SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Title
Provide direction regarding the City’s Tree Preservation Ordinance. (WSO)
Body
SUMMARY:
In January 2026, Pinellas County adopted amendments to its tree regulations to create a stand-alone tree code, revise tree replacement requirements, simplify the tree rating system, update residential tree requirements, clarify code language, and establish Tree Bank Fund payment amounts. The County described these changes as intended to provide greater flexibility and more consistent administration of its tree permitting process. A comparison of City and County tree code provisions has been provided for Council’s review.
During Council discussion, it was suggested that the City consider the County’s approach, including whether portions of the County code could be incorporated into the City’s ordinance. In response, staff is providing a summary of the County’s January 2026 code amendments and a comparison of key City and County provisions to assist Council in its discussion of predictability, streamlining, and alignment of tree preservation regulations.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT: N/A
USE OF RESERVE FUNDS: N/A
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
This item is consistent with the Council’s Environmental Stewardship priority and Objective 4.3 by evaluating tree preservation regulations that help protect Clearwater’s urban forest and public green spaces while promoting clarity and effective administration.
