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File ID: #1399
Ordinance
Second Reading
Sponsored by: Ken Russell, Vice Chair
AN ORDINANCE OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION AMENDING CHAPTER 17 OF THE
CODE OF THE CITY OF MIAMI, FLORIDA, AS AMENDED, ENTITLED "ENVIRONMENTAL
PRESERVATION", TO CLARIFY PROCEDURES FOR THE TRIMMING, PRUNING, OR
REMOVAL OF TREES IN THE CITY OF MIAMI; CONTAINING A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE
AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
City of Miami File ID: 1399 (Revision: C) Printed On: 7/19/2018
File Number: 1399
City of Miami
Legislation
Ordinance
Enactment Number: 13670
Final Action Date: 3/23/2017
AN ORDINANCE OF THE MIAMI CITY COMMISSION AMENDING CHAPTER 17 OF
THE CODE OF THE CITY OF MIAMI, FLORIDA, AS AMENDED, ENTITLED
"ENVIRONMENTAL PRESERVATION", TO CLARIFY PROCEDURES FOR THE
TRIMMING, PRUNING, OR REMOVAL OF TREES IN THE CITY OF MIAMI;
CONTAINING A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE
DATE.
WHEREAS, on May 13, 2010, the City Commission adopted Ordinance No. 13174 in
order to promote Tree protection and environmental preservation and address the stewardship
of the living features in the City of Miami, Florida ("City"), which includes its topographic,
geological and landscape features; and
WHEREAS, on June 23, 2011, the City Commission adopted Ordinance No. 13274 to
address foliage and root pruning of Trees in the City; and
WHEREAS, these regulations concern architectural, aesthetic, environmental, cultural,
and historic concerns within the City; and
WHEREAS, the protection of the Tree canopy and environmental features within the City
is of paramount importance; and
WHEREAS, the current iteration of Chapter 17 of the Code of the City of Miami, Florida
("City Code"), as written, is cumbersome to interpret and lacks clarity in certain portions thereof;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
MIAMI, FLORIDA:
Section 1. The recitals and findings contained in the Preamble to this Ordinance are
adopted by reference and incorporated as if fully set forth in this Section.
Section 2. Chapter 17 of the City Code, entitled "Environmental Preservation" is
amended in the following particulars:'
"ARTICLE I.
TREE PROTECTION IN GENERAL
Sec. 17-1. Intent and purpose.
1 Words and/or figures stricken through shall be deleted. Underscored words and/or figures shall be
added. The remaining provisions are now in effect and remain unchanged. Asterisks indicate omitted and
unchanged material.
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The intent of this article is to protect, preserve and restore the tree canopy within the City of
Miami ("city") by regulating the removal, relocation, pruning, planting and trimming of trees.
The purpose of this article is to assure that the design and construction of all development
activity is executed in a manner consistent with the preservation of existing trees to the
greatest extent possible.
Sec. 17-2. Definitions.
For the purposes of this article, the following words and phrases shall have the meaning
respectively ascribed to them by this section=. Definitions for industry terms are based on the
American National Standards Institute A-300 Standards for Tree Care Operations - Tree, Shrub,
and other Woody Plant Management - Standard Practices (most recent edition; containing all
Parts); International Society of Arboriculture Glossary of Arboricultural Terms (most recent
edition); and University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Science Bulletin SS -FOR -11
Forest Terminology for Multiple -Use Management.
American National Standards Institute A-300 Tree Care Standards Manual ("ANSI A-300
Standards"): +s -,a -A tree manual which establishes performance standards for the care and
maintenance of trees, shrubs, and other woody plants. These are the industry standards for
Arboriculture or Urban Forestry used by the industry and many governing agencies as the
minimum standards of practice for care and maintenance of Trees, shrubs, and other woody
plants. These are the generally accepted industry standards for Tree care practices written by
the Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA) to develop consensus performance standards for
Trees, shrubs, and other woody plants.
Applicant: A person who is the owner, authorized agent of the owner, or lessee of a property
under a written lease authorized to apply for a 1961+Id+Rg Tree permit.
Arboriculture: The cultivation, management, and study of woody plants, especially Trees.
Bark: Protective outer covering of branches and Stems outside of the cambium.
Buildable area: The portion of the site exclusive of the required yard areas as defined by the
zoning ordinance of the city and its successors.
Cambium: A thin laver of cells under the Bark of Trees that produces growth of new tissue.
Canopy: The collective branches and foliage of a Crown of a Tree or group of Tree Crowns,
usually represented as Canopy diameter measured across the Canopy from Drip Line to Drip
Line at an average Canopy width.
Canopy Coverage: The aerial extent of ground within the Drip Line of the Tree, usually
represented as square feet of Canopy area.
Certificate of approval: A written document permitting tree removal or development activity
within those areas identified and established as environmental preservation districts or scenic
transportation corridors.
(1) Standard certificate of approval. A written document issued by the preservation
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officer for tree permits located within an environmental preservation district.
(2) Special certificate of approval. A written document issued by the historic and
environmental preservation board (11HEPB1') where the board must decide if a major
addition, removal or alteration of trees meets the requirements of this article. This certificate
will be considered by HEPB in accordance with the procedures for a special certificate of
appropriateness in ;Section 23-6(4 23-6.2 of the City Code, as amended.
Certified Arborist: Also known as a ISA Certified Arborist. A person who has successfully
completed the testing program administered by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA)
to be an ISA Certified Arborist, with a current valid Certification Number. This person must be
trained and knowledgeable in all aspects of Arboriculture as relevant to the conditions of Trees
within the City.
Certified Arborist Report: A report issued by a Certified Arborist that, at a minimum, shall contain
data for each existing Tree in the applicable Tree Boundary Survey as follows: species; DBH as
defined herein; height; Canopy spread; health condition; opinions regarding current condition;
recommended Tree Activity, if any; and color photographs of Trees which shall depict sufficient
detail to support the oainion of the Certified Arborist.
Code Compliance: The department responsible for the enforcement of the City Code, as further
described in Chapter 2, Article X.
Code enforcement board: The code enforcement board of the city as appointed pursuant to
chapter 2, article X. For purposes of this article, "code enforcement board" shall be
synonymous with and have all powers of the special master. The terms may be used
interchangeably.
Construction: See Development activity.
Controlled tree species: These Ttree species listed in the most recent edition of the Miami -
Landscape Manual which can become invasive in +e1,r1 +e he,+nme n1lican,+ec
he,+;;1 IQe of their chili+., +n iRyade preximal native plant communities ^r n.Ati"e h.Rhitatc 1961t
WhiGh, if when not located in, and cultivated properly, may he useful er fl Irin+leRal as elervlerltc
e# as part of a managed landscape design.
Critical Root Zone: Also known as a CRZ. The CRZ is as large or larger than the minimum
recommended Root area for a Tree as stated in the ANSI A-300 Standards for transplanting
Trees, usually measured and presented as Root ball diameter.
Crown The uppeF paFt of a d frem the lewest bFaRGh ORG16idi g all
bFaRGhes and feline A portion of an individual Tree above the main Stem, consisting of live
branches and foliage.
Crown Cover: The percentage of a given area that is covered by the vertical prosection of the
Crowns of Trees.
Diameter at Breast Height ("DBH"): The diameter at breast height of a Tree trunk, measured at
four and one half feet (4%2') above ground level (surface grade or soil grade). In the case of
multi -stemmed Trees. the DBH is a calculation of the sum of the DBH of each trunk measured
at four and one half feet (4%2') above ground level.
