Tree service professionals discuss the legal way to trim mangroves that obscure the ocean view.
Are Homeowners Allowed to Trim Mangroves?
Mangroves are a common feature on the Florida coast, and they are essential part of the fragile beach ecosystem. Their complex and heavily entwined root systems protect the shore from erosion and provide habitat for many birds and other animals.
Unfortunately, they can also grow in a way that is inconvenient for property owners. Since they are essential and a protected species, can homeowners do anything to regain their ocean view? The answer is yes, but only within certain boundaries and under certain conditions.
When Can Homeowners Legally Trim Mangroves?
The window for DIY mangrove trimming is fairly small. If the trees are too short they cannot be trimmed at all and if they are above a certain height trimming requires licensed professionals.
Here is a breakdown of the regulations for mangrove trimming:
- Height Under 6 Feet: No trimming allowed under any circumstances.
- Height Between 6 and 10 Feet: Property owners can trim for themselves.
- Height Over 10 Feet: Trees of this size must be trimmed by a professional and if the height is greater than 16 feet, trimming must be done in stages over years, not weeks or months.
There are also regulations about the percentage of mangroves that can be trimmed depending on the length of property holdings as well as trimming being allowed on mangroves that have previously been trimmed in a legal manner.
Obviously, if a homeowner has specific questions about these regulations they should search beyond this quick blog and consult with someone who has a clear grasp of the laws and regulations in this area. There may even be more specific rules in each coastal town regarding the trimming and removal or modification of mangroves.
Consequences of Skirting the Law
If a homeowner attempts to trim a mangrove on their own without making sure they are within the law and making sure they are doing it properly, there are several undesirable consequences that may result.
These consequences are explored below:
- The delicate mangrove may die if improperly trimmed.
- There is a $100 fine for each illegally trimmed mangrove.
- If a mangrove is somehow altered, the fine can be up to $250.
This does not even take into account the environmental impact that comes from damaged or dying trees. It is always best to leave these delicate and complicated trees to the professionals.
Call on the Tree Care Pros
Because mangroves are so important to the Florida ecosystem and environment, it is best to discuss any tree trimming with a certified arborist. They can make sure that homeowners are within the law to trim the trees as well as doing any tree risk assessment regarding the tree health. They can help homeowners manage their trees without damaging the landscape or the environment.
If you have other concerns regarding tree health care or plant health care, that is exactly the sort of thing arborists are trained to deal with. They can help prevent and treat any tree disease that crops up through tree pruning and other treatment methods.
About Any Town Tree
Available for both commercial and residential services in Naples, FL and beyond, Any Town Tree will go wherever they grow! They offer quality work at a reasonable price and have the most up-to-date equipment. Call today for a free quote.