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Tree Removal Permits in Inverness & Citrus County, FL
A common question from Inverness homeowners: do I need a permit to take down a tree on my own property? The honest answer is "sometimes." This article gives the general picture. It is not legal advice, and rules change, so always confirm with the local government before work starts.
Florida's 2019 law on dangerous trees
In 2019 Florida passed a law (section 163.045, Florida Statutes) that says a local government may not require a permit, application, fee or replanting to prune, trim or remove a tree on residential property if the property owner has documentation from an ISA Certified Arborist or a Florida licensed landscape architect that the tree is a danger to people or property. Keep that documentation. It is your protection if anyone asks later.
When rules may still apply
- Healthy trees that aren't documented as dangerous may fall under local tree protection rules.
- City of Inverness vs. unincorporated county. If you live inside Inverness city limits, city rules apply; elsewhere, Citrus County rules apply.
- Commercial and development land. Clearing for new construction usually goes through site plan and land development review.
- Wetlands, shorelines and lakefront lots on the Tsala Apopka chain or the Withlacoochee River can have extra limits.
- Protected species. Gopher tortoise burrows, common in Citrus County's sandy soil, are protected by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
- HOAs and deed restrictions. Your homeowners' association may have its own rules even when the county doesn't.
How to check
- Find out whether you are in the City of Inverness or unincorporated Citrus County (your tax bill or the property appraiser's site shows this).
- Call the city or county planning or building office and ask about tree removal on residential lots.
- Check your HOA documents.
- If the tree is dangerous, get it documented by an ISA Certified Arborist.
Ask your tree company
Local tree service companies deal with these rules all the time. Ask them whether your job needs anything special, and who is responsible for any paperwork. Get that in writing on the quote.
Utility lines
Trees touching main power lines are the utility's responsibility to clear. Call Duke Energy or Withlacoochee River Electric Cooperative, whichever serves you, before anyone cuts near those lines.
Ready to get a quote? See tree removal in Inverness, land clearing, or the cost guide.
Questions people ask
Do I need a permit to remove a dead tree in Inverness?
Under Florida law, if an ISA Certified Arborist or licensed landscape architect documents that a tree on residential property is dangerous, local governments generally can't require a permit. Confirm current rules with the city or county.
Who clears trees from power lines?
The electric utility handles main lines. Call them before anyone works near a line.
Get a free quote
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Inverness Tree Removal is a free referral service. We do not perform tree work and do not hold a contractor license. Calls and requests are passed to independent, local tree service companies who set their own prices, do the work, and are solely responsible for it. Always ask any company for proof of insurance and a written quote before work starts.