Digital subscriptions provided by the City of Gulfport THE GABBER.COM No. 2831
September 21, 2023- September 27, 2023
To Tree or Not to Tree Trees are an integral part of any yard. That is, until they become a problem. Trees that cause problems are relatively easy to remove. If a tree isn’t causing a specific problem, it can still be removed, but with stipulations. Florida state statutes allow landowners to remove a tree that poses an “unacceptable risk” to people or property, free of fees from local governments. At the Sept. 5 Gulfport City Council meeting, Councilmember April Thanos (Ward I) proposed an amendment that would make it more difficult for individuals to remove trees. Chapter 22, Article XX of the Gulfport Code of Ordinances lays out tree guidelines. This current ordinance allows landowners to remove trees after applying for and receiving a permit from the City. Along with this, there are stringent requirements as to the size of the replacement trees, as well as the fee for removal. Councilmember Thanos’ proposed amendment would add more specifications to those guidelines, but would not override the Florida Statutes.
CATHY SALUSTRI
By Patrick Heinzen
Councilmember April Thanos (Ward I) proposed a new tree ordinance that would make it harder for individuals to remove trees like this one.
Proposed Tree Ordinance Thanos’ proposed amendment promotes the importance of 2-inch, pot-grown trees in favor of the
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currently required 4-inch groundgrown trees. “Say you’re taking out a 10-inch tree. You have to replace it with five Trees continued on page 5