Dead tree: A tree whish haG rte vital fl +ieRG A Tree which is not actively transporting water
and nutrients from Roots to leaves, and is exhibiting symptoms such as decay, brittleness, rot,
non -seasonal defoliation, substantial loss of its branches, or other signs of substantial
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deterioration.
Department: The department of r^de P—Afnrnomon+ er that departrnep effino in whish the nnrlo
iRspestGFS as -defined i apter 2, art+sTe X area Planning and Zoning, which is
responsible for review and issuance of Tree permits.
Development activity: The carrying out of any building construction that requires issuance of a
permit by the City, including without limitation building construction, additions (including but
not limited to additions of carports, pools, decks, fences, driveways, and parking lots),
modifications, demolition, or making any material alteration to the use or exterior
appearance of any structure erste.
Drip line:
+roo b.F rRAGhEBC and P-Ae diRg +„ the gFG Hnr7. The area defined by the outermost circumference
of a Tree's branches where water drips from and onto the ground.
Environmental preservation districts: Geographical areas, parcels or corridors, which have
been or may be identified, are established by the city commission as significant natural or
manmade attributes in need of preservation and control because of their educational,
economic, ecological and environmental importance to the welfare of the general public and
the city as a whole. The city's environmental preservation districts are designated in an atlas
kept on file with the department of planning.
Environmentally significant feature: Natural or manmade artifacts, sites or features which
possess attributes in need of preservation and control because of their economic, educational
or environmental importance to the welfare of the general public and the city as a whole.
Environmentally significant features include all trees within the city and specifically designated
natural, topographical or geological formations, mangrove areas, natural hammocks, unique
scenic vistas or transportation corridors and rare and valuable plant material.
Exotic tree species: A plant species that has be introduced from another country or
geographic ether regions, and outside its natural range, which may become naturalized or
invasive, IC REE Rata a to the Fegi R to whish it i� it+r�lJi,nor! but is not native or indigenous to a
region.
Fatally diseased tree: A tree
is RE) Lr+ew effeGtive ni IFe E)r tFeatmeRt whish that has been identified with a disease that is not
curable by known industry standard pest control treatments or has visible damage from a
disease and may include secondary stresses related to a disease. A Fatally Diseased Tree may
be considered a High -Risk Tree.
Florida Grades and Standards: The standards for determining the quality of nursery stock being
grown, sold and/or used in landscape projects in Florida. These are based on the Grades and
Standards for Nursery Plants as published by the most current edition of the Florida Department
of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
Girdling: The Femeval of a stFip of bark from aFeU d a stem eF +ri Rk se as to ble& +ho
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rin,n,n,n,arrl mn„emen+ of garbehydrates Girrllinn ised to kil la tree Tree Abuse in the form of
restriction or destruction of the vascular system within a Root, Stem, or branch of a Tree that
causes inhibition of the flow of water and nutrients, usually accomplished by removal of Bark
and Cambium around all or most of the circumference of a Tree branch or Stem.
Grade: The ground level of a subject property measi firing the degree of rice er rlesgen+ of a
sinning si irfage
Hatracking (tepp+Rg): Th,4-r�ucti8rni-nAf tFeQ siize icing inter_nnrlei fi
l ntsyAthe it renew! to tree
heal+h nr+ri,g+� gyral in+egri+,,. Also known as Topping. A form of Tree Abuse in the form of the
reduction of Tree size using heading cuts that shorten limbs or branches back to a
predetermined Crown limit. Hatracking involves indiscriminate cutting back of branches between
nodes.
High -Risk Trees: A Tree that is in a location where risks to persons or property exist, including
Trees that have an identifiable part or parts with a high potential for failing and a high potential
to strike a foreseeable target resulting in significant consequences within a short time -frame.
The determination of whether a Tree is a High -Risk Tree shall be made by the Department upon
assessing the supporting risks.
Homestead Property: A property that receives a homestead exemption as determined and listed
by the Miami -Dade County Property Appraiser's Office. This exemption must be current to be
applicable.
Homestead Resident: A person or persons living in a residence that receive a homestead
exemption as determined and listed by the Miami -Dade County Property Appraiser's Office.
This exemption must be current to be applicable.
Internode/Internodal: The region of a Tree's Stem between two (2) successive nodes: length of
a branch or Stem arowina between the Nodes.
Landscape manual: The Miami -Dade County Landscape Manual, latest edition, which is the
official landscape manual issued by Miami -Dade County, Florida, and incorporated herein by
reference. The landscape manual, as amended from time to time, is adopted by reference by
the city and deemed incorporated by reference as if set forth herein. If a conflict arises
between the landscape manual and this article, the latter shall prevail.
Lion's Tailing: A form of Tree Abuse in which the removal of an excessive number of inner,
lateral branches from parent branches results in a Tree having the majority of foliage in the
outer portions of the Canopy.
Main Stem (or Main Trunk): The portion of a Tree between ground level and the point of division
into major branches.
Native tree species: molar+ spegies with geegraph,g distFib tiOR iRdigeRG is to all er part of
Miami Dade GeURty. PlaRtS whiGh aFe deSGFibed as beiRg Rative te Miami Dade GeuRty
nlaRt spegies within the meaRiRg e_f this ldef,n,+,gr4 An indigenous species that is normally
found as part of an ecosystem. A species present in a defined area or region of the United
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States prior to European settlement.
Node: Slightly enlarged portion of a Stem where leaves and buds arise.
Owner: Any person, entity, corporation, partnership, trust, holding company, limited liability
company or any other legally recognized entity that is the legal, beneficial, or equitable owner
of any interest whatsoever in the property. Owner shall include any purchaser, assignee,
successor, or transferee of any interest whatsoever in the property regarding any provisions of
this article.
Palm (or Palm Tree): Monocotyledonous plant of the Palmacea family. A type of Tree that is an
un -branched evergreen Tree of tropical and warm regions, with a Crown of very long feathered
or fan -shaped leaves, and typically having old leaf scars forming a regular pattern on the Trunk.
Person: As per the definition set forth in section 1-2 of the City Code.
Prohibited tree species: These tree spe^iec that are detrimental to native plaRtc native
Wildlife, eGGSY6teFnS, health, safety er welfare. tFee SpeGleS !RG. --.--
these rlecigRated in the Miami -Dade GG inty A species of Tree listed as a prohibited species in
the current edition of the Landscape Manual .;;1-1 Ad-, Cin1 1-, BeniamiRa/\ eepiRg Pirr as well as
Weeping Fig Trees (Ficus beniamina).
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Public Right -of -Way: See Right -of -Way as defined in Section 55-1 of the City Code, as
amended.
Registered Landscape Architect: A Person who holds a license to practice landscape
architecture in Florida as authorized by Chapter 481, Florida Statutes.
Replacement er rep!aGervrtrees: These tree/c\ that are pla Rterd fer the r uFpeses of
this aFtiGleAlso known as Mitigation Tree. Trees that are proposed to be used as replacement
for Trees being removed from a property.
Root: The part of a Tree, usually underground, that anchors the Tree to the ground and also
absorbs and conducts water and nutrients to all parts of the Tree.
Root pruning
Temeval ef FneFe-thaR teR peFceRt of a tFeFeet system . The cutting of Roots to limit their
vertical or lateral growth, the process of pre-cutting Roots behind the line of a planned
excavation to prevent tearing and splintering of remaining Roots, any removal of Roots one inch
(11 in diameter or greater, and/or the removal of more than ten percent (10%) of a Tree's Root
system. Root Pruning of more than ten percent (10%) of a Tree's Root system requires a Tree
Permit.
