Urban Forestry

The City of Gainesville’s Urban Forestry Division promotes the benefits of trees, maintains our urban forest to ensure diversity of age and species, mitigates canopy loss, minimizes hazards; and conserves the high-quality heritage trees that make Gainesville a Tree City USA! 

Beginning in 1983, Gainesville received the Tree City USA designation because of the combined efforts of the City Beautification Board (CBB), the Gainesville Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs Department (PRCA) and the Florida Division of Forestry. Today, Gainesville stands proud in its 4th decade as a Tree City USA.

Attention Gainesville property owners: Please be aware of the following regulations regarding tree removal within the City of Gainesville.

Tree Removal Permit Requirements:

• For all land uses except single-family dwellings: A permit is required to remove any living tree with a trunk diameter of 8 inches or greater.
• For single-family dwellings (existing structures only) on land zoned for single-family use: A permit is required for the removal of any living tree with a trunk diameter of 20 inches or greater.
• Exclusions: These regulations do not apply to invasive tree species.

Permits for tree removal are free of charge and must be obtained prior to any work being done.

Choosing a Tree Surgeon:
When hiring a tree professional, we strongly recommend selecting a Certified Arborist. Certified Arborists are trained to provide expert tree care and adhere to the highest industry standards. To find a Certified Arborist in your area, please visit treesaregood.org Find an Arborist. 

Your cooperation helps maintain Gainesville's urban forest and supports a healthier, more sustainable environment for our community.