The City of Venice has long recognized the importance of trees and green space within the Community. The preservation of trees and native plant communities sustains and enhances the overall quality of life, health and economic development of a Community. Tree conservation provides positive impacts toward local climate, stormwater runoff, wind buffering, air quality, wildlife habitat and property values.   

A copy of Chapter 118, the Tree Code is available by requests from the city arborist.    The following are some important points for homeowners:

THREE TYPES OF PROTECTED TREES

• Protected Trees are any native tree that measures four (4) inches diameter and larger measured fifty-four (54) inches above grade (DBH); and Sabal Palms with 6 feet of clear trunk; and trees planted as part of an approved Tree Permit. 
• Heritage Trees are native trees that measure thirty (30) inches in diameter and larger measured fifty-four (54) inches above grade (DBH) or a multi-trunk native tree where the sum of the individual trunk diameters combines to equal forty-five (45) inches or greater measured at DBH. 
• Venetian Trees are native and non-native trees designated by Venice City Council as having significance, desirability or utility to the community.Designated trees will be protected by the City.

PERMIT REQUIREMENTS 

• Single Family Zoned Lots of 1//2 acre or less are exempt from Chapter 118, the tree Code except for the following: 
• Removal of Heritage Trees, Venetian Trees, and Canopy Road Trees requires a tree removal permit. 
• Pruning a branch that is 10 inches in diameter and larger measured 12 inches from the branch union from a Heritage or Venetian Tree requires a permit.
• Pruning a branch that is 2 inches in diameter andlarger within a Canopy Road Protection Zone (CRPZ) requires a tree permit and must be supervised by a Certified Arborist