Yes, all parcels created after the adoption of the Comprehensive Plan are subject to wetland protection policies established by Manatee County.

Replacement trees cannot be planted within public or private utilities easements or setbacks. However, existing trees within 25 feet of the right-of-way may be considered as replacements.

Yes, replacement trees must meet specific type and lot size requirements, as outlined in local regulations.

Yes, homeowners can remove street trees if specific conditions for removal are met. Please reference the Residential Street Tree Removal page for additional information.

Yes, with exceptions. Manatee County only has regulation over the required Residential Street Tree. Trees in the side or rear yards of single family properties are not subject to county regulations.

Yes, you can remove or replace trees in your private back or side yard without authorization. However, you cannot remove trees within the approved Greenbelt Buffer or Conservation Areas that are part of common areas managed by the Homeowner Association (HOA). For any questions, you can contact Environmental Field Inspections at (941) 748-4501 Ext 6895.

No, Manatee County does not require a permit to replace required street trees. Simply follow the Replacement Tree Requirements provided in the relevant Land Development Code section.

Yes, EPS staff frequently engage with potential property buyers and sellers to offer information about Manatee County's environmental policies.

Threatened and Endangered Species are regulated by either the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (U.S. F & W S) or the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission (FFWCC).

For existing developments, tree removal and replacement are managed through the Tree Removal Permit process. Staff ensures that selected plant species adhere to the correct USDA cold hardiness zone and follow the principle of right plant-right place.

Waterfront Structures, including boat docks, seawalls, and rip rap, are regulated by Manatee County in accordance with Section 511.17 of the Manatee County Land Development Code.

To apply for a Tree Removal Permit (TRP), you must submit an application through the Online Services Portal.

To report illegal tree removal, you can contact Code Enforcement at (941) 748-3094 or email them at code.enforcement@mymanatee.org.

If you need a dead tree removed from the right-of-way or a tree trimmed due to obstruction, please report the issue to Public Works.

The Manatee County Commission welcomes the opportunity to recognize exceptional individuals, groups, and events within the County. Proclamations and Certificates of Recognition are ceremonial documents issued by the Manatee County Board of County Commissioners to honor and celebrate events, recognize achievements, or increase public awareness of noteworthy causes, events, milestones, or achievements. Proclamations can be issued for a day(s), week(s), or month. Personal Proclamations for individuals or businesses will not be accepted. Individual accomplishments of local significance are more appropriately recognized with a Certificate of Recognition or congratulatory letter. These public service documents are not legally binding nor do they constitute an endorsement by the County or the Commission.

PROCLAMATION REQUIREMENTS

Requests must be submitted by any Manatee County resident or group. All request for recognition must be submitted online by utilizing the following schedule to be considered for the corresponding BOCC Regular Meeting Schedule.

An organization does not have exclusive rights to the day(s), week(s), or month of their proclamation. Proclamations issued in previous years will not be automatically re-issued; a new request must be submitted and approved. The County reserves the right to modify or deny any request and to make exceptions to these guidelines.

Proclamations can be issued for: Significant contributions and service to the community Cultural or historical occasions Charitable fundraising efforts Centennial (100th) birthdays Proclamations cannot be issued for: Matters of political controversy, ideological or religious beliefs, or individual convictions Anything that may suggest an official county position on a matter under consideration Events or organizations with no direct relationship to Manatee County Campaigns or events contrary to Manatee County policy or to the wellbeing of its citizens A letter from an individual Commissioner is an alternative acknowledgment for occasions that do not meet the proclamation criteria. Contact the County Commission office if you are seeking recognition of: Organization Milestones or Anniversaries (in 5 year increments) Deceased Individuals Recreational Events Conferences and conventions Welcoming Guests Annual Events and Celebrations Letters of support

The Board of County Commissioners meetings typically begin at 9:00 a.m. in the Manatee County Administration Building at 1112 Manatee Avenue West in downtown Bradenton.  Please refer to the agenda or monthly calendar to confirm meeting times and locations.

The meetings can be viewed live on www.mymanatee.org/mga and on Manatee Government Access (MGA) Spectrum Channel 644, Frontier Channel 30, and Comcast Channel 20 (within Manatee County).

