Arbor Day Brings New Growth to Dunedin

Published on October 01, 2023

Dunedin’s Arbor Day celebration has come and gone, but you can still celebrate National Arbor Day this Friday, April 29, 2022. Help celebrate the 150th anniversary of this “tree-mendous” holiday by planting a tree or continuing to care for your existing trees. https://www.arborday.org/trees/tips/ 

Did you know that Dunedin has a tree ordinance?

It was created to ensure public safety by promoting proper pruning. Excessive foliage removal, stub cuts, flush cuts, lions tailing, and topping are examples of improper pruning, which can lead to limb/tree failure and premature death. Removing large diameter limbs can also be highly detrimental to a tree’s stability, health, and life expectancy. Ask your tree service what the scope of work is for each tree and request the estimate to be detailed and itemized, explaining the diameter of each limb proposed for removal and the type of cuts being used. This will allow you to evenly compare all estimates and determine the best care for your trees. If you have any questions about the pruning being proposed, please reach out to the City Arborist for guidance. Tree service contractors must be registered with Dunedin’s Permitting Department to perform arboriculture services and are required to wear personal protective equipment such as hard hats, chaps, eye and ear protection.

Do you need a permit to trim or remove a tree?

Yes, most mature tree species require an approved Grand Tree Pruning Permit. Not sure if your tree is Grand? Reach out to the city arborist before seeking estimates or performing tree work. Most tree species are protected within Dunedin’s Tree Ordinance and require a tree removal permit application to be submitted and approved. For further information and other helpful links, please visit:  https://www.dunedingov.com/city-departments/parks-recreation/trees   

During the week of National Arbor Day, your social media post can turn into trees planted! The Arbor Day Foundation will plant one tree for EVERY Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook post with the hashtag #ArborDay, up to 75,000 trees. https://www.arborday.org/celebrate/