City of Miami File ID: 1399 (Revision: C) Printed On: 7/19/2018
Scenic transportation corridor: Those roadways identified by the state or by the city
commission resolution as having a unique landscape, an expansive tree canopy and/or
unique landscape features that is of substantial environmental or scenic importance to
residents and visitors.
Shrub: A woody, perennial plant separated from a Tree by its lower mature height [generally
under twenty feet (20')1, and showing the lack of a well-defined main Trunk, often multi -
stemmed.
Site plan: A comprehensive plan drawn to scale indicating site elevations, roadways and
location of all relevant site improvements including structures, parking, other paved areas,
ingress and egress drives, landscaped open space and signage.
Sound nursery practices: The practices or procedures of landscape nurseryies that meet or
exceed the Florida Grades and Standards *thatr--eniply with the sta",daras set by the
state `•loner+mon+ of ;nriri 1lti ,re and- ennci inner ceFVieec
Special master: The person(s) appointed pursuant to chapter 2, article X. For purposes of this
article, the special master shall be synonymous with and have all powers of the code
enforcement board. The terms may be used interchangeably.
Spiking:
+roe Ar i+cits rnn+ c�ic+em CniLinn is of+en ice`•I +e bill a tree A form of Tree Abuse in which there is
the hammering or affixing of metal or other material into a Tree to harm the Tree or lower its
commercial value. or anv damaae to the Trunk of a Tree caused by use of climbina spikes.
Spread: The average diameter of the crown. The average diameter of the Tree Canopy or
Crown as measured across the Canopy in at least two (2) directions from Drip Line to Drip Line
of farthest reaching branches.
Specimen tree: A tFee withaRY iRdividual 46IRk F a -multiple tFURk tFee-the sum of the
eveli des the felleWiRg•
fri,it , ORG' ilJiRg, b it ret limited te• FnaRgec, iaVeGades er spenies of nim c•
,
(2) N13 ;-Rat+ve sp ecus -Eft h e g eR616 F i G 616; ana
/'2�TtFee�rthe palm family.
A Tree that is equal to or larger than eighteen inches (18") DBH. Trees that do not qualify as
Specimen Trees are Palms, non-native Ficus species, or any non-native fruit Tree cultivated
as a grove Tree for commercial production of fruit.
Stem(s): The principal axis or wood structure of a plant from which buds, shoots, foliage, and
branches develop.
Tree:
With a FniRiFnUFn tFURk diameteF at bFeast height ef twe ORGhes and a Fni-ii.m... --all height ef
City of Miami File ID: 1399 (Revision: C) Printed On: 7/19/2018
.A
woody perennial plant, including Palms, usually having only one (1) dominant Trunk and a well-
defined Stem or Stems carrying a more or less definite Crown, usually having a mature height
greater than sixteen feet (16'). A Tree regulated under this Chapter must have a minimum size
of twelve feet (12') overall height with a DBH of two inches (2") or larger. A Palm regulated
under this Chapter must have a minimum height of sixteen feet (16') overall with a DBH of six
inches (6") or larger.
Tree abuse: Treece s";;" En^', ,deQ:
Action that damages a Tree and/or parts of a Tree. Generally, any Tree activity beyond or
against those described in the ANSI A-300 Standards. Examples of Tree Abuse include but are
not limited to Hatracking, Spiking, Lions Tailing, Tree Removal (without a permit), pruning more
than twenty-five percent (25%) of a Tree Canopy in one (1) annual growing season, Root
Pruning that destabilizes a Tree, Girdling, damaging and/or removing sections of Bark, and
damaging and/or removing sections of Cambium.
Tree Activity: Work that will affect a Tree on a property which includes Tree Removal, Tree
Pruning more than twenty-five percent (25%), and Root Pruning more than ten percent (10%) or
trimming of a Root more than one inch (1") in diameter.
Tree Boundary Survey: A survey such as a topographic survey that establishes property lines
and corners of a parcel of land and also locates natural features such as Trees and streams as
well as man-made features such as buildings, fences, improvements, land contours,
easements, and utilities. Tree Boundary Surveys shall be prepared by a professional land
surveyor.
Tree Permit: A permit which is required for any Tree Activity.
Tree Protection Barriers: Barriers, fences, or barricades that are placed around existing Trees to
provide protection during construction on a subject property. Examples are contained in the
Tree Protection Specifications and Tree Protection Details as described in the Landscape
Manual and ANSI A-300 Standards.
Tree Protection Bond: A monetary bond that guarantees specific Trees be protected and will not
be harmed by the construction project and, if harmed, the party will reimburse for the loss.
Tree Protection Zone ("TPZ"): An area defined by a Certified Arborist surrounding the Trunk of a
Tree to protect Roots and soil within at least the CRZ area. This area is necessary to protect
Tree health and stability. The TPZ is an area within which certain activities are prohibited or
restricted, especially during construction or development activity.
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Tree Pruning: Also known as Tree Trimming. The selective cutting of Tree parts done to
remove branches or parts of branches from a Tree's Crown.
Tree removal: The act of cutting down, destroying, moving, relocating, or effectively
destroying through damaging, any tree situated on any real property or public property within
the city.
Tree Value: The appraised monetary value for a Tree as calculated by an ISA Certified Arborist
who is specially trained and experienced as a Tree and Landscape Appraiser. Appraisals shall
utilize the Trunk Formula Method within the replacement cost approach of valuation as
described in the most recent edition of the Guide for Plant Appraisal published by the
International Society of Arboriculture. Tree Value may be used to determine reasonable
mitigation requirements for Specimen Trees removed without a permit and/or Specimen Trees
effectively destroyed during construction, including Trees permitted to be preserved or remain
on site that are subsequently effectively destroyed, and may be used as an alternative to the
replacement Tree table for mitigation requirements for Specimen Trees being permitted for
removal, as approved by the Department.
Trunk: The main or central stem of a Tree.
Viaor: The caaacity of a Tree to arow and resist stress: arowina in a healthv condition.
Sec. 17-3. Applicability.
LqLThe provisions of this article shall apply to all public or private property within the city,
unless expressly exempted by law.
(b) All Tree Activity as defined in this Chapter require a Tree Permit as described herein.
L(ILAny tree removal on a public right-of-way or on property owned by the city shall require
a permit from the public works department, unless it is deemed in writing by the e
w e*s doFeG4E)r E)r the diron4E)r r,f the depaFt me Rt Of Gede eRfGFGeFneRt Director of the
Department or his/her designee that such permit will be an undue burden for the city
and is not in the best interest of the public health, safety and welfare of the city.
LqLAII trees located within environmental preservation districts shall also be subject to the
requirements of article 2 of this chapter.
Palms with a DBH Of SOX iRGhes and a height eveF 16 feet shall alse be subjeGt te these
jj�Wl trees located within natural forest communities shall also be subject to the
requirements of article 3 of chapter 24 of the Miami -Dade County Code, as amended.
JfLAII mangrove trees and any tree located upon land which is wetlands as defined in €-
§ Section 373.019, Florida Statutes, as amended from time to time, shall also be
subject to the permitting requirements of article 2 of chapter 24 of the Miami -Dade
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County Code, as amended.
Sec. 17-4. Tree, rpermit ^r tree pr1 iRiRg perwit applications, requirements, review, and
fees.
(a) Permit, when required.
(1) No person, agent or representative thereof, directly or indirectly, shall remove G
re ^ate-arytFee situaengage in Tree Activity on any property described in section 17-3
of this Article without first obtaining a tree,PrnAwaT permit and unless exempted by section
17-11 of this Article.