To enter your comments into the public record for an upcoming meeting, you may do so in the following ways:

• You may deliver your comments in person (signing in is optional, not required to speak) to Commissioners in the Honorable Patricia M. Glass Chambers at the Manatee County Administration Building, 1112 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton,
• You may fill out the public comment form below in advance of the meeting. Be sure to include your name and submit your remarks.
• You can request to speak 24 hours before the meeting date (9:00 a.m. the day before). To sign in to speak prior to the meeting, go to Public Speaker Sign-Up Form (signing in is optional, not required to speak).

To register with Manatee County please complete and submit the Certified Backflow Prevention Assembly Service Provider Registration Checklist to the Cross Connection Control office by emailing water.saver@mymanatee.org. Contractors must possess a valid, up-to-date plumbing license, current insurance, backflow preventer testing certification, and a current test kit calibration report. For testing of fire line backflow preventers, the State's Fire Marshal certificate is required. Registered contractors are required to record backflow test results through the Backflow Inspection and Test Portal within 7 days of testing. Any reports submitted through mail, e-mail, or fax will not be accepted. Failed test reports are required to be entered no later than 1 business day after testing.

Agendas are posted through the agenda management system. Click the button below to access the system.  

Click to Access Agenda Online

Watch a video about how to use the system.

Manatee County adheres to SWFWMD regulations through Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Code policies that are implemented by environmental and natural resources staff during the development review process. For well questions, please visit the Natural Resources homepage.

Environmental Planning Staff meets with and assists applicants by recommending suitable plant species for specific planting situations, aiming to minimize conflicts between proposed plantings and improvements.

EPS staff conduct two inspections at each development site: one to verify proper silt fence staking before installation and another after installation to ensure correct placement. Adjustments may be recommended to protect tree root systems or delineate wetland buffers accurately.

The Environmental Planning Section achieves its objectives by thoroughly assessing a project's civil and landscape plan set, along with reviewing applicable environmental reports provided with development projects.

The Environmental Planning Section achieves a balance between growth and development by thoroughly reviewing and addressing all submitted natural resource-related documents throughout the entire project review process. They provide feedback to the Planning Department Case Manager, which is then included in a comprehensive comment report provided to the applicant.

The Environmental Planning Section staff conducts various inspections, including those for exotic and nuisance species removal, silt fence staking and screening, wetland buffer enhancement or wetland mitigation, and tree removal/replacement.

Yes, with few exceptions, an ESCP is required for every development project in accordance with Section 353 of the Land Development Code.

Trees within the Right of Way (ROW) require a ROW Use Permit in addition to the Tree Removal Permit. ROW Use Permit

In addition to reviewing technical documents, the Environmental Planning Section ensures that landscape plans incorporate measures such as tree protection, accurate tree replacement ratios, roadway and perimeter landscape buffers, and landscaping for vehicle use areas.

The Environmental Planning Section also ensures that landscape plans include measures for tree protection, accurate tree replacement ratios, roadway and perimeter landscape buffers, and landscaping for vehicle use areas. Additionally, they monitor and manage residential street tree requirements and conduct inspections for exotic and nuisance species removal, silt fence staking and screening, as well as wetland buffer enhancement or wetland mitigation.

Common areas, such as those found in condos, villas, and manufactured home parks, are properties maintained by shared associations like Homeowners Associations (HOAs), Community Development Districts (CDDs), or Co-Ops. These areas, which include front entrances, roadway buffers, and greenbelt buffers, are subject to regulation under the Manatee County Land Development Code (LDC).

Silt fencing is typically placed around the perimeter of the construction area to contain sediment. The plan may also include details on dewatering activities, ensuring that there is no off-site sedimentation.

 Additional tree species https://ffl.ifas.ufl.edu/resources/apps/plant-guide/

Need help choosing a tree species? https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/manatee/

How much space does my shade tree need?

Street trees are trees planted within 25 feet of the right-of-way along the frontage of single-family homes within residential developments approved after October 15, 1990.

