Tree Permits

Examples of Good Tree Canopy

City of Doral Public Works Tree Removal / Replacement Guidelines
The City of Doral after incorporation, initially adopted the Miami-Dade County codes. Section 24.49 of the Miami-Dade County Code mandate for the protection of tree’s and forests. In 2010, the City adopted its own "Code of Ordinances". Under Chapter 71, Section 5, are the requirements for tree removal and preservation.

The City of Doral Public Works Department (PWD) encourages the planting of trees and maintaining the canopy (shade provided by the extent of the branches and foliage of a tree). Our codes mandate for the protection of trees and requires that trees that are going to be removed are replaced in order to mitigate the loss of canopy which benefits the community in many different ways. Planting trees is a simple and beautiful way to revamp and improve our City shade. They also provide clean air, help reduce traffic impact, help reduce high temperature and increase property value. The planting of trees also contributes to the re-certification of the City of Doral as a "TREE CITY USA".

The Miami-Dade County, Regulatory and Economic Resources Department (RER), Tree Permitting Program regulates and enforces removal and replacement of trees and forests. You may click visit their website at www.miamidade.gov or click on this link to access their Tree Removal Permit Requirements at Miami-Dade County Tree Removal Permits.

If you need to remove, replacement and/or relocate a tree, these criteria need to be followed:

• If the trees are in City of Doral public right-of-way, you are required to pull a permit from RER and from PWD.
• If the trees are in County public right-of-way, you will need a permit from RER. 
• If the trees are in private property, depending on the type of tree, you will be required to have a permit from RER.

If you decide to plant a tree in front of your home, remember that early tree care is critical and can help reduce future maintenance needs. Early tree care includes watering, adjusting the stakes, mulching, weeding and pruning. Be sure to hire a contractor with experience caring for young trees, or do it yourself by first taking advantage of the many educational resources available including workshops through Miami-Dade County Extension Office – Solutions for Your Life - UF Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences.

Additional Resources:
Recommended Street Tree Species - Miami-Dade

The City of Doral strongly encourages property owners to consult a certified arborist, who has been certified by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) before you perform maintenance work on mature trees because they are properly trained to provide assistance for the care of larger trees. Also, be careful when having your tree pruned - It is illegal to top a tree (see photo below).
Fines will be issued to property owners who compromise the safety and health of street trees. If you should have any questions about tree care, proper maintenance techniques, please email us at publicworks@cityofdoral.com or visit our website for useful links that provide more information at City of Doral - Public Works.