(2)
per+ed. A Tree Permit is required for Tree Pruning of more than twenty-five percent (250/0)
Percent of the canopy, crown, or living foliage of a tree or other pruning not in accordance
with the ANSI A-300 Standards shall be allowed upon presentation of a letter to the city, to
be validated by a certified arborist, with justification as to why the ANSI A-300 Standards
are not applicable.
(3) Pruning of the canopy, crown or living foliage of a tree, in strict accordance with ANSI A-
300 Standards shall be allowed without a permit. A certified arborist letter or other
documentation may be required.
(4) Any removal of roots one inch min diameter or greater and/or the removal of more
than ten percent1( 0%) of a tree's root system shall require a tree pruning permit. No root
pruning shall be allowed beyond the aforementioned limits anywhere in the city without a
tree pruning permit except for the pruning of roots when essential for any repairs or
improvements performed by or for the department of public works or capital improvements.
(5) No building permit for any work that has the potential to affect trees, including new
construction, additions, carports, pools, decks, fences, driveways, parking lots, tennis
courts, demolition, or similar work, shall be issued by the building department unless the
zoning department has determined that a tree Femeval permit or tree pruning permit is not
required or that a valid tree Femeval permit or tree pruning permit has been issued in
accordance with this article.
(b) Application requirements. AppliGatiGRG shall be Fnado The property owner or authorized
agent shall submit a Tree Permit application to the Department on the Department's Tree
Permit agDlication form 11Fey0l' ed for that ig Foese and shall ORGll de a whitter stateme-Rt
and ,r„ appliGable foes shall ,,.,.,,.,,paRy appliGatiGRs: A Tree Permit application shall include
those supporting documents and plans as required by the Department to provide adequate
description and information to verify the intended Tree Activity, site conditions, proposed
construction and work specifications in order to issue a Tree Permit.
(c)\ / nppliGatiGRG fee tree Fe Fnyal /+
IN e Rj 1RGtieR With Y1eW /+P1RMF GtieR IN.+II Il'�INn
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additie;Gpeels,d de&G shall ;I,^II de the felle „rn: Plan requirements. Plans submitted
with a Tree Permit application shall comply with the following:
mmercial Droaerties. Plans for a Tree Permit in coniunction with new construction
including but not limited to, demolition, additions, pools and decks shall include the
following:
a. A tree Boundary survey, drawn to scale, identifying the tree species, location, and
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listing the height, spread and diameter of all existing trees. The tree Boundary
survey shall illustrate the location of all existing structures, the location of any
overhead and/or underground utilities and the right-of-way limits, edges of
pavement, including all trees within the right-of-way. This survey shall be prepared
by a professional land surveyor, licensed in the state.
b 4nnliGatienc fer a hi iilrline Permit er tree remeyal chill ind, de a A tree
disposition plan drawn to scale identifying and listing all existing trees and specifying
the condition of each tree, the TPZ radius and whether said trees are to remain, to
be removed and/or to be relocated. The tree disposition plan shall also contain the
value of specimen trees that are listed to remain and/or to be relocated. The
valuation of trees shall be appraised using the Council of Tree and Landscape
Appraisers Guide for Plant Appraisal, latest edition. The tree disposition plan shall
superimpose all proposed new construction, aA4 the new locations of existing trees
to be relocated on site over the tree survey plan information-, and an accurate
depiction of the CRZ and Canopy of the Trees to remain and/or be relocated. For
applications involving the construction of a new building(s), the tree disposition plan
shall be prepared by and bear the seal of a landscape architect currently licensed in
the state, or by persons authorized by F.S. Gh. Chapter 481, Florida Statutes, as
amended, to prepare landscape plans or drawings.
c. A Tree protection plan depicting all Trees to remain and/or be relocated on site with a
depiction of the Tree's TPZ.
d. When applicable, an assessment on all existing Trees with Tree specifications. For
Trees and/or Palms proposed for relocation, Tree relocation specifications in accordance
with ANSI A3O0 Standards shall be provided to the Department. Additional information
such as the TPZ, CRZ, Tree protection and/or Tree Pruning recommendations may be
required for Trees to remain and/or be relocated. The assessment shall be prepared by
an ISA Certified Arborist.
(2) Single family or duplex properties. AnnliGatienc fer tree rem Plans for a Tree Permit
in conjunction with cinnle_family er twe_family dWellinec (hemestead nrenerties) er aRY ether
,
s4a-4 new construction, including but not limited to demolition, additions, pools, and decks
shall include the following:
a. A site plan drawn to scale, or existing property survey prepared by the owner or the
owner's representative, identifying the location of the tree, the species and listing the
height, spread and diameter of all existing trees. Said site plan may be limited to the
immediate area of the proposed work.
b. AppliGatieRG feF a buildiRg permit, demelitieR peFFnit, or tFee Femeval shall iRGlUde a A
tree disposition plan drawn to scale, prepared by the owner or the owner's
representative, or such plan incorporated onto an existing property survey, listing all
existing trees and specifying the condition of each tree and whether said trees are to
remain, to be removed and/or to be relocated. This plan shall also illustrate the
location of all existing structures and/or all proposed new construction, the location
of any overhead and/or underground utilities and the new locations of existing trees
to be relocated on site.
c. When aaDlicable. an assessment on all existina Trees with Tree saecifications. For
Trees and/or Palms proposed for relocation, Tree relocation specifications in accordance
with ANSI A3O0 Standards shall be provided to the Department. Additional information
such as the TPZ, CRZ, Tree protection and/or Tree Pruning recommendations may be
reauired for Trees to remain and/or be relocated. The assessment shall be DreDared by
an ISA Certified Arborist
(3) Plans for a Tree Permit unrelated to construction shall be drawn to scale using a site
City of Miami File ID: 1399 (Revision: C) Printed On: 7/19/2018
plan or existing property survey prepared by the owner or owner's authorized
representative.
All applications shall have a tree replacement plan/landscape plan drawn to scale that
illustrates all proposed new construction, new locations of relocated trees, and new
replacement tree locations that complies with the requirements of section 17-6 of the City
Code, entitled "Tree replacement." For applications involving the construction of a new
building(s), the tree replacement plan shall be prepared by and bear the seal of a landscape
architect currently licensed in the state, or by persons authorized by F.S. Gh. Chapter 481,
Florida Statues, as amended, to prepare landscape plans or drawings. Tree replacement
plan/landscape plan submitted for a one -family or two-family dwellings (homestead property)
may be in the form of a site plan drawn to scale prepared by the owner or the owner's
representative.
(45) Anytime construction or development is to be undertaken, a tree protection bond equal
to the value of the specimen tree(s) to remain and/or to be relocated shall be posted,
except for properties which have Homestead Exemption, pursuant to Section 196.075,
Florida Statutes, and show proof thereof. The bond shall remain in effect for one year after
the final certificate of occupancy is issued.
(Ed) Review of application. Upon receipt of a completed Tree Permit application, the
department of Gede eRfeFGeFne t (heFeiR FefeFFed +„ as „depai:t, eRt") shall review said
application for compliance with the regulations as set forth in this article. Such review e#a4
may include a field inspection of the site and referral of the application to other departments or
agencies as necessary. `^'i+hir 15 GaleRdaF days of the FeGeipt of a ,.,,mpleted appliGati„r the
the peFFni+ Feques+ The Department shall take a reasonable amount of time to review and
respond to applicants regarding Tree Permit applications, generally completing the initial review
within fifteen (15) business days and thereafter providing the intended decision notice upon final
approval the Tree Permit application.