FEDERAL LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES The Board's 2022 platform reflects the legislative priorities that will help Manatee County better achieve its mission to provide efficient, effective, responsive government that is always mindful of our sensitive natural environment and serve our residents and visitors, while achieving the Commission's vision for the County as a premier place in which to live, work and play. DOWNLOAD MANATEE COUNTY'S 2022 FEDERAL LEGISLATIVE PLATFORM (LINK: https://www.mymanatee.org/UserFiles/Servers/Server_7588306/File/2022-Federal-Agenda-04-2022-NO-BLEED.pdf) (LINK: https://youtu.be/8BmCNgk-rF4) 2022 MANATEE COUNTY LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES Ft. Hamer Bridge FT. HAMER BRIDGE & ROADWAY WIDENING With the tremendous growth in migration and corresponding residential development of east and north Manatee County regions and subsequent pressures on transportation services and traffic movement, the County will continue traditional rebuilding and capacity widening projects. This will be accomplished mostly through the rebuilding and widening of existing two-lane corridors to four-lane corridors along existing thoroughfare roadways. Upon evaluation of the Federal Infrastructure and Jobs Act also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Framework (BIF), specific project selection criteria priorities include such features as interstate movement of goods and services, hurricane evacuation routes, highway capacity improvements and state and local road relievers to the interstate highway system. Community VeteransVETERANS SERVICES & HOUSING County leaders envision remodeling the old jail facility which abuts the Judicial complex to provide shelter for local homeless veterans who don’t have anywhere else to go. The center is expected to provide temporary housing, mental health services, job training and other resources. Palmetto Trails SitePALMETTO TRAILS CONNECTIVITY & MOBILITY PROJECT With Palmetto’s pedestrian and bicycle fatality rates significantly higher than the national average and projected traffic increases of 46% over the next 20 years, safety is a priority. Residents who can travel for work, spend a quarter of their household income on transportation, with 11% zero-car households requiring public or multimodal options. The Palmetto Trails Network Plan (PTCMP) creates seven multimodal connections between local schools, parks and community activity centers. Preconstruction activities will be finished before June 20, 2025, and the entire program of improvements will be completed prior to September 2030. Affordable Housing ProjectAFFORDABLE HOUSING Manatee County and much of Florida is experiencing a problem in the availability of affordable housing. The Florida Congressional delegation is urged to act in unity to support solutions to this crisis. While the final FY22 Congressional spending bill recently signed into law provides meaningful increases for vital HUD and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) programs, far more resources are needed to address our growing affordable housing and homelessness situation. Manatee County has seen the immense benefits of the 4% and 9% Federal tax credit programs and supports legislation that expands the availability of Affordable Housing Tax Credits on a permanent basis. HR 2573, the Affordable Housing Credit Improvement Act is one bill before Congress that could potentially improve the situation for many. Significant additional housing investments are needed to address a critical driver of inflation: skyrocketing rents. Targeted housing investments must be retained in any legislation and future budget reconciliation packages to help bring down housing costs for America’s lowest-income and most marginalized households. Manatee PROTECTING OUR MANATEES Representative Vern Buchanan (R-FL) has introduced legislation to grant manatees the highest level of federal protection available as manatee deaths reach historic levels. The Florida Wildlife Commission (FWC) reports nearly 1000 manatees have died in 2021. That number is more than Florida’s total number for any other year. Even more alarming is that by FWS’ (the Fish and Wildlife Services’) own estimates there are only around 6,500 West Indian manatees remaining in the southeastern United States. The Manatee Protection Act, H.R. 4946, would officially upgrade the West Indian manatee from “threatened” to “endangered” under the Endangered Species Act. Upgrading their status to "endangered" under the ESA will not only require the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to refocus their attention on manatee population rehabilitation, but also allow for increased federal resources including more funding and personnel.

