HomeMy WebLinkAboutEnvironmental Stewardship Committee (ESC) - 11 Feb 2026 - Agenda - Pdf
City of Atlantic Beach
Agenda
Environmental Stewardship Committee (ESC) Meeting
Wednesday, February 11, 2026 - 6:00 p.m.
City Hall, Commission Chamber
800 Seminole Road, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233
Page(s)
1. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
3. COURTESY OF THE FLOOR (5 MINS.)
4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
4.A.
Approve minutes of the January 14, 2026 regular Environmental Stewardship
Committee meeting.
ESC 01.14.2026 Minutes (draft)
3 - 12
4.B.
Approve minutes of the January 28, 2026 regular Environmental Stewardship
Committee meeting.
ESC Minutes 01.28.2026 (draft)
13 - 20
5. OLD BUSINESS
Preparation for March 2, 2026 Workshop with Commission
5.A.
ESC 2027 and 2026 Priorities
20250611 ESC 2025-2026 Priorities
21 - 26
5.B.
Chapter 23
No to tree removal in setbacks
Tree_Protection_Report
Developer Tree Recommendations - CoAB Code
Chapter 23 Redline 10.16.25 from ESC to Commission
27 - 91
5.C.
Article about loss of ancient oak in Atlantic Beach
https://www.news4jax.com/news/local/2026/02/02/living-landmark-atlantic-
beach-neighbors-voice-frustrations-after-250-year-old-live-oak-removed-for-
construction/
6. STATUS OF UPCOMING EVENTS-COMMUNICATIONS-PROJECTS
2/21/2026 – Weed Wrangle & The Lorax
2/25/2026 – Public info gathering/analysis
Framework for marsh pilot work
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Environmental Stewardship Committee (ESC) - 11 Feb 2026
7. COMMISSION AND/OR STAFF REPORTS
7.A.
Monthly Tree Report - From now on, this report will be provided on the 2nd
ESC Meeting of the month by the City Arborist.
8. CHAIR REMARKS
9. MEMBERS CLOSING REMARKS
10. NEW BUSINESS
11. RECAP OF DECISIONS, ACTION ITEMS AND NEXT STEPS
12. ADJOURNMENT
Any person wishing to speak to the Environmental Stewardship Committee on any matter at this meeting should
submit a Comment Card located at the entrance to Commission Chamber prior to the start of the meeting.
This meeting will be live-streamed and videotaped. The video recording will be posted within four business days
on the City's website. To access live or recorded videos, visit www.coab.us/live.
In accordance with the American with Disabilities Act and Section 286.26 of the Florida Statutes, persons with
disabilities needing special accommodations to participate in this meeting should contact Deputy City Ladayija
Nichols at 247-5821 or at City Hall, 800 Seminole Road, Atlantic Beach, Florida not less than three (3) days prior
to the date of this meeting.
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Environmental Stewardship Committee (ESC)
January 14, 2026
MINUTES
Environmental Stewardship Committee (ESC) Meeting
Wednesday, January 14, 2026 - 6:00 PM
City Hall, Commission Chamber
800 Seminole Road, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233
Present: Anastasia Houston, ESC Member
Amy Palmer, ESC Member
Todd Miner, ESC Member
Sarah Boren, ESC Chair
Bruce Andrews, ESC Member
Daniele Giovannucci, ESC Member
Christina Kelcourse, ESC Member
Amy Franqui, ESC Member
Also Present: Amanda Askew, Neighborhoods Department Dir. (NDD)
1. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
A. Approval of Agenda
MOTION: To APPROVE the agenda.
Motion: Bruce Andrews
Second: Christina Kelcourse
Motion passed 8 to 0.
3. COURTESY OF THE FLOOR (5 MINS.)
A. Guest and Topic: Priorities Discussion with Deputy City Manager
Chair Sarah Boren welcomed Interim City Manager Kevin Hogencamp and explained
that the purpose of having him attend was to discuss priority alignment between the ESC
and the city commission. Chair Boren shared that she had sent specific questions to City
Manager Hogencamp regarding the definition of priorities, how many priorities the ESC
should recommend to the commission, and what additional information should be
provided for each priority.
Chair Boren noted that two major confusions had occurred in the previous year: the
definition of a "priority" and the presentation of the work plan versus priorities. She
explained that Mayor Ford had described priorities as urgent matters where "the house
is on fire," while Commissioner Kelly suggested priorities could be "cathedral building."
Chair Boren expressed concern about overwhelming commissioners with too much
information.
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Interim City Manager Kevin Hogencamp thanked the committee for their invitation and
expressed gratitude for their service. He suggested that the ESC embrace simplicity and
focus on a few key issues to achieve higher quality outcomes and avoid burnout. City
Manager Hogencamp defined a priority as "the most essential work that the commission
can do" or establish as policies for city staff through its strategic plan. He advised that
strong priorities should be urgent, achievable within the city's jurisdiction, and connected
to the city's mission, vision, and values.
Regarding the priority-setting process, City Manager Hogencamp indicated that Linda
Lanier would likely return to facilitate the session as she has done since 2018. He
suggested that the committee could reach out to commissioners with ideas to improve
the priority voting process. He announced that a joint workshop was being planned
tentatively for Monday, March 2, 2026, at 6:00 PM to discuss priorities, with a separate
agenda addressing Chapter 23 revisions on the same night.
Committee members discussed the combined meeting format, with Dan Giovannucci
expressing concern about potential fatigue from combining two significant topics. City
Manager Hogencamp acknowledged this concern and indicated that the order of
discussion was flexible.
Chair Boren supported the March 2nd date as it would allow more time for preparation
and community input. She also asked about the process for commission voting on
priorities, noting that last year they had only chosen one priority from ESC's
recommendations.
Amy Palmer inquired about the marsh pilot project, asking if it was still a defined
priority for the ESC to focus on. City Manager Hogencamp confirmed it was still
important and deferred to Director of Neighborhoods Amanda Askew, who explained
that stabilizing the marsh and preventing erosion remained a priority for the city.
Amy Palmer also thanked City Manager Hogencamp for the First Night event, praising
its success and community representation. City Manager Hogencamp credited Director
Askew, Jordan Leslie, and community volunteers for their efforts.
Dan Giovannucci thanked City Manager Hogencamp for stepping into his role and noted
the strong community support demonstrated at the previous night's commission meeting.
City Manager Hogencamp informed the committee that the city commission would be
hiring an executive search firm to lead the process of selecting a permanent city manager,
and he encouraged committee members to be engaged in that process.
Chair Boren asked City Manager Hogencamp about his perspective on what the city
manager position focuses on most. He explained that key responsibilities include
managing the workforce, maintaining relationships with citizens, carrying out the
strategic plan of the city commission, following city laws, and planning for capital
improvements and emergency preparedness.
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Before departing, City Manager Hogencamp mentioned that he planned to meet with the
newly elected ESC chair to establish a relationship between the city manager's office and
the committee.