City of Miami File ID: 1399 (Revision: C) Printed On: 7/19/2018
(Ge) Notice. Within 24for -eight (48) hours of issuing the intended decision for a tree ramal
permit, the department shall notify the applicant and post a notice of the intended decision on
or adjacent to the subject property in a location where it is visible to the general public. The
posting shall provide a general description and location of the proposed treeko n4 site +e he
ronin"9r1 nr n+her an+inn r9n11irinn
the +roe remeyal permit Activity contained in the Tree
Permit. The intended decision shall also be sent to the home owners' associations registered
with the neighborhood enhancement team( NET„) in that area.
(ef) Issuance of permit. If no appeal; in accordance with section 17-8 of this Article, is +
#+led -received within ten (10) calendar days of the issuance of the intended decision, the tree
PF61R Rg permit nr tree remeyal permit if nrini4alh, apprryed by the departmentshall be
issued. The property owner shall 1„Rs6ireensure that the tree rLQmAwal permit is displayed until
the authorized work is completed.
(fg) Fees. Fees shall be as established pursuant to section 10-4 of the City Code, as
amended, "Building permit fee schedule." Applications from government agencies for tree
removals in areas dedicated to public use may, at the discretion of the city commission, be
exempted from application fees and permit fees by resolution.
(gh) Final inspection. No later than six months following the completion of the authorized
work, the applicant shall schedule a final inspection with the department for verification and
acceptance of the final authorized work.
Sec. 17-5. Criteria and conditions for tree r9me„al apd- roles+inn Permits.
(a) Criteria for tree, mal Permits. Ne permit Shell he icci ierl fpr tree remn„el 1141916 nne
of +h9 fG-IIG ,144 eri+eria 9.,093+1 In determining whether a Tree Permit should be issued, the
Department will consider the following criteria:
(1) Whether the tree is located in the buildable area or yard area where a structure or
improvement may be placed and the tree unreasonably restricts the permitted use of the
property. Trees located in the property frontage (within the fifteen 15Z -foot setback), are
not considered located within the buildable area or yard. Ingress and egress to garages are
not considered buildable or yard areas. Trees on a public right-of-way shall not be
considered for removal because they restrict ingress or egress to the garages or parking on
the site, except if there is no other reasonable access to and from the structure or to the
property from the public right-of-way. This res+rie+ie4 shall he waived by ei+her+he dire,ter
we*s whey it relates to the publin right 9f way.
(2) Whether the tree is diseased iRjuFed er in danger of falling; interferes with utility service
determined by a trained and experienced vegetation management or line clearance employee
and/or Person; creates unsafe vision clearance within a sight triangle or other legal Right -of -
Way; or i1 i4 daRger of materially impair+Rs the structural integrity of an existing structure.
3) Whether the Tree is deemed a Hiah-Risk Tree. fatallv diseased or dead. The Deaartment
may require supporting documentation confirming that the Tree is a High -Risk Tree, fatally
diseased or dead and cannot be abated by other means (i.e. pruning, trimming, fruit removal,
removal of hazardous limbs); photographs of the Tree(s) showing the conditions, signs or
svmatoms of the Tree: anv laboratory analvsis or relevant scientific literature: and anv other
otential supporting documentation
(4) Whether the Tree is a Prohibited Tree Species. The Department may require photographs of
the Tree(s) to support identification of the Tree Species. Prohibited Tree Species may be
removed without the need for a Replacement Tree.
City of Miami File ID: 1399 (Revision: C) Printed On: 7/19/2018
(35) Whether Tthe tree is�e�c�t+s tFee cno^ieG and- ,.,iii ho replaGor! ,�,i+h - n�+i„o tree
SpeGieG +n menet+ need {eros+r„ nraGtiGeS; creates a health hazard; interferes with native
tree species; or creates a negative impact on natural land features such as rock
outcroppings, sink holes or other geological, historical or archeological features.
(46) It the d
rease.p ether t#a.p setferth-above. Any other relevant criteria the Department deems
appropriate to consider in order to make a determination.
(b) Conditions for Issuance of a tree romn„a' ro'n^a+inn and ron'a^eMeRt Permit. Any or all
of the following conditions may be required by the Department prior to issuance of a Tree
Permit:
(1) The applicant may be required to redesign the project to preserve specimen tree(s) or
any other tree determined by the department to be of substantial value because of its
species, size, age, form and/or historical significance, and to provide an alternate plan that
includes the adequate preservation of said tree(s) and design alterations within the scope
and intent of the initially proposed plan.
(2) Where practical, specimen trees or any other tree determined by the department to be
of substantial value because of its species, size, age, form and/or historical significance,
proposed for removal, shall be relocated on or off-site within the Commission District of the
subject property. The applicant shall adhere to acceptable tree relocation standards and
specifications. The department may require a certified arborist to monitor the root pruning
and tree relocation preparation efforts on site and to provide documentation certifying that
the work was accomplished according to acceptable tree rolnna+inn standards and
specifications.
(3) If it is impractical to relocate said tree(s) either on or off-site, because of age, type or
size, the applicant shall be required to replace all trees permitted to be removed in
accordance with the tree replacement requirements in section 17-6.
(4) The department may require that the applicant provide a written report from a certified
arborist before making any determinations in conjunction with this Go�rArticle. The
department may also require monitoring by a certified arborist during construction and/or
Tree Activity requiring a Tree Permit to assure tree preservation.
Sec. 17-6. Tree replacement.
(a) Tree replacement chart. The tree replacement chart 17.6.1.1 below, shall be used to
determine the total number and size of trees that shall be planted as replacement
trees for all trees permitted to be removed. The replacement trees are based on the
diameter in inches (DBH) of the trees to be removed. To determine the required
replacement trees, calculate the total sum in inches of the diameters of all trees to be
removed. This sum will result in one single number in inches that represents the
combined total of the diameters of all trees to be removed. Diameter measurement
shall be rounded up to the nearest inch.
Chart 17.6.1.1
Tree Replacement Chart
Total diameter of
Total number of
OR
Total number of
Contribution
tree(s) to be
replacement trees required
replacement trees required
to Tree Trust
removed (sum of
(where each Replacement
(where each Replacement
Fund
Tree is a minimum of 2”
Tree is a minimum of
inches at DBH)
City of Miami File ID: 1399 (Revision: C) Printed On: 7/19/2018
(1) If the sum of the diameter of trees to be removed exceeds a total of sixty inches (60"),
the additional inches shall be added cumulatively from the top of the chart, down to
the bottom of the chart, to calculate the number of trees required as replacement
trees.
(2) Up to thirty percent (30%) PeFGeRt of the two-inch (2") DBH replacement tree
requirement may be met by native species with a minimum height of e+g#t ten feet
and a minimum DBH of one and one-half inches1( %2") at time of planting.
(3) The removal of a Palm shall be replaced with two (2) Palms at sixteen feet (16') overall
heiaht with a six-inch (6") DBH or one (1) Tree at twelve feet (12') overall heiaht with a
two-inch (2") DBH. Native palms of a fourteen foot (14)_ -feet minimum overall height
and minimum DBH of three inches (3") at time of planting shall count as a required two
inch (2") DBH replacement tree on the basis of two (2) palms per required tree. No
more than thirty percent (30%) PeFGeRt of the required replacement trees shall be
palms.
(b)Tree species. Tree(s) installed as replacement trees shall be of a native or non-native
invasive species and shall be planted at grade or ground level according to �&A ANSI A300
best management practices manual, incorporated herein by reference. When more than ten
trees are installed as replacement trees, a diversity of species shall be required as per chart
17.6.2.1 tree species diversity chart, below.
