Florida is a beautiful state with an abundance of native plants and trees. The Florida Model Native Plant Landscape Ordinance requires landscapers to do their utmost to protect these plants and the native habitats they create. In many cases, this means using native plants to complete anywhere from 50% to 90% of the landscape. 

Other requirements that are important for landscapers and homeowners to take note of include the following:

 

Existing Trees

The law requires a permit to remove any native trees that are four caliper inches or larger. These trees cannot be damaged, moved or removed during any phase of landscaping or construction with the appropriate permit in place. Moreover, any existing trees that are removed must be replaced with a native tree that is of equal or greater diameter.

If a homeowner does not wish to replace the tree, they may pay a tree replacement fee. This is paid to the Tree Mitigation Trust, which uses the fee to plant a similar tree on city property. 

 

Grass

Non-native species of turf can be used within Florida landscapes provided they are included and accounted for within the landscaping plan. This grass should have minimal watering requirements.

 

Drawing up the Residential and Commercial Landscape Plan

Single-family residences are required to submit a landscape plan prior to commencing work. This plan should list all the plant species to be used and include a drawing of the finished landscape. The plant percentages must be calculated to show how much of the landscape each plant will cover.

Commercial properties are required to have this work performed by a Florida Certified Landscape Designer. The plan must include the same information as for the residential plan. However, it also must include information on the irrigation system, detailed dimensions of new and proposed structures on the site, and the full information relating to the business and its ownership.

 

Plant Professionals

The team at Plant Professionals adheres to the Florida Model Native Plant Landscape Ordinance and can help select species and placement that are in accordance with the law. We invite you to contact us at 305-259-0503 to learn more about our services and to begin the process of drafting a plan for your property.