4. CHAIR REMARKS
Chair Boren thanked several committee members for their contributions: Amy Palmer for
documenting her discussion with a developer, Christina Kelcourse and Amy Franqui for
handling First Night tabling and writing a report, and Dan Giovannucci for reviewing and
updating the master to-do list. She also thanked members for the book and gift card she had
received.
Chair Boren discussed a matter that came up at a previous meeting regarding double mitigation
for unpermitted tree removal. The Community Development Board (CDB) had twice dealt with
cases where property owners claimed they did not know they needed a permi t to remove trees.
Chair Boren suggested that someone from the Tree Subcommittee should attend the January
CDB meeting to explain the reasoning behind the double mitigation requirement.
A discussion followed about whether the committee was ready to make recommendations on
this matter. Bruce Andrews noted that the double mitigation requirement predated ESC's
formation and questioned whether doubling mitigation was appropriate for large mit igation
amounts. Amy Franqui suggested adding clear warnings about double mitigation on permit
forms.
Dan Giovannucci emphasized the need for education, noting that despite existing efforts,
residents still engaged in improper tree practices like hurricane cuts on palms. He suggested
annual reminders about tree permits and best practices.
The committee decided that Dan Giovannucci would attend the January 20th CDB meeting to
listen to their concerns, and the new chair would add this topic to the January 28th ESC agenda
for further discussion.
Chair Boren announced that Chris Delk had been hired as the new city arborist and would be
staffing the committee's second meetings each month. She noted issues with the end-of-year
survey, which only worked for four members due to technical problems. She passed around a
form for members to contribute to a staff appreciation letter.
5. ESC 2026 OFFICER ELECTIONS AND REVIEW OF DUTIES
A. Review of ESC Duties
Chair Boren presented a document outlining the position descriptions and
responsibilities for ESC officers that she had updated based on previous discussions.
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Amy Palmer noted that the document still included a secretary position, which was not
in the ordinance. After discussion, the committee decided to use the document as a
general guideline rather than taking formal action on it.
MOTION: To use the position description as a guideline.
Motion: Bruce Andrews
Second: Amy Franqui
Motion passed 8 to 0.
B. ESC 2026 Officer Elections and Tree Subcommittee Chair and Member Elections
• ESC Chair
• ESC Vice Chair
• ESC Tree Subcommittee Chair
• ESC Tree Subcommittee Members
Meeting will be turned over to newly elected Chair to run the rest of the meeting
The committee proceeded with elections, beginning with the Chair position.
Amy Palmer expressed willingness to serve but emphasized she would need support and
could not do all the things Chair Boren had done. She suggested dividing responsibilities
among committee members and focusing on fewer items but doing them better. She also
noted that after 2026, several experienced members (Bruce Andrews, Dan Giovannucci,
and Sarah Boren) would be terming out, followed by herself at the end of 2027.
For the Vice Chair position, Amy Franqui and Christina Kelcourse both indicated they
were not interested in the position at this time, having only been on the committee for
about six months. Committee Member Franqui disclosed that she was likely to roll off
the committee at the end of 2026 when her term ended.
Todd Miner explained that his work travel schedule would make it difficult for him to
reliably fulfill the Vice Chair role.
Dan Giovannucci offered to serve as Vice Chair to support continuity and help train
future leaders, with the understanding that he could step aside if someone else's
circumstances changed and they wanted to take on the role.
The committee established that the Tree Subcommittee would consist of Bruce Andrews
(Chair), Todd Miner, and Dan Giovannucci, with Anastasia Houston serving as an
alternate.
Christina Kelcourse mentioned that she knew someone interested in serving on the ESC
who worked as a sustainability officer for a global company. The committee discussed
the application process and advised that the individual should submit an application
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through the city website, possibly include a resume, and be aware that the Board Member
Review Committee was expected to meet in February.
MOTION: To nominate Amy Palmer as ESC Chair.
Motion: Bruce Andrews
Second: Daniele Giovannucci
Motion passed 8 to 0.
MOTION: To nominate Dan Giovannucci as Vice Chair.
Motion: Bruce Andrews
Second: Sarah Boren
Motion passed 8 to 0.
MOTION: To nominate Bruce Andrews as Tree Subcommittee Chair.
Motion: Daniele Giovannucci
Second: Sarah Boren
Motion passed 8 to 0.
6. CONSENT AGENDA
A. Approve minutes of the December 10th, 2025 regular Environmental Stewardship
Committee meeting.
B. Approve minutes of the December 17th, 2025 regular Environmental Stewardship
Committee meeting.
C. Items ESC has consensus to share with Commission in next 30 days
D. Proposed Promotional Content Until February 2026
E. FYI Report: Interesting Information and Resources
F. Member Reports
• ESC First Night Tabling Report
• ESC Member Report - A. Franqui
MOTION: To approve the consent agenda.
Motion: Amy Franqui
Second: Daniele Giovannucci
Motion passed 8 to 0.
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Sarah Boren noted two corrections: 1) In the December 17th minutes, on page 2, paragraph 4,
the comment attributed to Amy Palmer should be attributed to Anastasia Houston; 2) On the
proposed promotional content, the date for the Lorax had been changed to Saturday, February
21st, not the 18th.
Amy Franqui directed attention to the last bullet in the outcomes section of her and Christina
Kelcourse's First Night tabling report, noting its relevance to the Marsh pilot conversation.
Chair Amy Palmer highlighted her write-up of a conversation with a developer on
recommendations for Chapter 23 that would help preserve trees or incentivize developers to
preserve more trees, which she thought might be helpful for the larger conversation with
developers.
7. 90 DAY CALENDAR
A. 90 Day and 2026 ESC Planning Calendar
Sarah Boren reviewed the 90-day calendar and noted several updates: the Lorax film had
been moved to February 21st, the Chapter 23 workshop and priorities workshop were
now planned for March 2nd, and the centennial celebration was scheduled for March
28th.
Director of Neighborhoods Amanda Askew reported that the city currently had few
applicants for the front yard tree planting program and hoped the upcoming Arbor Day
event would generate interest. The committee discussed setting an internal deadline of
February 21st for promoting the spring planting, after which they would shift focus to
promoting the October planting.
Sarah Boren explained the process for requesting items to be placed on the city
commission calendar, suggesting that members email the city manager's assistant with
Amanda on copy, after getting Amanda's approval first.
Sarah Boren also discussed the Marsh Pilot community meetings that had been delayed.
She proposed holding virtual subject matter expert meetings in January and February,
followed by an in-person workshop west of Mayport in March. The goal would be to
present a recommendation for a pilot project to the commission by April for potential
funding in the 2026-27 budget.
MOTION: To approve the 90 Day Calendar.
Motion: Sarah Boren
Second: Bruce Andrews
Motion passed 8 to 0.
B. 2026 ESC Planning Calendar (attached)
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This item was discussed as part of the 90-day calendar discussion.
C. 2025 Organizational Excellence Tracker
This item was included in the consent agenda and no additional discussion occurred.
D. ESC Member To Do List Action Items
This item was included in the consent agenda and no additional discussion occurred.