Chart 17.6.2.1
Tree Species Divers
Required number of trees Required minimum number of species
11-20 2
21-50 4
51 or greater 6
(b) PFehihi+�peEies Tree Replacement Alternatives. ReplaGeFner+ +Foos aFe r„+
and CiG is be Rghale RGOG (BaR aR TFee) Ne foes will be assessor! feF Femeval of
pFehibted tree spe.ies.
1. Replacement Trees for Homestead Properties may comply with the following alternatives:
a. The removal of a non-specimen/non-native Tree, a Controlled Tree Species or a Palm
species shall be replaced with a native species at a one-to-one ratio upon written
City of Miami File ID: 1399 (Revision: C) Printed On: 7/19/2018
DBHminim .m oidh: x 6'
spread in Canopy x 12' in
height)
4"minimum ems;;
spread in Canopy
height)
DBH x 8'
x 16' in
2"-3"
1
or
0
$1,000.00
4"-6"
2
or
1
$2,000.00
7"-12"
4
or
2
$4,000.00
13"-18"
6
or
3
$6,000.00
19"-24"
8
or
4
$8,000.00
25"-30"
10
or
5
$10,000.00
31"-36"
12
or
6
$12,000.00
37"-42"
14
or
7
$14,000.00
43"-48"
16
or
8
$16,000.00
49"-60"
20
or
10
$20,000.00
(1) If the sum of the diameter of trees to be removed exceeds a total of sixty inches (60"),
the additional inches shall be added cumulatively from the top of the chart, down to
the bottom of the chart, to calculate the number of trees required as replacement
trees.
(2) Up to thirty percent (30%) PeFGeRt of the two-inch (2") DBH replacement tree
requirement may be met by native species with a minimum height of e+g#t ten feet
and a minimum DBH of one and one-half inches1( %2") at time of planting.
(3) The removal of a Palm shall be replaced with two (2) Palms at sixteen feet (16') overall
heiaht with a six-inch (6") DBH or one (1) Tree at twelve feet (12') overall heiaht with a
two-inch (2") DBH. Native palms of a fourteen foot (14)_ -feet minimum overall height
and minimum DBH of three inches (3") at time of planting shall count as a required two
inch (2") DBH replacement tree on the basis of two (2) palms per required tree. No
more than thirty percent (30%) PeFGeRt of the required replacement trees shall be
palms.
(b)Tree species. Tree(s) installed as replacement trees shall be of a native or non-native
invasive species and shall be planted at grade or ground level according to �&A ANSI A300
best management practices manual, incorporated herein by reference. When more than ten
trees are installed as replacement trees, a diversity of species shall be required as per chart
17.6.2.1 tree species diversity chart, below.
Chart 17.6.2.1
Tree Species Divers
Required number of trees Required minimum number of species
11-20 2
21-50 4
51 or greater 6
(b) PFehihi+�peEies Tree Replacement Alternatives. ReplaGeFner+ +Foos aFe r„+
and CiG is be Rghale RGOG (BaR aR TFee) Ne foes will be assessor! feF Femeval of
pFehibted tree spe.ies.
1. Replacement Trees for Homestead Properties may comply with the following alternatives:
a. The removal of a non-specimen/non-native Tree, a Controlled Tree Species or a Palm
species shall be replaced with a native species at a one-to-one ratio upon written
City of Miami File ID: 1399 (Revision: C) Printed On: 7/19/2018
confirmation from the Department. Replacement shall be of minimum replacement size
at two inches (21 DBH and twelve feet (12') overall height.
b. Trees authorized for removal from lots that meet the minimum lot Tree requirements,
as described in Article 9 of the Miami 21 Code, shall be replaced at a one-to-one ratio,
excluding Specimen Trees and Trees effectively destroyed as a result of Tree Abuse.
c. Homestead Properties that remove Trees without a proper Tree Permit must comply
with the standard Replacement Tree quantities and requirements and may not avail
themselves of these alternatives.
2. Prohibited Tree Species may be removed after obtaining a Tree Permit. Replacement Trees
are not required for the removal of any Prohibited Tree Species as listed in current edition of the
Miami -Dade County Prohibited Species List, except Lofty Fig (Ficus altissima) and Banyan Tree
(Ficus benghalensis) which are subject to the provisions of this Article. No fees will be assessed
for Tree Removal of Prohibited Tree Species.
3. The City Manager or designee, after a recommendation of the Department, may adjust the
requirement of Replacement Trees for affordable housing developments that are procured by
the Citv and/or funded by the Citv. reaardless of the source of funds.
(d) Tree quality. After issuance of a Tree Permit, TFoos ;n� � replacement trees in
accordance with this section shall conform to, or exceed, the minimum standards for Florida
Number One as provided in the most current edition of "Florida Grades and Standards for
Nursery Plants, Part I and II," prepared by the state department of agriculture and
consumer services, and incorporated herein by reference. Trees shall be planted according
to sound nursery practices as illustrated in the landscape manual.
(e) Off-site replacement trees. If the total number of +Foos required as replacement trees
cannot be reasonably planted on the subject property, the applicant may enter into a+4
written agreement with the city, as approved by the department, to plant the excess
replacement trees on public property within the city commission district of the subject
property. If the Department confirms and verifies that Replacement Trees cannot be planted
within the City Commission District of the subject property due to capacity issues, the
Department may approve the planting of the excess Replacement Trees in other parts of
the City. An alternative to off-site replacement is provided in subsection (f), relating to the
contribution to the tree trust fund. Applicants may do both to the extent that they should
proffer to do so.
(f) Tree trust fund. if the total n mbeF of +Foos Feq iFed as FeplaGemeR+ +Foos naNNr�+
beth to the exteF,+ that they she ld pF„ffeF +„ d„ se. If the Department determines that an
applicant is not able to comply with the planting of Replacement Trees either onsite or off-
site as required by this Section, then the applicant shall make a financial contribution into
the Citv's Tree trust fund prior to issuance of the Tree Permit as follows:
1. Non -Homestead Properties. The contribution shall be equal to one thousand
dollars ($1,000.00) for each two-inch (21 DBH Tree required in accordance with
Chart 17.6.1.1.
2. Homestead Properties. The contribution shall be equal to five hundred dollars
City of Miami File ID: 1399 (Revision: C) Printed On: 7/19/2018
($500.00) for each two-inch (21 DBH Tree required in accordance with Chart
17.6.1.1 per calendar year. If additional Tree Permits are issued in the same
calendar year, the subsequent contribution shall be equal to one thousand
($1,000.00) for each two-inch (21 DBH Tree required in accordance with Chart
17.6.1.1.
(g) Completion. The r -Replacement tTree process shall be completed prior to the issuance
of a certificate of occupancy or temporary certificate of occupancy. Moreover, the approval
of a tree relnnA+inn er tTree, mal p ermit is contingent on any requirements set forth in
subsections (a) through (f) above.
(h) Maintenance of relocated and Replacement Trees. Trees that are relocated or replaced
must be maintained in a healthy growing condition and guaranteed for a period of at least one
(1) year unless otherwise authorized by the Department in writing.
Sec. 17-7. - Tree protection.
(a) Tree protection during construction. Trees shall be protected during construction
activity as determined by the 1961ildiRg department through the use of protective
barriers in accordance with the landscape manual. Trees that are to remain shall be
clearly identified with tags. A r,rnte`+ted ,row ,kith of ton foot Shall he
aFeaT?aGGpptable fer ea4htee nr ;n tree Prntontinn mothnrl is
aeed- Tree Protection Barriers shall be maintained around the Trees in
accordance with the Tree protection plan approved by the Department.
