Around Clermont, a project can involve a city, Lake County and several state agencies.
Cities
Clermont, Minneola, Groveland and Montverde each issue their own permits. Their tree and grading requirements weren't published anywhere we could cite, so start by asking the city or town.
Unincorporated Lake County
The county's tree removal exemption form (revised 2019) lists exemptions from its tree removal permit, including single-family lots of 2 acres or less with a house (up to 30 inches of combined caliper in three years), dangerous residential trees under F.S. 163.045, and agricultural land. Confirm current rules with the Office of Planning & Zoning.
State of Florida
| Topic | Rule | Who |
|---|---|---|
| Stormwater | Construction Generic Permit at 1 acre or more | Florida DEP |
| Septic | Permit with site evaluation, site plan and floor plan | County health department or DEP |
| Burning | Authorization for land clearing and pile burns | Florida Forest Service |
| Pools | At least one safety feature for final inspection | F.S. 515.27 |
| Utilities | Notice 2 full business days ahead | Sunshine 811 (F.S. 556.105) |
| Licensing | Underground utility and excavation contractor | F.S. 489.105 |
Not legal advice. Summarized from public documents as of the date below. Clermont or your town, Lake County and the state decide what's required.
Sources
- Lake County Office of Planning & Zoning: Tree Removal Permit Exemption form (revised 2019/12)
- Florida Department of Environmental Protection: Construction Activity (stormwater Construction Generic Permit)
- Florida Department of Environmental Protection: Onsite Sewage FAQ, Permitting
- Florida Forest Service: Forest Fire Laws & Open Burning Regulations (DACS-P 00149, revised 5/2015)
- Florida Statutes 515.27 (2025): Residential swimming pool safety feature options
- Florida Statutes 556.105 (2025): Procedures (notice to Sunshine 811)
- Florida Statutes 489.105 (2025): Definitions (contractor categories)
Reviewed October 20, 2026. Rules, prices and contacts change, so check the source before relying on it.
Questions and answers
Does Lake County's tree exemption apply inside Clermont?
The form is Lake County's and covers its own permit. Inside Clermont, ask the city.
Get it quoted
Call, or fill out the form, and a contractor who digs in south Lake County will contact you. Quotes are free.
Got voicemail? Leave your name, number, the property address and what you need dug.