8. COMMISSION AND/OR STAFF REPORTS
These agenda items were not discussed due to time constraints.
A. Monthly Tree Report
B. Chapter 23 revisions February workshop update (tentatively February 23, 2026 @ 5:00
p.m.
C. March Joint Commission and ESC 2026-2027 Priorities Alignment Workshop (TBD
Feb/March)
D. Developer/Builder Workshop Update
E. ROW plantings update
F. ESC Member Commission Meeting Reports
9. OLD BUSINESS
A. MOTION: COJ Trees for COAB Parks
Director of Neighborhoods Amanda Askew explained the City of Jacksonville did not
approve Staff's planting locations west of Mayport. The staff's recommendation was to
use COJ trees for Atlantic Beach's parks. She noted they had used COJ trees in the parks
previously and there are more opportunities and fewer conflicts with utilities in the p arks.
MOTION: To approve using COJ trees for COAB parks.
Motion: Bruce Andrews
Second: Amy Palmer
Motion passed 8 to 0.
B. MOTION: Tree Trust Fund Action and Spending Plan
The committee discussed a motion to allocate $13,628 from the Tree Trust Fund for a
State of the Canopy Report. Bruce Andrews questioned what specifically the money
would be spent on. Sarah Boren explained that when the committee had developed the
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Tree Fund Action and Spending Plan, they had budgeted this amount for canopy health
and data, including a biannual tree report.
After discussion, the committee agreed to specify that the funds would be used for data,
design, and dissemination of the report. Dan Giovannucci suggested keeping it simple
with language about "professional support to ensure quality data and good messaging to
citizens about the state of their tree canopy."
Sarah Boren explained that if the motion was approved, the new chair would draft a
memo to the city commission requesting that the item be placed on a commission agenda
within the next month. This would allow time to prepare the report for the January 2027
deadline previously established by the former city manager.
MOTION: To approve the motion to allocate $13,628 from the Tree Trust Fund for the State
of the Canopy Report, with funds to be used for data, design, and dissemination.
Motion: Sarah Boren
Second: Bruce Andrews
Motion passed 8 to 0.
C. MOTION: Youth Council
This agenda was not discussed due to time constraints.
D. MOTION: Revised tree list on free tree yard planting application
This agenda was not discussed due to time constraints.
E. Commission Workshops Preparation
• CDB Meeting - January 20, 2026: ESC to make public comment
• Joint Workshop on Priorities and Chapter 23 - March 2nd
F. Preparation for Upcoming events
• January 15, 2026 Arbor Day
• January-February Farmer's Market Tabling to promote yard planting before
March 1, 2026
• January-March Marsh Pilot Meetings
• February 19, 2026 Film Series
• February 21, 2026 Weed Wrangle
G. ESC Centennial Celebration Efforts and Plan
This agenda was not discussed due to time constraints.
10. NEW BUSINESS
These agenda items were not discussed due to time constraints.
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A. MOTION: List of ESC 2025 Accomplishments
This agenda was not discussed due to time constraints.
B. ESC 2025-2026 Priorities Reframe
• ESC 2026 Priorities - Draft 01.2026
• ESC 2025-2026 Priorities Proposed to Commission
• ESC 2025-2026 Proposed Workplan
• Confusion and difference between priorities, workplan, and ongoing work
C. ESC 2026-2027 Priorities Process, Timeline, and Outcome Discussion
D. Green Corridor
This agenda was not discussed due to time constraints.
11. MEMBERS CLOSING REMARKS
This agenda item was not discussed due to time constraints.
12. RECAP OF DECISIONS AND NEXT STEPS
These agenda items were not discussed due to time constraints.
The committee discussed plans for Arbor Day (January 15th), including:
• A heritage tree designation ceremony at a large tree at the entrance to the city on Sherry
in Atlantic, with realty companies Berkshire Hathaway and Petway participating.
• Announcements at Atlantic Beach Elementary and Mayport Middle School, with
Christina Kelcourse coordinating with the schools.
• Creating and distributing a flyer for the free tree yard planting program through the
schools' backpack system rather than attempting to hand them out during drop-off.
• Having sample trees to show the community.
Sarah Boren offered to design a half-page handout with a QR code linking to the application.
Anastasia Houston had already created a flyer and suggested rebranding the "Free Tree
Program" as "COAB Community Canopy" and calling the centennial initiative the "Centennial
Canopy Drive."
Director Askew mentioned she had new ESC shirts for members to wear at events.
A. Discussion of items for January 28, 2026 ESC Meeting Agenda
This agenda item was not discussed due to time constraints.
B. ESC Member Homework
This agenda item was not discussed due to time constraints.
C. Review Tree Trust Fund Action and Spending Plan to discuss at January 28, 2026
meeting and vote on update at February 11, 2026 meeting (agreed to review
quarterly)
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This agenda item was not discussed due to time constraints.
13. ADJOURNMENT
Chair Amy Palmer adjourned the meeting at 9:00 PM.
Attest:
Amanda Askew Amy Palmer, ESC Chair
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MINUTES
Environmental Stewardship Committee (ESC) Meeting
Wednesday, January 28, 2026 - 6:00 PM
City Hall, Commission Chamber
800 Seminole Road, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233
Present: Anastasia Houston, ESC Member
Amy Palmer, ESC Member
Todd Miner, ESC Member
Sarah Boren, ESC Chair
Daniele Giovannucci, ESC Member
Christina Kelcourse, ESC Member
Amy Franqui, ESC Member
Absent: Bruce Andrews, ESC Member
Also Present: Chris Delk, City Arborist
Payton Jamieson, Principal Planner (PP)
1. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL
The meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m.
2. COURTESY OF THE FLOOR (5 MINS.)
A. City Arborist Introduction - Chris Delk
Chair Palmer introduced Chris Delk as the new City Arborist and invited him to share
his background and experience.
Chris Delk began his introduction with enthusiasm, saying, "Unfortunately, I thought I
thought about how I want to go that route. Right? So, I figured I'd come talk to you guys,
this forum and have some fun with you guys." He explained his educational background,
stating he had a bachelor's degree in horticulture from Oregon State University. "Go
bees, love Oregon," he added with pride.
Delk outlined his professional certifications, emphasizing his ISA Board Certified
Master Arborist credential. "It's a really hard test, routinely, like, hours and hours, and
you have those points to even have the option to take the test," he explained. "So, it's
like, 2 percent of people currently hold certifications have it. It's brutal. It's but it's also
fun. It's cool and all these other good aspects."
He detailed his additional certifications, including ISA municipality specialist, which he
explained helps him "work around city stuff, and I understand infrastructure a little more,
and I can play with it. Right? I can understand how to incorporate it more into our
systems and policies and codes." He also mentioned his ISA Tree Risk Assessment
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Qualification (TRAQ) certification, explaining how it allows him to assess trees for risk
rather than simply recommending removal.