Prior to and 9during demolition, ;Ad/er development, or construction, including installation of
irrigation systems or any other underground installations, protective barriers shall be placed
around the perimeter of each Tree's TPZ ear -hi tree and shall remain in place in order to
prevent the destruction or damaging of roots, stems or crowns of such trees. The barriers
shall remain in place and intact until approved landscape operations begin; however, barriers
may be removed temporarily to accommodate construction needs, provided that the manner
and purpose for such temporary removal will not harm the trees. The trees shall be properly
irrigated throughout the building process. Trees damaged during construction shall be subject
to the provisions of section 17-9.
(b)Re�d-Other Tree requirements. Property owners shall protect the Trees designated for
preservation in the approved Tree Permit from chemical poisoning, excavation, grade changes,
and any other potential Tree Abuse to at least the following minimum standards:
1. Utility line trenches. Utility line trenches and/or directional borings shall be routed
awav from the Trees to an area outside the TPZ to the maximum extent Dossible.
2. Parking on site during construction or development activities. No parking, vehicle
maintenance, storage of construction materials or debris, or cleaning of equipment shall
take place within areas marked for preservation specifically including, but not limited to,
within the TPZ of anv individual Trees or cluster of Trees.
Sec. 17-8. - Appeals, appellate fees.
(a) Appeals to the historic and environmental preservation board ("HEPB"). The property
owner, the applicant, or any aggrieved party having standing under state law, may appeal
to the HEPB any decision of the department on matters relating to applications for tree
Femeval permits, except for tree Femoval permits granted to the departments of public
City of Miami File ID: 1399 (Revision: C) Printed On: 7/19/2018
works or capital improvements program, by filing a written notice of appeal to the
preservation officer, as established in seet+en6-2-1 Chapter 23 of the City Code, within
ten calendar days after the date of the intended decision. The notice of appeal shall
include the decision appealed from and the reasons or grounds for the appeal. HEPB shall
hear and consider all facts material to the appeal. HEPB may affirm, modify or reverse the
decision of the department.
All appeals to the HEPB in accordance with this Article shall be accompanied by a fee
of $315.00-,. HE)WeVeF nn foot chill be assessordl except for appeals initiated by ;;A ewper e#
PFGPeFt., A'hiGh 7h It;
the sa e^v+i-'pFGperty fete abutting property owners, as defined in the
Miami 21 Code, for which a tree, LQmAwaT permit is sought., iRG1 diRg r,r^I,or+ieS �,,, +o,+ ;aGr„S&
a streetA-r a'�;, m the 661 est PFE)Pefty—, gAppeals by a nonprofit corporation dedicated to
conservation and protection of the natural and physical environment, or appeals by a
homeowners association; as defined byF.S.Gh. Chapter 720, Florida Statutes, as amended,
which has one member who owns property within five hundred feet (5OOD_feef-of the
subject property shall pay a reduced appeal fee of $157.50.
(b) Appeals to the city commission. The property owner, the applicant, the department, or any
aggrieved party having standing under state law, may appeal to the city commission any
decision of the hic+nri`+ 7nr♦ eRVirnnrneRtal preservation hn.arr! HEPB on matters relating to
applications for tree, mal permits by filing a written notice of appeal with the department of
hearing boards within fifteen 151 calendar days after the date of the decision. The property
owner, the applicant, or any aggrieved party having standing under state law may appeal to
the city commission any decision by the Department on matters relating to Tree Permit
applications for +roo ro.,.ev, ;;1 permit Aran+or! +n the departments of public works or capital
improvements Program or to their contractors, by filing a written notice of appeal with the
department of hearing boards, within fifteen 151 calendar -days after the date of iccic the
permit intended decision. The notice of appeal shall include the decision appealed from and
the reasons or grounds for the appeal. The city commission shall conduct a hearing de novo
as a body of original jurisdiction, upon any appeal and/or review from an appealable decision
under the terms of this ordinance, as amended. New evidence or materials may be received
by the city commission where such evidence or materials are pertinent to a determination of
the appeal. The city commission may hear the testimony of witnesses and/or any other
evidence offered by any person aggrieved or by any officer, board or agency of the city
affected thereby or by any interested party having an interest in the appeal under state law
and may, in conformity with this article and other applicable laws, rules and regulations,
render its decision. The city commission shall hear and consider all facts material to the
appeal and may affirm, modify or reverse, in whole or in part, with or without conditions,
HEPB's decision, or may grant or deny the appeal of the tree rrpermit issued to the
departments of public works and capital improvements.
All appeals to the city commission in accordance with this section shall be accompanied by a
fee of $500.00525.00, plus $34.50 per mailed notice to the adjacent owners within a five
hundred 500)_ -foot radius. A certified list of said adjacent owners shall be provided with all
appeals. However, no fees shall be assessed for appeals initiated by
whiGh abuts the subjeGt p,peny abutting property owners, as defined by the Miami 21 Code,
for which a tree Femeval permit is sought_, ir^161doRg pFepor+ies leGate l anrE)cc a c+roo+ Gr alloy
{rthe cccprrveAppeals by a nonprofit corporation dedicated to conservation and
protection of the natural and physical environment, or appeals by a homeowners association,
as that term is defined by F.S. Gh. Chapter 720, Florida Statutes, as amended, which has one
member who owns property within five hundred feet (5OO)_feet-of the subject property
shall pay a reduced appeal fee of $262.50.
The decision of the city commission shall constitute final administrative review, and no petition
City of Miami File ID: 1399 (Revision: C) Printed On: 7/19/2018
for rehearing or reconsideration, shall be considered by the city. Appeals from decisions of the
city commission may be made to the courts as provided by the Florida Rules of Appellate
Procedure.
(c) Notice. All public hearings on appeals shall be noticed as follows. Notice of the time and
place of the public hearing shall be mailed at least ten (10) calendar days in advance of the
hearing to the owner of the subject property and the owners of the adjacent properties. At
least ten (10) calendar days in advance of the hearing, a sign, in compliance with the
provisions of ;Section 62 129(2)a 62-19 of the City Code, shall be posted on the subject
property.
(d) No tree removal permitted during an appeal. Upon timely submission of an appeal made
pursuant to the requirements of this section, new construction and removal of any trees
which could be affected by the subject appeal is prohibited, pending final disposition of the
appeal. A violation of this subsection will automatically result in an additional five hundred
dollars $500.001 fine payable to the city's tree trust fund for each separate violation of this
section.
Sec. 17-9. - Enforcement.
(a) Jurisdiction. Tie den Code Compliance shall have jurisdiction for the proper and
effective enforcement of this article, under chapter 2, article X entitled code enforcement. Tie
den ;i Code Compliance shall have the right to inspect subject properties in accordance
with the approved tree, mal permit and the provisions of this article. The Department shall
work with Code Compliance to ensure effective enforcement of this Article. Upon notification
by Code Compliance and/or the Department, the Building Official may immediately issue a stop
work order for any work that contributes to the violation of this Article. A stop work order shall
remain in effect until the violation has been corrected, including payment of all fines.
(b) Individual enforcement. Each tree removed, relocated or illegally pruned without a tree
r, LQrnAw;;rpermit shall constitute a separate and distinct violation and shall be the subject of
individual enforcement.
Sec. 17-10. - Penalties, remedies cumulative.
(a) Fine. ^r„ perceR er ageRt thereeF w he remeyes a tree w ithe it a tree remeyal peFFnit
,
4-T4.Any property that violates this Article shall be subject to the following penalties:
1. Non -Homestead Properties. For every Tree that has been the subject of Tree
Activity without a Tree Permit or the subject of Tree Abuse, a fine of one
thousand dollars ($1,000.00) per Tree shall be imposed.