2023 STATE LEGISLATIVE AGENDA (LINK: https://youtu.be/-tHC2iylwaM) 2022 LEGISLATIVE AGENDA Manatee County's 2022 State Legislative Platform highlights local priorities including Piney Point funding, appropriations to widen Moccasin Wallow Road, better funding for community-based foster care, and more. DOWNLOAD MANATEE COUNTY'S 2022 STATE LEGISLATIVE PLATFORM (LINK: https://www.mymanatee.org/UserFiles/Servers/Server_7588306/File/Government/BCC/Legislative%20Platform/2022-State-Legislative-Platform-Manatee-County.pdf) (LINK: https://youtu.be/MAz4WJQsRDE) 2022 MANATEE COUNTY LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES Piney Point PINEY POINT FUNDING Manatee County requests continued priority funding to ensure the safe and efficient closure of the Piney Point reservoirs to reduce potential for future degradation of water quality/ecological and economic viability of the Tampa Bay region. FDEP clearly identified Deep well injection as a critical element for the necessary water disposal that will enable the ultimate closure of the Piney Point facility once and for all, to permanently eliminate the threat to the environment and the community. Funding should include direct reimbursement for the cost of drilling the well, the ongoing discharges, and full funding for the closure of Piney Point. Traffic MOCCASIN WALLOW ROAD Manatee County requests a non-recurring state legislative appropriation of $7.5 million to match local funding to widen Moccasin Wallow Road between 1-75 and U.S. 301 in one of the county's fastest growing areas. The funding will allow the County to widen the road from two lanes to four lanes and add bicycle lanes and sidewalks. Foster kids COMMUNITY-BASED FOSTER CARE Manatee County supports the Florida Department of Children & Families' invaluable role in overseeing the care and placement of Florida's 23,000 estimated children in foster care due to child abuse and or neglect. Manatee County -which ranked in the top four counties in Florida for child removals in both 2018 and 2019 -also supports immediate equitable funding for the child welfare system which has been insufficiently and inequitably funded by the state for many years. Specifically, Manatee County SUPPORTS a state funding formula that does not rely on risk pool funds but adequately and equitably distributes state funding to support community-based care lead agencies that provide child welfare services in our community as intended by SB 1326 passed during the 2020 Legislative Session. Insufficient and inequitable funding leads to increased caseload sizes for Case Managers, less ability to focus on prevention and diversion services keeping children out of foster care and a general lack of ability to be flexible when responding to child welfare needs in the community.. TRANSPORTATION & INFRASTRUCTURE KEY BRIDGES Manatee County supports the expeditious replacement of the bridges leading to Anna Maria Island; via Cortez Road, Manatee Avenue and Longboat Pass as well as the expansion of the Fort Hamer Bridge. DESOTO BRIDGE REPLACEMENT Manatee County supports the State's Bradenton-Palmetto Connector PD&E and requests consideration be given to all capacity alternatives identified in the Central Manatee Network Alternatives Analysis that will facilitate improved mobility over the Manatee River. The DeSoto Bridge replacement is a top priority for multiple organizations since the project will facilitate improved north/south capacity on the U.S. 41 corridor. PALMETTO TRAILS CONNECTIVITY AND MOBILITY PROJECT Manatee County requests support in state funds for the design of a bicycle/pedestrian bridge over the 4 lane U.S. 41 roadway at 17th Street East in Palmetto. The pedestrian crossing at US 41 and 17th street at Lincoln Park has been identified in the Palmetto Trails study as an intersection requiring improvements for both traffic movement and pedestrian safety. The proposed pedestrian overpass at this intersection represents the needed pedestrian safety measures to complement the Palmetto Trails Mobility study recommendations as well as providing access to a community park, splash park. Pool, soccer fields, football, and basketball courts. BROADBAND Manatee County supports measures that increase broadband accessibility including encouraging private investment in the deployment of infrastructure in rural and underserved areas. AFFORDABLE HOUSING Manatee County is experiencing a major shortage of affordable housing options. As our population continues to grow, it is imperative that the state use the statutorily dedicated funds for actual housing needs and to increase the number of affordable housing units. Business leaders point to the shortage of workforce housing stock asa significant reason they have trouble attracting and retaining talent. Manatee County supports allocating the full amount of dedicated documentary tax revenues to fund the State Housing Initiative Partnership (SHIP) Trust Fund as well as the Sadowski Housing Trust Fund and its distribution to local governments for affordable housing activities. ENVIRONMENTAL OYSTER & CLAM RESTORATION FOR WATER QUALITY Manatee County requests $950,000 in state assistance for an oyster and clam research and restoration pilot project in the coastal waters of Manatee County. The pilot project will quantify the roles of oysters and clams in improving water quality, and their ability to control blue green algae and red tide bloom intensity in Tampa Bay and Sarasota Bay. GREEN BRIDGE FISHING PIER Manatee County requests $1 million in state funding for the design and planning for demolition of the Green Bridge Fishing Pier. The pier has been closed to vehicular traffic for years but it has become a popular fishing spot for many locals. The pier which extends into the Manatee River, would be replaced with a new wooden fishing pier. The project will transfer a structurally deficient bridge into an artificial reef offshore. ANNA MARIA ISLAND BEACH EROSION CONTROL Manatee County requests $2.3 million for construction and monitoring

The primary duties of the EPS involve assessing development proposals to ensure environmental compliance with the Manatee County Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Code. Additionally, EPS staff addresses complaints related to violations of these requirements and conducts inspections to verify if projects adhere to approved plans or if violations have occurred in existing developments.

Canopy Tree (produces one main trunk and normally reaches a height of 30 feet or more upon maturity)

• Min. 10 feet
• 2.5 inch caliper (trunk width)
• 25-50 gallons

Understory Tree (produces single trunk or multiple trunks and normally reaches a height of less than 30 feet upon maturity)

• Min. 6 feet
• 1.5 inch caliper (trunk width)
• 25-30 gallons

Palm Trees

• Two required for each tree removed
• Min. 15 feet
• A maximum of twenty-five (25) percent of all proposed residential street trees may be Palm trees (per LDC Sec. 701.6.1), and a maximum of forty (40) percent of all required trees may be Palm trees (per LDC Sec. 701.8.17)

Corner lots must provide a minimum of two street trees, with one tree required per frontage.

You must have your backflow preventer tested by a company from Manatee County's Authorized Testers list within 30 days. If it fails inspection, repair or replace it, and re-certify within the same timeframe. Failure to comply may result in the County scheduling the inspection at your expense, at a minimum of $50.00. For removal requests, submit a petition to the Cross Connection Control Office for approval.

NOTE: This calendar may not reflect special or emergency meetings which may be scheduled as required. Modifications to this calendar may be made at the discretion of the Board of County Commissioners (BCC).

Unless otherwise noted, the meetings listed below will begin at 9:00 a.m. in the Manatee County Government Administration Building at 1112 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton.  Please refer to the agenda or the monthly calendar to confirm room locations.

JANUARY

• Tuesday, January 7 – BCC Special Meeting
• Wednesday, January 8 – BCC Regular Meeting
• Thursday, January 9 – Delegation Meeting
• Tuesday, January 14 – BCC Land Use Meeting
• Thursday, January 16 – Planning Commission Meeting
• Tuesday, January 28 – BCC Regular Meeting

FEBRUARY

• Tuesday, February 4 – BCC Regular Meeting
• Wednesday, February 5 – BCC Work Session
• Wednesday, February 5 – Council of Governments Meeting (4:00 p.m.)
• Thursday, February 6 – BCC Land Use Meeting
• Thursday, February 13 – Planning Commission Meeting
• Tuesday, February 18 – BCC Regular Meeting

MARCH

• Tuesday, March 4 – BCC Regular Meeting
• Wednesday, March 5 – BCC Work Session
• Thursday, March 6 – Land Use Meeting
• Thursday, March 13 – Planning Commission Meeting
• Tuesday, March 25 – BCC Regular Meeting

APRIL

• Tuesday, April 1 – BCC Regular Meeting
• Wednesday, April 2 – BCC Work Session
• Thursday, April 3 – BCC Land Use Meeting
• Thursday, April 10 – Planning Commission Meeting
• Thursday, April 15 – BCC Regular Meeting
• Tuesday, April 29 - Joint Meeting with the Town of Longboat Key (1:30 p.m.)

MAY

• Tuesday, May 6 – BCC Regular Meeting
• Wednesday, May 7 – BCC Work Session
• Wednesday, May 7 – Council of Governments Meeting (4:00 p.m.)
• Thursday, May 8 – BCC Land Use Meeting
• Tuesday, May 15 – Planning Commission Meeting
• Thursday, May 20 – BCC Regular Meeting

JUNE

• Tuesday, June 3 – BCC Regular Meeting
• Thursday, June 5 – BCC Land Use Meeting
• Monday, June 9 – BCC Budget Work Session, Budget Presentation and Decision Unit Review
• Tuesday, June 10 – Budget Work Session, Constitutional Officers and Judicial Programs, and Decision Unit Review II
• Wednesday, June 11 – BCC Budget Work Session, Capital Improvement Projects, Fund Summary, and Utilities
• Thursday, June 12 – Planning Commission Meeting
• Tuesday, June 17 – BCC Regular Meeting
• Wednesday, June 18 – BCC Additional Meeting (only if needed)
• Thursday, June 19 – Port Authority Meeting

June 23 through July 25 – BCC Recess (No BCC Meetings)

JULY

• Thursday, July 10 – Planning Commission Meeting
• Tuesday, July 29 – BCC Regular Meeting
• Thursday, July 31 – BCC Budget Meeting, Budget Reconciliation/Approval of Tentative Millage Rate

AUGUST

• Tuesday, August 5 – BCC Regular Meeting
• Wednesday, August 6 – BCC Work Session
• Wednesday, August 6 – Council of Governments (4:00 p.m.)
• Thursday, August 7 – BCC Land Use Meeting
• Thursday, August 14 – Planning Commission Meeting
• Thursday, August 19 – BCC Regular Meeting
• Wednesday, August 20 – BCC Additional Meeting (only if needed)

SEPTEMBER

• Tuesday, September 2 – BCC Regular Meeting
• Wednesday, September 3 – BCC Work Session
• Thursday, September 4 – BCC Land Use Meeting
• Thursday, September 11 – Planning Commission Meeting
• Tuesday, September 16 – BCC Regular Meeting
• Wednesday, September 17 – Port Authority Meeting (Port Manatee)
• Wednesday, September 17 – BCC Additional Meeting (only if needed)
• Dates for Budget Public Hearings to be determined

OCTOBER

• Tuesday, October 7 – BCC Regular Meeting
• Wednesday, October 8 – BCC Work Session
• Thursday, October 9 – BCC Land Use Meeting
• Thursday, October 16 – Planning Commission Meeting
• Tuesday, October 21 – BCC Regular Meeting
• Thursday, October 23 – BCC Additional Meeting (only if needed)

NOVEMBER

• Tuesday, November 4 – BCC Regular Meeting
• Wednesday, November 5 – BCC Work Session
• Tuesday, November 5 – Council of Governments Meeting (4:00 p.m.)
• Thursday, November 6 – BCC Land Use Meeting
• Thursday, November 13 – Planning Commission Meeting
• Tuesday, November 18 – BCC Regular Meeting

DECEMBER

• Tuesday, December 2 – BCC Regular Meeting
• Wednesday, December 3 – BCC Work Session
• Thursday, December 4 – BCC Land Use Meeting
• Thursday, December 11 – Planning Commission Meeting
• Tuesday, December 16 – BCC Regular Meeting
• Thursday, December 18 – Port Authority Meeting (Port Manatee)

Tree planting requirements vary based on linear ROW frontage:

• 100+ feet of linear right of way (ROW) frontage: one canopy tree for every 50 feet of frontage
• 60-100 feet of linear ROW: one canopy per frontage
• < 60 feet of linear ROW frontage: one smaller maturing, canopy or one understory tree per lot, regardless of the number of street trees removed.

Please note: Tree Species may be subject to Homeowners Association (HOA) Approval. Contact your HOA for final species selection.

Canopy Trees

Requirements: 2 ½ in. caliper, 25-50 gallon, minimum height 10 feet

• Black Gum Tupelo
• Gumbo Limbo
• Hickory
• Live Oak, Highrise Oak, Cathedral Live Oak
• Loblolly Bay
• Longleaf Pine
• Red Maple
• Slash Pine
• Southern Magnolia
• Southern Red Cedar
• Sweetbay Magnolia
• Sweetgum (Rotundiloba-seedless)
• Sycamore
• Winged Elm

Understory Trees

Requirements: 1 ½ in. caliper, 25-30 gallons, minimum height 6 feet

• Crepe Myrtle
• Dahoon Holly
• Eugenia - natives only
• Golden/Yellow Trumpet
• Holly - Eagleston
• Japanese Blueberry
• Japanese Privet (Ligustrum Japonica)
• Little Gem Magnolia
• Loquat
• Podocarpus - tree form only
• Queen’s Crepe Myrtle
• Shady Lady Black Olive
• Walter’s Viburnum - tree form only

Palms

Requirements: Two palms are required to replace one tree. Palms must have a minimum overall height of 15 feet at the time of planting.