Delk shared his passion for "other plant nerdy stuff," including permaculture and native
plant landscaping. He then described his seven years of public sector experience,
beginning with three years in road landscaping where he "was out there in public works,
getting my hands dirty, working on trees along roadways." He followed this with four to
five years working in parks, which he described as involving "community outreaches
where you get to really connect with everybody."
Among his proudest achievements, Delk highlighted securing a grant for a community -
supported arboretum where "every year, the city reaches out to the community and picks
up a tree to put in the arboretum." He expressed particular enthusiasm for edible
landscapes in parks, sharing how he started with blueberries and strawberries in
playgrounds, noting "we had not a single 1 go to waste."
When asked about his current mandates and priorities, Delk responded that permits and
development seemed to be the immediate focus. "That's what the focus seems like since
I came in running," he said, explaining his role in managing mitigation and ensuring
developers comply with tree protection requirements. He mentioned working on tree
inventory through grants, stating, "I can't manage what I don't know."
3. REPORTS AND/OR REQUESTS FROM ESC MEMBERS AND STAFF
Chair Palmer began this section by addressing the length of meetings. She recalled that the
committee had previously decided on two-hour meetings but noted they tended to go over,
especially given the volume of business from combining what used to be three subcommittee
meetings and two meetings per month.
Todd Miner strongly advocated for maintaining the two-hour limit, stating, "I think that we
should focus on getting through that content efficiently and sticking to 2 hours for a lot of
reasons. But through my priority is staff. I don't think that we should allow ourselves to go
beyond the allotted time because it's their evenings as well."
Christina Kelcourse agreed, saying, "I really liked it when we got the notification ahead of time
that it was going to be a long meeting because then we could prepare." She explained the
difficulty of extending meetings without notice due to family commitments.
Daniele Giovannucci concurred, adding, "I think the challenge for us in being efficient is to
really dole out the work and allocate the right amount of time. Not everything can always be
done." The committee reached consensus to maintain the two-hour limit with the possibility of
announcing longer meetings in advance when necessary.
Arbor Day debrief
Christina Kelcourse reported on the Arbor Day activities at the schools. She shared that at
Atlantic Beach Elementary, "the kids that read the script did excellent" and that students in
classrooms were paying attention when the message was broadcast. At Mayport Middle School,
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the script was read over the announcements. She also noted that both school principals offered
to send out city announcements in their newsletters with a week's advance notice.
Daniele Giovannucci briefly addressed the heritage tree celebration component, explaining that
due to various circumstances and timing issues, "our particular Arbor Day in early January, other
than the excellent work that that Christina did, was, you know, a little muted." However, he
noted they had three properties with five trees coming up for heritage designation.
CDB meeting debrief
Daniele Giovannucci reported on his presentation to the Community Development Board. "They
had an extraordinarily long night, much longer than any of them, I think, anticipated, so they
were there pretty late," he began. Despite the late hour, the board members were receptive to his
presentation about the ESC's work and intent to listen to their concerns for incorporation into
chapter 23 revisions.
He summarized the CDB's main concern: "they perceive that people of lower income our
residents of lower income find that some of the penalties when they are combined as a not, we
didn't know you needed a permit, and we took down the trees. So, there's double permit cost and
then double mitigation costs." Giovannucci acknowledged this concern while noting that
ignorance of the law isn't typically an excuse, drawing a comparison to traffic violations. The
discussion emphasized the need for education as a priority to prevent such situations.
Community Input Gathering debrief
Todd Miner expressed concern about the sequencing of community input gathering relative to
the March 2nd priority-setting meeting with the commission. "My goal would be to either have
input gathered to bring to the priority setting meeting or to not force it," he stated. He emphasized
that gathering input after setting priorities would miss an opportunity.
Sarah Boren advocated offering opportunities to hear from the community broadly, saying, "I
think it's personally more important to offer opportunities to hear from them, and then we can
absolutely kind of try to hurt them to however whatever the process we decide."
After extensive discussion, the committee agreed to explore holding a community input session
from 5:00-6:00 p.m. before their February 25th meeting, with Sarah Boren volunteering to
coordinate with staff on logistics and Todd Miner taking the lead on the event itself.
Member survey results
Sarah Boren sent the member survey results that afternoon. Given the late distribution, Chair
Palmer suggested the committee digest the information and discuss it at the next meeting. Boren
explained she had summarized all responses by question and highlighted items scoring below
3.0 for potential organizational improvement focus.
Daniele Giovannucci expressed surprise at some results and suggested the raw data needed to
be "chunked down into something more manageable" for productive discussion. He also noted
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concern that two members hadn't completed the survey despite it being identified as a top
priority.
4. ONGOING - OLD BUSINESS
A. Priorities - 2026 and 2027
Chair Palmer introduced her draft of priorities for 2026 that would blend into 2027. She
explained her approach of creating a one-page document that includes the ESC's two
main charges and lists major initiatives in a simple format for easy commission
comprehension. "I think if we just have it in a simple format that they can just, at a
glance, understand what we're doing," she explained.
Sarah Boren clarified the difference between this working document and what was
previously presented to the commission, explaining that the work plan was requested by
former City Manager Killingsworth after the commission chose their priorities. She
appreciated Palmer's format for elevating the committee's second purpose.
The committee noted that the first four items on the priority list all related to trees, and
Chair Palmer suggested organizing activities under their two main purposes could
provide "a little more bang for our buck."
B. Chapter 23
• Meetings with commissioners
• Preparation for joint workshop
Todd Miner reported on the recent commission meeting where Mayor Ford "started
talking about protecting our oldest trees and essentially, like, put forward an argument
that we should be protecting them through legislation or through code." The city manager
had asked what was preventing the ESC from putting forward a resolution on this topic.
Miner explained he had drafted something, but it hadn't made the current agenda. He
emphasized the need to act quickly, stating, "I think it behooves us to do that as quickly
as possible so that they can so the city so the commission can then act on it too or at least
sort of listen to that and make some decisions."
Anastasia Houston shared that she had been researching other municipalities' codes,
identifying provisions that could strengthen Atlantic Beach's ordinances despite state law
preemption. She mentioned examples such as requiring public notice and community
input for tree removals and allowing cities to require lot redesigns when large trees are
present.
The committee discussed various municipalities with strong tree protection codes, with
Todd Miner suggesting terms like "landmark trees" for trees of certain size and age. He
proposed that trees over 30 inches (roughly 100 years old for live oaks) could require
additional review, potentially by a tree advisory board.
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January 28, 2026
Chris Delk offered his perspective from Oregon, where heritage trees were tied to
property deeds, though he acknowledged this might not work in Florida. He supported
the committee's approach of researching other municipalities' codes.
C. Next Events/Communications - preparation
• Film - The Lorax 2.21.2026
• Handouts to schools – free trees
Discussion of The Lorax film on February 21, 2026, revealed some confusion about
responsibilities. Sarah Boren clarified that Leslie Jordan from the recreation department
was the staff lead, and that the ESC needed to provide panel recommendations for thei r
two films in the series. The film would be shown at 4:00 p.m. at Gulliford Hall in the
Adele Grage Cultural Center.
