Single-Family Vegetation Removal Permit Process
Coastal Islands:
Single-family and duplex lot owners must apply for a vegetation removal permit on the
following coastal islands:
- Big Hickory
- Black Island
- Buck Key
- Captiva
- Cayo Costa
- Fort Myers Beach
- Gasparilla
- Greater Pine Island*
- Little Hickory Islands (Bonita Beach)
- Lover's Key Group of Islands
- North Captiva
* For Greater Pine Island only, a vegetation removal permit will be required only
on parcels or lots zoned or used for residential purposes that are two acres in
size or greater.
Single Family - Land Development Code Section 14-377(c)(1) & (2):
There are two types of vegetation removal permit requirements for single-family and duplex
lots on coastal islands. The first requires review and approval as part of the
issuance of a building permit. The second is for clearing of a lot prior to any
building permit review.
Please note:
- Removal of coconut palms and native trees requires a permit.
- No permit is required for the annual removal of five trees or less from any single family lot that already has an existing single-family dwelling unit.
- Barricades that protect preserved vegetation are required.
Site Inspections:
Staff must conduct a site inspection to verify the submitted site plan and to inspect
barricades, if applicable. Staff must also review the site for protected plant
and animal species.
The applicant must provide staff with transportation if the lot is
on an unbridged island.
Helpful links: