Tree Protection

A link to the tree ordinance is below:
Safety Harbor Tree Ordinance

Tree Permit

The removal of protected trees requires a tree removal permit. A link to the permit is below:

Protected Tree or Grand Tree Removal Permit
Grand Tree Qualifying Form

Tree Pruning

Tree pruning is required to be performed to American National Standards called ANSI 300 Part 1: Tree, Shrub, and other Woody Plant Maintenance Standard Practices. Improper tree pruning can lead to damage where rot and decay can enter the tree. A link to a brochure is below: Tree Pruning Brochure

Tree Planting

Below is a link to information regarding tree planting.
Tree Planting Details
Planting and Establishing Trees

Free Tree Event

A Springtime Tree Give-a-Way will be held at Safety Harbor City Park near the Alligator Lake Boat Ramp on Saturday April 18^th from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. 

Species that will available are: Red Cedar, Bald Cypress, American Elm, Tupelo, Hickory, Sweetbay Magnolia, Red Maple, Live and Laurel Oaks, Sweetgum, and American Sycamore. Larger options of each species will also be available while supplies last. 

The City Arborist along with both Public Works and Community Development Staff will be on site to help answer any questions you may have. Planting and Watering Guides will be handed out with each tree to help Safety Harbor Residents with proper tree care and placement. 

Street Tree Planting Program

The City of Safety Harbor is continuing the Annual Street Tree Program. City residents can sign up to have a free shade tree planted in their front yards. All requests will be reviewed to ensure the selected tree is appropriate for the requested location and will not conflict with utilities.

The trees will be planted by the city however applicants are responsible for watering the trees during the establishment period. A tree watering schedule will be provided to each applicant. 

The deadline to apply is February 1, 2027. Applications and waivers can be downloaded here:
 
Street Tree Planting Application
Tree Planting Waiver

A signed waiver form is required at time of application to allow staff and a planting contractor to determine a proper location and plant the trees. Available trees include Red Maple, Pignut Hickory, Pecan, Sugarberry, Common Persimmon, Eagleston Holly, American Holly, Cedar, Southern Magnolia, Sweetbay Magnolia, Blackgum, Slash Pine, Longleaf Pine, Loblolly Pine, Sycamore, Live Oak, Bald Cypress, Winged Elm, American Elm, Lacebark Elm and Gumbo Limbo. Trees are available in 15 and 30 gallon containers. Please select two tree choices since one may not be available. Residents who apply for the program are responsible for watering the trees.  All requests will be reviewed to confirm the tree can thrive in the requested location.  

Below is a link to the City’s tree related frequently asked questions.
Tree FAQs
        
The City Commission adopted a Grand Tree Ordinance on December 20, 2021. Below is a link to the City's tree related frequently asked questions about the Grand Tree Ordinance.       
Grand Tree Ordinance FAQ

Tree Consultation
If you would like the City Arborist to provide information regarding a tree on your property such as a species determination, health assessment, or pruning recommendations, please contact:

James Ryan, City Arborist