Amy Franqui provided an update on the Weed Wrangle event, reporting on a successful
planning meeting with Amanda, Andre, and Chris. She detailed the advertising efforts
including city Facebook posts, recreation newsletter inclusion, and ten yard signs placed
around Howell Park. She was also recruiting master gardener volunteers to serve as
educational leads.
Christina Kelcourse gave an enthusiastic update on the Minecraft challenge, announcing
"we got our funding in. So, we're in." She explained the game would feature characters
at the beach lifeguard station who would welcome players before teleporting them to the
Marsh Oaks Community Center for the challenge. The committee members would
appear as characters in the game. She noted the challenge would run from February 9 to
April 1, with opportunities for city representatives to participate in the April live event
as volunteers or judges.
D. MOTION: Youth Council
Chair Palmer explained this motion had been carried over from the last agenda and
originated from a community member's request for a separate environmental committee
for youth, which evolved into incorporating environmental stewardship into the existing
youth council.
MOTION: To approve the motion regarding Environmental Stewardship and Youth Council
integration.
Motion: Sarah Boren
Second: Todd Miner
Anastasia Houston For
Amy Palmer For
Todd Miner (Seconded By) For
Sarah Boren (Moved By) For
Agenda Item #4.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 17 of 91
Environmental Stewardship Committee (ESC)
January 28, 2026
Daniele Giovannucci For
Christina Kelcourse For
Amy Franqui For
Motion passed 7 to 0.
E. MOTION: Revised tree list on free tree yard planting application
https://coab.us/DocumentCenter/View/13480/Atlantic-Beach-Free-Tree-Planting-
Program-Application?bidId=
This motion, also carried over from the previous meeting, addressed updating the species
list on the tree planting application. Discussion clarified that the list should specify
"preferred native species" in the title rather than labeling each species as native.
Daniele Giovannucci acknowledged that Anastasia Houston's new Community Canopy
Program would eventually replace this application but suggested updating the current
form in the meantime.
MOTION: To "take the current application, add the word native between preferred and species
in the title of the species, make the selections more generic for both oak and elm as they are
currently for holly, maple, and pine and cedar, and that we intend that this be updated and or
improved or supplanted by the hundred year community canopy work that Anastasia is has
pulled together."
Motion: Daniele Giovannucci
Second: Todd Miner
Anastasia Houston For
Amy Palmer For
Todd Miner (Seconded By) For
Sarah Boren For
Daniele Giovannucci (Moved By) For
Christina Kelcourse For
Amy Franqui For
Motion passed 7 to 0.
5. NEW BUSINESS
A. 1798 Selva Marina Drive TREE26-0004 (Dee Reiter)
Ms. Dee Reiter, resident at 1798 Selva Marina Drive, made a public comment indicating
she had applied for heritage tree designation last spring and wanted to ensure her
application was moving forward. She expressed concern about trees being removed in
her neighborhood and her desire to be a good steward of her tree for the community.
Agenda Item #4.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 18 of 91
Environmental Stewardship Committee (ESC)
January 28, 2026
Chris Delk explained that after the committee's approval, the applications would go to
the City Commission, likely at their February 9th meeting. He encouraged applicants to
attend the Commission meeting to support their applications.
Amy Franqui suggested organizing a photo opportunity when the trees are officially
designated, particularly for trees on private property, to help publicize the program.
B. 375 Atlantic Boulevard TREE26-0005 (Petway)
C. 395 Poinsettia Court TREE26-0006 (Xavier and Elizabeth Rozas)
MOTION: To pass all 3 Heritage Tree Applications covering 5 trees.
Motion: Sarah Boren
Second: Daniele Giovannucci
Chris Delk confirmed he would notify the applicants and encourage them to attend the February
9 commission meeting to support their applications. He mentioned existing plaques for heritage
trees and that owners could name their trees.
Daniele Giovannucci noted that one of the applications was from realtors who wanted to use it
as an educational opportunity, and another was from a UNF professor who could potentially be
recruited to the ESC.
Anastasia Houston For
Amy Palmer For
Todd Miner For
Sarah Boren (Moved By) For
Daniele Giovannucci (Seconded By) For
Christina Kelcourse For
Amy Franqui For
Motion passed 7 to 0.
6. RECAP OF DECISIONS, ACTION ITEMS AND NEXT STEPS
Chair Palmer discussed the motion tracker process, explaining she was working with Kevin and
would be meeting with Amanda to establish a more effective system for tracking motions
through to commission action. "They will go to Kevin. They will go to commission, and then
we will find out what happens with them," she explained.
Sarah Boren had sent out a comprehensive list of past motions that afternoon to help track their
status.
Agenda Item #4.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 19 of 91
Environmental Stewardship Committee (ESC)
January 28, 2026
The committee confirmed their next meeting would be February 11, with an agenda deadline of
January 29 due to the city's technology changeover the following week. They would explore
adding a 5:00-6:00 p.m. community input session before the February 25 meeting.
Chair Palmer thanked everyone for a productive meeting despite going five minutes over the
intended end time.
7. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 8:05 p.m.
Attest:
Amanda Askew Amy Palmer, ESC Chair
Agenda Item #4.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 20 of 91
Environmental Stewardship Committee’s Charge in Municipal Code Chapter 23
23-52. -Environmental stewardship committee–Intent
The maritime forest in Atlantic Beach is core to the city's identity as a small coastal village. The tree canopy creates beauty,
provides a home for wildlife, functions as an element of the water management system and enhances property values. It is in the
best interest for this committee to be the stewards of the tree canopy through advocacy, assessment, maintenance, planting and
preservation of this natural resource. The city parks provide open spaces for recreation, exercise, wildlife habitat, relaxation and
encounters with the natural world. This committee intends to support the community to provide a variety of park spaces that are well
maintained, accessible and secure. This committee shall take the lead and set high community standards in the beautification and
maintenance of public spaces located within the city. The Atlantic Ocean, the St. Johns River and the Intracoastal Waterway have a
great deal of influence on the micro climate, drainage issues and the diverse vegetation and wildlife that thrive within the city. The
care and health of the coast and marsh must be paramount in every recommendation made by this committee about the use of our
land, water system and tree canopy.
(PURPOSE 1) To study and make recommendations to the
city commission and city staff with respect to the city's:
a. Maritime forest;
b. Parks and open spaces;
c. Beautification of public and private spaces
d. Environmental stewardship.
(PURPOSE 2) To act as a motivating and coordinating
body to encourage joint public and private participation
in promoting these purposes.
(SCOPE) Environmental stewardship committee—Scope of activities.The environmental stewardship committee shall provide
guidance and support to the city commission and city manager and, upon request by the city commission or city manager, shall
provide written recommendations, in the following area…Agenda Item #5.A.11 Feb 2026Page 21 of 91
This focus area takes an ecosystem
services approach and recognizes the
wide range of benefits natural systems
provide, such as clean water and air,
flood control, habitat, food, and natural
regulating processes affecting climate
such as localized cooling. Ecosystem
services also extend to cultural benefits
like aesthetic value, human health, and
recreation. It is up to our community to
demonstrate leadership by making
natural resource protection and green
space and implementing strategies that
improve the quality of natural resource
areas and human health a priority with
concrete goals and milestones to show
progress.
