Lake County requires a tree removal permit unless an exemption applies. Here's how the county's exemption form describes the exemptions.
Exemption A, explained
For a single-family residential lot of 2 acres or less with a dwelling on it, removing non-required trees is exempt as long as the protected trees removed don't add up to more than 30 inches of combined caliper in any one three-year period. Three trees of 12, 10 and 8 inches would reach the cap.
Required trees, under Sec. 9.01.08(A), aren't covered by the exemption.
Dangerous trees
Lake County's Exemption D covers trees on residential property that are a danger to people or property, when the owner complies with Florida Statutes 163.045. Under that statute, once an ISA certified arborist or a Florida-licensed landscape architect documents that a tree on a single-family home lot is an unacceptable risk, local governments can't demand a permit, fee, mitigation or replanting to remove it.
Other exemptions
- Hazardous trees on nonresidential property (Exemption C), with photo documentation.
- Agricultural land under F.S. 193.461 (Exemption E).
Check before cutting. The form we cite was revised in 2019. Confirm the current rules with Lake County's Office of Planning & Zoning, or with the city if you're inside Clermont, Minneola, Groveland or Montverde.
Sources
- Lake County Office of Planning & Zoning: Tree Removal Permit Exemption form (revised 2019/12)
- Florida Statutes 163.045 (2024): Tree pruning, trimming, or removal on residential property
Reviewed October 20, 2026. Rules, prices and contacts change, so check the source before relying on it.
Questions and answers
What is Lake County's 30-inch tree rule?
On a single-family lot of 2 acres or less with a house, Lake County's Exemption A allows removing non-required protected trees up to a combined 30 inches of caliper in any three-year period without a permit.
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