• Bismarck Palm
• Canary Island Date Palm
• Royal Palm
• Ribbon Palm
• Royal Palm
• Sabal-Cabbage Palm
• Royal Palm

HELPFUL LINKS

• Additional tree species can be found using FLORIDA-FRIENDLY LANDSCAPING™ PLANT GUIDE
• Need help with choosing a tree species? Visit Manatee County UF/IFAS Extension Office
• How much space does my shade tree need?

Staff reviews civil and landscape plans within development project submissions to ensure compliance with regulations regarding accurate tree removal and replacement ratios, roadway landscape buffers, perimeter screening buffers, vehicle use area landscaping, and foundation landscaping requirements as per the Land Development Code.

Manatee County operates under the guidelines set forth in The 1996 Mangrove Trimming and Preservation Act (403.9321 - 403.9333 F.S.). However, unlike some other jurisdictions, Manatee County has not been granted delegated authority by the FDEP. Therefore, mangrove areas in the county are regulated similarly to other wetland areas in accordance with LDC Section 706.

The Board is the legislative branch and governing body of Manatee County Government. The Board legislates policy to protect the health, welfare, safety and quality of life of Manatee County residents. The Board of County Commissioners is comprised of seven members. Five members are elected from single-member districts, and two are elected county-wide. Each district commissioner must reside in the district for which he or she seeks election. County Commissioners have a number of responsibilities, including: Perform legislative functions of government by developing policy for the management of Manatee County Disseminate information to the public through ordinances and resolutions Approve the County's operating and capital budgets Approve the County's Capital Improvement Program, which is a schedule of all County infrastructure projects Take action on any programs to improve the County and the welfare of its residents Appoint the County Administrator, County Attorney and numerous advisory and regulatory board members Serve as the Port Authority Serve on local, regional and state boards More information about the powers and duties of the County Commissioners can be found in Florida Statute Chapter 125.01.

The Environmental Planning Section typically reviews documents such as:

• Wetland Delineation Report
• Wetland Mitigation Plan
• Wetland Buffer Enhancement Plan
• Threatened and Endangered Biological Survey Report
• Best Management Practices Plan
• Erosion and Sediment Control Plan
• Well Management Plan

If a street tree is removed without documentation from a certified arborist or licensed landscape architect, it must be replaced in accordance with the Land Development Code within 30 days of removal. Replacement trees must be graded Florida #1 and planted within 25 feet back from the right of way.

If protected species or their nesting, burrowing, or denning sites are discovered at the project site, county staff direct the project's applicant to contact the relevant Federal or State agency for specific instructions, guidelines, or required permits. County staff may also request additional surveys if deemed necessary.

Development Review staff requires the WMP as part of the review process and provides it to Natural Resources Department staff responsible for Well Permitting. They ensure that the wells are properly permitted or have been abandoned or plugged in accordance with SWFWMD requirements.

If your property is subject to an HOA, you should consult them for approval before replacing trees, as they may have specific landscape requirements.

A WMP for each well must include a digital photo of the well with nearby reference structures, GPS coordinates, details about how the well was secured during construction, and its final disposition (e.g., used, capped, or plugged).

A Backflow Prevention Assembly is a device installed on a water system to prevent contaminated water from flowing backward into the clean water supply. It ensures that water only moves in one direction, protecting public health by preventing pollutants, chemicals, or bacteria from entering drinking water.

Environmental Planning staff mandates that the applicant identify the location of any existing wells on the parcel. If wells are present, a Well Management Plan (WMP) must be submitted.

The cost for a Tree Removal Permit (TRP) is $144.00.

The Environmental Planning Section is dedicated to conserving and protecting the natural resources of the county while also considering the need for growth and development.

The main purpose of the ESCP is to prevent silt or soil from traveling off-site during construction activities.

Tree removal in common areas, commercial properties, or conservation areas requires a Tree Removal Permit (TRP) from Manatee County.

Florida’s Public Records Law, Ch. 119, F.S., provides a right of access to the records of state and local governments as well as private entities acting on their behalf. In the absence of a statutory exemption, this right of access applies to all materials made or received by an agency, in connection with the transaction of official business which are used to perpetuate, communicate or formalize knowledge.

The purpose of this section is to establish standards aimed at safeguarding critical habitat for flora and fauna species of endangered, threatened, or special concern status in the county. It ensures that appropriate measures are taken to protect these habitats, including setting aside land and implementing protective management plans.