Ordinance states ESC provide guidance and support on:
a.STRENGTHEN: Clarifying and strengthening the city's
processes and all tree and landscape related city codes
and ordinances;
b.MONITOR: Monitoring the appropriate administration
and enforcement of the city's ordinances;
c.TRANSPARENT: Promoting transparency through
online access to relevant information;
d.EDUCATE: Developing and maintaining environmental
education and outreach programs about the maritime
forest and relevant codes;
e.PLANT WELL: Promoting appropriate planting and care
of trees on private property to owners, developers,
builders, and tree/landscape service contractors;
f.PLAN: Developing and maintaining a long-term tree
plan that includes an assessment of the tree canopy,
projecting future needs, and developing a calendar and
budget for tree planting in parks, public spaces and
along streets and rights-of-way;
g.ADVOCATE: Promoting tree canopy advocacy including
upholding the city's status as a bona fide Tree City USA
h.REVIEW: Developing a process for systematic, review
of the city's enforcement of the existing tree codes,
including the long-term health of trees planted for
mitigation; and
i.REPORT: Developing and maintaining a process for
citizens to communicate possible violations to the city.
PROPOSED 2025 Priorities & Actions
PROPOSED ESC DIRECT WORK WITH STAFF SUPERVISION –Does ESC have the Commission’s approval to focus on and
try to achieve the following?
•Plant More --Continue giveaways, promote tree adoptions more, and work with city staff regarding street, park and city
construction projects. Activate a successful tree campaign with the goal of 200 trees planted in 2025.
•Research, Plan & Report –Research Best Practices & Plan: Develop,propose, and, if approved by Commission,
implement a long-term tree plan that includes projecting future needs such as replacement for aging & dying trees,
developing a calendar, list of locations, and estimated cost for tree planting in parks, public spaces and along streets and
rights-of-way Report: a) Create a robust quarterly tree report that includes tree fund expenses and income, number of
permits, number of arborist letters, number of enforcement incidents, number of mitigated trees planted, etc. b) Develop
and maintain ongoing reporting mechanisms that share with the AB community the health and status of tree canopy and
how residents can engage and/or communicate possible violations and/or solutions to the city.
PROPOSE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR STAFF & COMMISSION –Does the Commission want ESC to make
recommendations on the following items?
•Incentivize & Preserve Mature Trees a) Commission to direct staff to support ESC’s research and proposals on incentive
programs to encourage developers and homeowners to save trees versus removing them and bring final recommendations
to Commission b) Create, propose, and, if approved by Commission, implement a pilot Heritage Tree Grant program to be
reevaluated annually to be funded by the Tree Mitigation Fund.
•Dutton Island Trees –Research cause for trees dying, possible solutions. and make recommendations
ON GOING ITEMS –Does the Commission give its approval for ESC to continue working on the following ongoing needs?
•Educate/lobby/outreach regarding tree canopy preservation and benefits of trees
•Update/refine Chapter 23 annually (Q1 –ideally before budget season)
•Learn best practices from other cities/counties in Florida and beyond
•Partner with universities, nonprofits, and subject matter experts where appropriate and possible
•Maintain “Tree City USA” status
MARITIME FOREST COMMUNITY ACTION PLAN TARGET: Increase and maintain healthy, diverse (species, age, location) tree
canopy to 40% and strive for a zero net loss of canopy by 2050
Agenda Item #5.A.11 Feb 2026Page 22 of 91
This focus area takes an ecosystem
services approach and recognizes the
wide range of benefits natural systems
provide, such as clean water and air,
flood control, habitat, food, and natural
regulating processes affecting climate
such as localized cooling. Ecosystem
services also extend to cultural benefits
like aesthetic value, human health, and
recreation. It is up to our community to
demonstrate leadership by making
natural resource protection and green
space and implementing strategies that
improve the quality of natural resource
areas and human health a priority with
concrete goals and milestones to show
progress.
Ordinance states ESC provide guidance and support on:
a.PLAN: Developing and maintaining a long-range plan to
protect, improve and beautify park spaces;
b.ACCESS: Improving access to and amenities for parks
including disability accommodations, bike paths,
parking, signage and other user-friendly features;
c.EXPAND: Expanding the city's inventory of parks and
conservation land through acquisition or other means;
and
d.EDUCATE: Maintaining a web-based, publicly
accessible inventory of parks including their history,
archeological value, rules of use, deed restrictions and
conservation easements.
PARKS & OPEN SPACES
PROPOSED 2025 Priorities & Actions
PROPOSED ESC DIRECT WORK WITH STAFF SUPERVISION –Does ESC have the Commission’s approval to
focus on and try to achieve the following?
•Complete approved mini edible orchard pilot and fund maintenance from Tree Mitigation Fund pending Public
Works irrigation water decision and final donated design.
•Research best practices and solutions for marsh and wetland protection. Work towards restoring and
maintaining critical wetlands and marshes.
•Reduce invasives --Continue to reduce invasive species in our dunes, wetlands, marshes, and parks
•Stewards of the Park Program --Coordinate a “Stewards/Friends of the Park” program
PROPOSE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR STAFF & COMMISSION –Does the Commission want ESC to make
recommendations on the following items?
•100 W 1st Street Community Center –Propose recommendations to renovate to green and resilient standards
and serve as a model demonstration building that educates the public about what is possible and inspires other
AB buildings to do the same.
•Parks Master Plan –Propose recommendations to staff and Commission regarding environmental stewardship
of parks, open spaces, and facilities.
•Improve signage –Propose recommendations for improved signage in our parks
•Eliminate cat problem –Research best practices and propose recommendations to address major cat problem
on Dutton Island which is killing many birds and other natural wildlife
ON GOING ITEMS –Does Commission give its approval for ESC to continue working on the following ongoing needs?
•Increase access to and quantity of green spaces
•Advise on long term health of parks –Work to keep passive parks passive and multi-purpose parks healthy.
•Enhance connectivity and walkability between parks and open spaces
•Educate/outreach about the benefits of parks and open spaces
TARGETS: 1) Ensure 95% residential addresses are located within a ½ mile of an open space. 2) Develop and enhance connectivity and
walkability between the majority of parks and open spaces within city to at least 90%. 3) Provide publicly accessible green space area and
maintain protected natural resource acreage at 15% or more of total city area. Agenda Item #5.A.11 Feb 2026Page 23 of 91
This focus area takes an ecosystem
services approach and recognizes the
wide range of benefits natural systems
provide, such as clean water and air,
flood control, habitat, food, and natural
regulating processes affecting climate
such as localized cooling. Ecosystem
services also extend to cultural benefits
like aesthetic value, human health, and
recreation. It is up to our community to
demonstrate leadership by making
natural resource protection and green
space and implementing strategies that
improve the quality of natural resource
areas and human health a priority with
concrete goals and milestones to show
progress.
