Can I remove a Grand Oak on my property?

In Tampa, Grand Oaks (trees with a trunk diameter of 34 inches or greater) are heavily protected. You cannot remove them without a specific permit from the City, which requires an ISA Certified Arborist to document that the tree is hazardous, diseased, or causing structural damage. Removing one without a permit carries fines up to $15,000.

Do you use cranes for removal?

Yes. In dense neighborhoods like South Tampa and Hyde Park, there is often no room to drop a tree safely. We use large cranes to lift tree sections vertically over your house, ensuring zero impact to your roof, pool, or landscaping.

Is a permit required for dead trees?

Yes, in most cases within Tampa city limits, you still need a permit verification for dead trees, especially if they are large species. This prevents people from girdling (killing) trees intentionally to bypass regulations. We handle this verification process for you.

Permit & Removal Experts

Safe Removal.
Zero Fines.

Tampa's tree laws are strict. We navigate the Grand Oak Ordinance and use advanced crane technology to remove hazardous trees without damaging your property or your wallet.

Free On-Site Eval

The Law

Grand Oak Protection

In Tampa, a "Grand Oak" is any oak tree with a diameter of 32 inches or more. Removing one without a permit is a major violation. The City requires an Arborist Report proving the tree is hazardous or diseased before they will approve removal.

Tight Access: In neighborhoods like Seminole Heights and Davis Islands, homes are close together. Felling a tree is impossible. We use cranes to pick the tree apart piece by piece, lifting it safely over your roof.

We Handle The Red Tape:

Assessment: Measuring DBH (Diameter at Breast Height).
Reporting: Filing the ISA Certified Arborist Report with the City.
Mitigation: Calculating required replacement trees to meet canopy codes.

Large Grand Oak in a residential Tampa yard

We Protect You From Fines.

Methods

Precision Removal

Safe extraction for every scenario, from open lots to fenced backyards.

Crane Removal

The gold standard for safety. We lift heavy oak logs vertically, ensuring they never touch your lawn or driveway. Essential for storm-damaged trees leaning on structures.

Hazardous Trees

Removal of dead, dying, or structurally compromised trees. We identify "included bark" and rot pockets that make trees liable to fail during hurricane season.

Stump Grinding

We grind stumps 6-12 inches below grade. For Live Oaks, we also chase surface roots that may be cracking your driveway or foundation.

Service Area

We operate throughout Hillsborough and Pinellas, knowing the specific tree ordinances for each municipality.

South Tampa Hyde Park Davis Islands Seminole Heights Brandon St. Petersburg

Removal FAQ

How long does it take to get a permit?

In the City of Tampa, standard permit review takes about 10-15 business days. However, if the tree is an "Imminent Hazard" (about to fall), we can often get an expedited permit or emergency authorization within 24-48 hours.

Does home insurance cover tree removal?

Typically, insurance only pays if the tree has fallen on a covered structure (house, garage, fence) and caused damage. They usually do *not* cover preventative removal of standing dead trees. Check your specific policy.

Do I have to replant?

Yes. Tampa requires "mitigation." If you remove a protected tree, you usually must plant new trees (often Live Oaks or Elms) to replace the lost canopy inches, or pay into the city's tree fund.

Removal Done Right.

Trust the local experts to handle your trees safely and legally.

Call (855) 467-1131

Safe Removal. Zero Fines.