Generally, the construction, expansion, or reconstruction of waterfront or erosion control structures requires obtaining an Administrative Permit. Additionally, compliance with the following criteria is necessary: 1. General Permit requirements by the Army Corps of Engineers (COE). 2. General consent criteria of the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) requirements (§ 403.813(2) F.S.). 3.Separate permits issued by DEP, COE, and the Southwest Florida Water Management District for specific waterfront structures must be obtained before construction commences.

Conservation areas, including conservation easements, wetland buffers, and utility easements, are regulated under the LDC and require a Tree Removal Permit (TRP) for tree removal.

The Environmental Review Section reviews various documents related to a project's civil and landscape plans, including:

Wetland protection in Manatee County commenced with the adoption of the Comprehensive Plan in 1989, followed by the implementation of the Land Development Code.

A (tree removal permit) is required for common areas managed by Homeowner Associations (HOAs), commercial sites, and conservation areas.

For further details about the TRP application process, refer to our Tree Removal Instructions page (PDF). LINK: Tree Removal Instructions Page - https://www.mymanatee.org/UserFiles/Servers/Server_7588306/File/Departments/Building%20&%20Development%20Services/Environmental%20Review/Tree%20Removal%20Instructions%20for%20Customers.pdf

Detailed instructions for completing the TRP application through Online Services are available on the Planning Instructions page of our Online Services instructions page. LINK: Online Services Instructions Page - https://www.mymanatee.org/departments/building___development_services/online_services/instructions/

For additional details on development requirements in Manatee County, please visit our Environmental Review for Development page. You can find user-friendly links for residents, visitors, and prospective citizens of Manatee County on this page.

Additional information about tree preservation and removal/replacement can be found in Section 700 of the Land Development Code, and resources such as Online Notification for Tree Removal/Replacement on Single Family Lots, Florida Friendly Landscaping guidelines, Trees and Power lines regulations, and FPL's Guide to Trees and Power Lines are also available. Additionally, a list of trees suitable for Central Florida is provided for reference.

LINK: Manatee County Natural Resources Interactive Map Viewer http://www.mymanatee.org/gisapps/mobile/index.html?type=natural-resources LINK: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Florida's Endangered Species Webpage https://www.fws.gov/office/florida-ecological-services LINK: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Information for Planning and Consultation (IPAC) https://ecos.fws.gov/ipac/ LINK: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's Wildlife Webpage https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/ LINK: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's Bald Eagle Management Webpage https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/wildlife/bald-eagle/management/ LINK: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's Florida Wildlife Conservation Guide https://myfwc.com/conservation/value/fwcg/

Wetland Buffer Enhancement Plan

The State of Florida provides a manual for erosion and sediment control, available for designers and reviewers. You can access the manual here (PDF).

Open Space and Native Habitat Assessment

Exotic invasive trees, such as Paper Mulberry and Australian Pine, are prohibited in Manatee County due to their adverse effects on the environment. While their removal typically doesn't require a Tree Removal Permit, exceptions apply if they were part of required landscaping or if removal involves an acre or more of land. In such cases, a plan demonstrating erosion control and tree protection for non-invasive species must be submitted, and the permit fee may be waived.

A backflow preventer is required if your property has a swimming pool, in-ground irrigation system, secondary water source (like a well or reclaimed water), a body of water, a fire sprinkler system, or a cross connection. If you irrigate with potable water, two backflow preventers are required—one at the meter and another on the irrigation line. These requirements comply with federal and state regulations, as well as local Manatee County codes.

Mangrove trimming is regulated by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) and local jurisdictions.

Tree planting, removal, and preservation are regulated by the Manatee County Government to safeguard and improve valuable natural resources.

Water wells are regulated by the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD).

Best Management Practices Plan / Erosion and Sediment Control Plan

The Environmental Review Section oversees the review of Tree Preservation and Tree Removal & Replacement requirements.

Habitat Preservation is mandated by both the Comprehensive Plan and the Land Development Code (LDC) and is carefully reviewed by environmental reviewers during the development review process.

Habitat preservation adjacent to wetland habitats enhances the value of wildlife habitats. It often involves preserving upland habitat on-site, which can serve as mitigation for impacts to wetlands elsewhere on the property.