Ordinance states ESC provide guidance and support on:
a.ENHANCE: Enhancing public spaces, including public
rights-of-way, roadsides, city buildings, beach accesses
and other publicly held properties with art, carefully
maintained landscape design and plantings;
b.INCENT & ADVOCATE: Incentivizing and advocating
for beautification of private and commercial spaces;.
c.REDUCE BLIGHT: Reducing the number and
appearance of degraded or blighted properties; and.
d.COHESIVE LOOK: Developing a design
theme/community branding for signage, bus shelters,
lighting and other elements of the built environment.
BEAUTIFICATION
PROPOSED 2025 Priorities & Actions
PROPOSED ESC DIRECT WORK WITH STAFF SUPERVISION –Does ESC have the Commission’s approval to
focus on and try to achieve the following?
•Update Seminole & Atlantic Entrance –Work with volunteer landscape expert working closely with staff and
propose estimated cost of tree and landscaping replacement from Tree Mitigation Fund
•Mayport Road Construction –Work with staff and FDOT to incorporate trees, landscaping, and energy efficient
lighting lining Mayport Road and East Coast Greenway.
•Enhance public spaces --Assess opportunities in public rights of way, roadsides, City buildings, beach accesses
and other publicly held properties with art, carefully maintained landscape design and plantings to attract
pollinators and birds using native, Florida-friendly plants, and city plant palette, water conservation, and limited
chemicals.
•Bee City Designation –Work with staff to seek Bee City USA designation
PROPOSE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR STAFF & COMMISSION –Does the Commission want ESC to make
recommendations on the following items?
•Flyover & Mayport Road AB Entrances & Major Intersections –Understand staff constraints and goals and
propose recommendations for beautification
•Reduce blight –Review recommendations on how to reduce the number and appearance of degraded/blighted
properties, parks, and open spaces
•Learning gardens –Propose recommendations for learning gardens throughout the city
ON GOING ITEMS –Does Commission give its approval for ESC to continue working on the following ongoing needs?
•Input from Commission on their priorities and ideas for beautification
•Input from community regarding continuous improvement on beautification
•Educate/outreach about benefits of low impact beautification
COMMUNITY ACTION PLAN TARGET: Reduce use of harmful chemicals and biocides by 90%by 2050
Agenda Item #5.A.11 Feb 2026Page 24 of 91
This focus area takes an ecosystem
services approach and recognizes the
wide range of benefits natural systems
provide, such as clean water and air,
flood control, habitat, food, and natural
regulating processes affecting climate
such as localized cooling. Ecosystem
services also extend to cultural benefits
like aesthetic value, human health, and
recreation. It is up to our community to
demonstrate leadership by making
natural resource protection and green
space and implementing strategies that
improve the quality of natural resource
areas and human health a priority with
concrete goals and milestones to show
progress.
Ordinance states ESC provide guidance and support on:
a.BEST PRACTICES: Utilizing best practices, including a
science-based approach, when making any decision
about development and its impact on our environment;
b.PROTECT: Protecting the beach, dunes, marshlands
and wetlands as critical defenses in hurricane, erosion
and flooding conditions;
c.COMMUNICATE: Communicating the dynamics of tidal
drainage and floodplain with the goal of preserving the
city's flood management system;
d.REVIEW & ENSURE: Reviewing the city's
environmental codes and ensuring enforcement of rules
including, but not limited to, dumping, septic tanks and
commercial pollution; and
e.MAINTAIN: Reviewing, updating and maintaining the
Marsh Master Plan for adherence to current research
about sea level change and wetlands preservation.
ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP
PROPOSED 2025 Priorities & Actions
PROPOSED ESC DIRECT WORK WITH STAFF SUPERVISION–Does ESC have the Commission’s approval to focus
on and try to achieve the following?
•Commission 2024-2025 Priorities --Help staff achieve their Commission priorities: a) identify marsh priority
projects consistent with the Adaptation Plan update by August 2025; b) identify sustainability goals for City projects,
City buildings, and City land; c) develop an implementation schedule for Connectivity Plan and CIP adjustments; and
d) 15% residential water conservation goal per the N FL Water Supply Plan
•Reduce use of toxic biocides through education and case studies.
PROPOSE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR STAFF & COMMISSION–Does the Commission want ESC to make
recommendations on the following items?
•LEED Recertification & Sustainability and Resilience Community Action Plan (S&RCAP)–Seek staff and
Commission alignment around LEED recertification and an updated SRCAP that is incorporated into staff workplans.
•Voluntary Resilient & Green Building Ordinance –Propose recommendations for a voluntary resilient & green
building ordinance that will help property owners protect their asset(s), save money and resources, and avoid need
for rebuilding.
•Flooding & Stormwater Management Plan –Research best practices, work with staff and consultant(s), and make
recommendations to ensure AB has sufficient stormwater storage and mitigates inland flooding during extreme
weather into future.
•Local Green Business Program –Partner with a local nonprofit on voluntary green business program to save
money, resources, reduce waste, energy, and water, increase education and awareness, and build community.
•Reclaimed Water –Propose recommendations about reclaimed water opportunities in our community.
•Floating Solar –Review opportunities for a pilot floating solar array in a retention pond.
ON GOING ITEMS –Does Commission give its approval for ESC to continue working on the following ongoing needs?
•Continue to work on LEED certification and S&RCAP implementation where possible
COMMUNITY ACTION PLAN TARGET: Achieve LEED recertification every 5 years with improved score
Agenda Item #5.A.11 Feb 2026Page 25 of 91
This focus area takes an ecosystem
services approach and recognizes the
wide range of benefits natural systems
provide, such as clean water and air,
flood control, habitat, food, and natural
regulating processes affecting climate
such as localized cooling. Ecosystem
services also extend to cultural benefits
like aesthetic value, human health, and
recreation. It is up to our community to
demonstrate leadership by making
natural resource protection and green
space and implementing strategies that
improve the quality of natural resource
areas and human health a priority with
concrete goals and milestones to show
progress.
PROPOSED 2025 EVENTS Does ESC have the Commission’s
approval to focus on and try to achieve the following events?
•Educational Speaker Series (Monthly)
•Community Service Days (Quarterly) –Edible Orchard
Planting; Howell Park Planting; Brazilian Pepper Tree
Tides View; Weed Wrangle Air Potato Howell Park; Clean
Up Partnerships
•Film Series (Quarterly / Bi-annually)
•Arbor Day Tree Giveaway (January 12)
•Arbor Day (January 17)
•Awards (March)
•Earth Day (April 27 Farmers Market) –Monarch Pledge,
Bee City, and Orchard Opening
•October Tree Giveaway (October)
•Annual Community Input Meeting re: ESC Priorities for
the Next Year (Q4; Oct/Nov)
COORDINATING & MOTIVATING BODY TO ENCOURAGE JOINT PUBLIC AND PRIVATE PARTICIPATION
OTHER EDUCATION, OUTREACH & AWARENESS EFFORTS --Does ESC have the Commission’s approval to
focus on and try to achieve the following efforts?
