborist, but many cities still regulate protected and heritage species.
Verified August 2026
Typical cost
$1,400
$450 – $5,500
per tree
$450 – $5,500
Permit
Depends
$0 – $300
Timeline
Same day to 2 days
Same day to 2 days, 1-4 weeks if a permit is required
Do you need a permit for tree removal?
It depends on scope
Cosmetic, like-for-like tree removal work is often exempt. A permit is required as soon as you change structure, plumbing, electrical or the building envelope.
What drives the cost
- Tree height, species and trunk diameter
- Proximity to the house and power lines
- Crane or bucket truck access
- Stump grinding and debris haul-off
- Emergency post-storm service
Permit, inspections and documents
| Permit status | conditional |
|---|---|
| Typical permit fee | $0 – $300 |
| Licensed contractor required | Not always |
| Owner-builder allowed | Yes, on owner-occupied homes |
| Inspections | |
| Timeline | Same day to 2 days, 1-4 weeks if a permit is required |
| DIY difficulty | 5/5 difficulty |
Documents typically required
- • Tree removal permit application in many municipalities
- • Arborist letter certifying the tree is a danger, where required
- • Proof of contractor liability insurance
Tree Removal cost by city
Local labor and material pricing applied to the national baseline.
| City | Typical range | vs national |
|---|---|---|
| Miami | $500 – $6,500 | +18% |
| Tampa | $500 – $5,700 | +4% |
| Orlando | $500 – $5,600 | +2% |
| Fort Lauderdale | $500 – $6,300 | +14% |
| Jacksonville | $400 – $5,300 | -4% |
| West Palm Beach | $500 – $6,200 | +12% |
| St. Petersburg | $500 – $5,700 | +3% |
| Fort Myers | $500 – $6,000 | +9% |
| Cape Coral | $500 – $5,900 | +7% |
| Sarasota | $500 – $5,900 | +8% |
| Naples | $600 – $6,800 | +24% |
| Port St. Lucie | $500 – $5,600 | +2% |
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Florida?
Florida Statute 163.045 lets a residential property owner remove a tree without a local permit when a certified arborist or licensed landscape architect documents that it poses an unacceptable risk. Otherwise, most cities require a permit for protected species above a size threshold.
Sources
Sources & verification
Last verified August 2026. Cost figures are modeled estimates based on national baselines adjusted for local labor and material pricing — they are not quotes. Permit rules change; confirm with the building department before starting work.