Land Use & Environmental Services

Tree Removal permits are regulated by the City's tree preservation ordinance which defines protected trees according to both their species and size and defines several reasons a protected tree might be approved for removal. These reasons include if it resolves a safety hazard, prevents the disruption of public services, prevent the spread of disease or pests, be consistent with good forestry practices, assure a reasonable use of the property, and if it is needed for the construction of essential improvements. No more than 10 trees may be removed through a tree removal permit. If a development project requires an EMP and proposes tree removal, then the tree removal would be covered under that.

LUES issues the Stormwater Operating Permits and manages the program for all stormwater management facilities operating permits, inspections, and renewals within the City of Tallahassee. Operating Permits are renewed every three years and inspections are performed yearly by LUES staff to ensure compliance with the Land Development Code.

Welcome to the Zoning Handbook. The Handbook (PDF) provides an introduction to the City of Tallahassee's Land Development Code, including definitions (Chapter 1), signs (Chapter 7), subdivisions and site plans (Chapter 9), and zoning (Chapter 10). The Zoning Handbook doesn’t replace the City Code. Rather, it's intended to orient you if you’re new to our Code to help you better understand how it works. Please let us know if you have questions! You can reach a Growth Management Department staff member by phone at 850-891-7001, option 4, or by email at zoning@talgov.com.