2. Homestead Properties. For every Tree that has been the subject of Tree Activity
without a Tree Permit or the subject of Tree Abuse, a fine of five hundred dollars
($500.00) per Tree shall be imposed.
3. Said fines are appealable to the Code Enforcement Board pursuant to Chapter
2, Article X of the City Code.
City of Miami File ID: 1399 (Revision: C) Printed On: 7/19/2018
4. Any property that has had a previous fine for a violation of this Article within the
past five (5) years may receive a fine as stated in this Section and shall also be
automatically referred to the Code Enforcement Board pursuant to Chapter 2,
Article X of the City Code and subject to enhanced penalties of five thousand
dollars ($5,000.00) per day per violation pursuant to Section 162.09, Florida
Statutes.
5. Nothing in this Article shall prohibit the City from enforcing this Article by any
other means. The enforcement procedures outlined herein are cumulative to all
others and shall not be deemed to be prerequisites to filing suit for the
enforcement of any Section of this Article.
(b) Tree replacement required. The planting of replacement trees shall be required, in
addition to the monetary fines assessed pursuant to this article. The number of trees
required as replacement for each tree that was removed without a permit is provided in
chart 17.10.2.1, the tree replacement chart, for trees removed without a permit, below. If the
total number of trees required as replacement trees cannot be reasonably planted on the
subject property, the applicant may contribute to the city's tree trust fund in the amount
provided in chart 17.10.2.1.
Chart 17.10.2.1.
Tree Replacement Chart for Trees Removed Without a Permit
Diameter
N 1mber of re p1aGeR1eRt
OR
nl amber of repla^omon4
OR
Contribution into
(DBH of
trees required (2" BB4
trees Fequired (^" DBH
Tree Trust Fund
each tree
ronorn-Urnr ear -h- 12'
minorn-Urn 16'
removed
m.iAimi im hemr #Total
minimi im hemght) Total
without a
number of Replacement
number of Replacement
permit
Trees required (where
Trees required (where
each Replacement Tree is
each Replacement Tree is
a minimum of 2" DBH x 6'
a minimum of 4" DBH x 8'
spread in Canopy x 12' in
spread in Canopy x 16' in
hei ht
hei ht
2"-3"
2
or
1
or
$42,000.00
4"-6"
4
or
2
or
$24,000.00
7"-12"
8
or
4
or
$48,000.00
13"-18"
12
or
6
or
$612,000.00
19"-24"
16
or
8
or
$616,000.00
25"-30"
20
or
110
or
$4820,000.00
3111-3611
24
or
12
or
$4224,000.00
37"-42"
28
or
14
or
$4428,000.00
43"-48"
132
or
16
or
$4632,000.00
49"-60"
140
or
20
or
$2840,000.00
If the sum of the diameter of trees to be removed exceeds a total of sixty 69 inches (60„), the
additional inches shall be added cumulatively from the top of the chart, down to the bottom of
the chart, to calculate the number of trees required as replacement trees. If the exact DBH
cannot be determined for Trees removed without a aermit. established industry aractices shall
be used to determine an estimated DBH. as aaoroved by the Department.
(c) High -Risk Trees. Trees that are High -Risk Trees, as a result of Tree Abuse, are subject to
the Replacement Tree requirements of Section 17-10(b) of the City Code. High -Risk Trees that
result from any other reason are not subject to Replacement Trees.
City of Miami File ID: 1399 (Revision: C) Printed On: 7/19/2018
(Gd) Tree viability after project completion. If the department determines that any tree is not
viable, alive and growing one year after all associated `•7eyeleprner# tree activity on the
property is completed, the department shall require that said tree be replaced with the same
tree species and size which was originally planted or relocated, as per the approved tree
, g'rnA'4a1 permit.
(Ge) Withholding of a new building permit. The reme„aI of aAny tree Activity in violation of
this article shall constitute grounds for withholding new building permits directly related to
said tree, pmc)�4aT Activity until the violation has been corrected, including payment of all
fines and planting of all required replacement trees as pursuant to this section.
Alternatively, in order to obtain the new building permit, the person in violation may post a
payment and performance bond pursuant to F.S. §Section 255.05, Florida Statutes, as
amended, naming the city as obligee. The bond shall be in the amount of ten percent1( 0%)
of the construction cost or ten percent1( 0%) of the appraised value of the property, if no
construction exists. The bond will remain in place until the violation has been corrected,
pursuant to this section. In the event a bond is not feasible, the city may accept an
irrevocable, unconditional letter of credit, in the previously stated percentages, naming the
city as payee.
(ef) Withholding of a certificate of occupancy. The department shall not approve the zoning
inspection required for a temporary or final certificate of occupancy until all Tree Permits
have been finalized and violations of this article have been corrected, including the payment
of all fines and the planting of all replacement trees required as mitigation, pursuant to this
section.
(fg) Remedies cumulative. The remedies provided in this section shall be cumulative to all
remedies provided by law and/or equity, and the election of one shall not preclude the
other.
(gh) Costs and fees. In the event the city institutes any civil action to enforce the provisions
of this article in a court of competent jurisdiction, if the city succeeds as prevailing party, it
shall be entitled to recover the fines assessed pursuant to the violation(s), the cost of
replacement trees required as mitigation, the costs associated with the investigation and
prosecution including reasonable attorney fees, and any equitable and/or legal remedies
assigned by the court.
Sec. 17-11. - Exemptions.
The following are exempt from the provisions of this article:
(1) Any tree growing in a botanical garden, or a licensed plant or tree nursery business.
(2) When the city manager or designee determines, in writing, that tree Femeval permitting
requirements will impede private or public work to restore city order after a declared state of
emergency by the city commission.
(3) The immediate removal of any tree d FiRg er fefleWiRg ar emereeRn„ er ars ant of Rata ire
eFa that presents a life safety issue, by demonstrating to the city, following the review and
recommendation of the department, which may require photographic proof revised and/or
other supporting documentation, to help determine the condition of the tree prior to its
removal whiGh:.
aeafes a life safety icci
h PreyeRtc a eerceR from the use er eRjeymeRt of the ereeerty
,
G. PFeveRtS fuFtheF damage.
City of Miami File ID: 1399 (Revision: C) Printed On: 7/19/2018
(4) Nothing in this article shall be construed to prevent the pruning or trimming of trees
where necessary for proper landscape maintenance and safety, provided that the pruning
or trimming of trees is done in accordance with ANSI A-300 Tree Care Standards and the
guidelines illustrated in the landscape manual.
Secs. 17-12-17-25. Reserved.
*„
Section 3. If any section, part of a section, paragraph, clause, phrase, or word of this
Ordinance is declared invalid, the remaining provisions of this Ordinance shall not be affected.
Section 4. This Ordinance shall become effective immediately upon its adoption and
signature of the Mayor.2
APPROVED AS TO FORM AND CORRECTNESS:
1 1
i ria i 'ndez, City Attor iey 1/3/2017 i ria i "ndez, City Attor iey 6/2/2017
Revision C has the amendment made by law department and per legal opinion, it may be certified
instead of revision B.
Z This Ordinance shall become effective as specified herein unless vetoed by the Mayor within ten (10)
days from the date it was passed and adopted. If the Mayor vetoes this Ordinance, it shall become
effective immediately upon override of the veto by the City Commission or upon the effective date stated
herein, whichever is later.
City of Miami File ID: 1399 (Revision: C) Printed On: 711912018