Pasco County unanimously approved revised tree preservation rules aimed at protecting heritage trees and wetlands. The new ordinance increases removal fees to $75 per tree inch, while offering incentives for landscape preservation. Heritage trees now command higher fees, and developers face stricter canopy requirements under the new guidelines. The changes target rapid development practices affecting local forests over the past 15 years. Public comments suggested more aggressive measures were needed, though the updated regulations represent significant progress in environmental protection efforts. Developers must now submit detailed tree inventories before obtaining removal permits.
County Commissioners Approve Stricter Tree Preservation Ordinance