•Regular “Did You Know” social media postings
•Content for City newsletter
•Content for City website
•AB GreenCorps Volunteers
•Small hyperlocal conversations/chats in each district
•Tabling at other events and farmers' market
•Presentations at partner events like Beaches Watch, Fletcher High School to build awareness and trust
Agenda Item #5.A.11 Feb 2026Page 26 of 91
From Anastasia Houston:
Hi Chris,
A quick comment on my high-level read of this permit application and site plan. This
seems to illustrate the perfect example of a homeowner removing valuable trees within
the set back area that can’t be built upon anyway and without any impedance to the
structure as outlined.
If we had an overlay that prevented removal within setbacks, that would be one way to
save existing trees. Another layer could be no removal when the trees (any protected
tree) don’t pose an immediate threat and also are not impeding on the design of the
home.
Even without these protections in place, COAB could question and push back on the
request in these circumstances to hopefully get a second thought from the builder;
which I know we do sometimes but I’m not privy to just how strongly.
More to come with research from other communities with strong tree protections we can
benchmark.
Anastasia
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 27 of 91
Municipal Tree Protection:
Comparative Analysis of Leading Programs
Focus: Communities Protecting Centenarian Trees (100+ Years Old)
Executive Summary
This report analyzes tree protection ordinances in Florida municipalities with a specific
focus on how communities protect mature, centenarian trees (100+ years old). Based
on comprehensive research, the following municipalities demonstrate exemplary
approaches to protecting irreplaceable tree resources:
•Orange County leads with 5x replacement ratios for Heritage trees and
$21,200+ removal costs for large Live Oaks
•St. Petersburg's Grand Tree ordinance (30"+ DBH) protects trees 100-120+
years old with penalties up to $6,855
•Coral Gables uses sophisticated canopy-based replacement calculations,
ensuring trees are replaced by equivalent ecosystem value rather than
simple tree counts
•For Live Oak trees (growth factor 4.0), a 30" DBH threshold captures trees
approximately 120 years old
The analysis reveals that the most effective ordinances share three critical elements: (1)
multi-tiered protection thresholds starting at 8" DBH with enhanced protection at 18-20"
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 28 of 91
and maximum protection at 30"+, (2) exponential replacement requirements that make
removing large trees economically prohibitive, and (3) robust enforcement with
dedicated arborist staff and substantial penalties.
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 29 of 91
Section 1: Understanding the Comparison Framework
To create meaningful comparisons between municipal tree codes, this analysis
evaluates eight critical categories. Each category reflects a key aspect of how
communities protect their urban forest, with particular attention to provisions that
preserve centenarian trees.
The Eight Evaluation Categories
1. Scope & Coverage (15 points)
Examines which properties and land uses are regulated. Strong ordinances apply to all
properties including single-family residential, while weaker codes exempt large portions
of the urban forest. Florida Statute 163.045 (2019) limits local regulation of single-family
residential trees when a certified arborist deems them hazardous, forcing municipalities
to be creative in maintaining protections.
2. Protected Tree Thresholds (30 points) ★ CRITICAL
The most important category for protecting older trees. Measures the diameter at breast
height (DBH) thresholds that trigger permit requirements and enhanced protections.
Exemplary programs use 3-4 tiers:
• Basic protection: 8" DBH (captures trees 30-40 years old)
• Enhanced protection: 18-20" DBH (captures trees 70-80 years old)
• Specimen protection: 24" DBH (captures trees 90-100 years old)
• Grand/Heritage: 30-34" DBH (captures trees 100-130+ years old)
3. Replacement Requirements (30 points) ★ CRITICAL
Determines what must be planted when trees are removed. Leading programs don't
simply require planting one new tree for each removed—they use escalating
replacement ratios that reflect the ecological and community value of mature trees. A
100-year-old tree cannot be replaced within a human lifetime, so strong codes require
3x-5x mitigation for large specimens.
4. Financial Mechanisms (20 points)
Evaluates Tree Trust Funds and payment-in-lieu options. Strong programs maintain
dedicated funds with mandatory spending requirements (e.g., 80% must be spent on
tree planting annually) and allow applicants to pay for off-site mitigation when on-site
planting isn't feasible.
5. Enforcement & Penalties (35 points) ★ CRITICAL
Without meaningful penalties, tree protection is merely advisory. Leading programs
impose substantial fines, often calculated per inch of diameter, making illegal removal of
centenarian trees economically devastating. St. Petersburg's $6,855 penalty for a 30"
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 30 of 91
Grand Tree and Orange County's $21,200 removal cost for Heritage Live Oaks
exemplify effective deterrents.
6. Administrative Process (25 points)
Assesses permit review procedures, arborist involvement, and appeal mechanisms.
Programs with dedicated Tree Boards or Tree Advisory Commissions provide
specialized expertise and community accountability, particularly for controversial
removals of heritage trees.
7. Development Standards (20 points)
Examines protections during construction and development. Strong codes require tree
surveys, protective fencing around root zones, certified arborist monitoring, and may
offer density bonuses or reduced requirements as incentives to preserve significant
trees.
8. Program Quality Indicators (25 points)
Considers broader programmatic elements: Tree City USA designation, Urban Forest
Master Plans, stated canopy goals, public planting programs, and educational
resources. These indicate long-term commitment to urban forestry beyond just
regulation.
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
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Section 2: Leading Municipalities—Detailed Analysis
This section profiles the municipalities with the strongest tree protection programs in
Florida, organized by overall program strength. Each profile examines how the
community protects centenarian trees and implements best practices across all eight
evaluation categories.
Tier 1: Exemplary Programs (★★★★★)
Orange County, Florida
Overall Rating: ★★★★★ Exemplary (Estimated 290/330 points)
Why It's Exemplary for Centenarian Trees:
Orange County adopted comprehensive revisions in 2023 after extensive community
engagement, creating one of Florida's most sophisticated tree protection programs. The
ordinance explicitly recognizes that Heritage and Specimen trees "have been growing
for decades—sometimes even centuries—they're not easily replaced."
Protected Tree Thresholds:
• Protected trees: Not explicitly stated for all species
• Specimen trees: Winged Elm, Turkey Oak, Longleaf Pine, Sweetgum, Bald
Cypress (size-based)
• Heritage trees: Live Oak, Southern Magnolia (size-based)
• 3-tier protection system
100-Year Tree Protection:
• Heritage Live Oak designation specifically protects centenarian trees
• Removal cost begins at $21,200 for Heritage Live Oak
• Based on Live Oak growth factor of 4.0, these are 100+ year trees
Replacement Requirements:
• Specimen trees: 3x replacement ratio (caliper inches)
• Heritage trees: 5x replacement ratio (caliper inches)
• Example: 30" Heritage tree requires 150" of replacement trees
• Among highest replacement requirements in Florida
Enforcement:
• Dedicated arborist staff doubled from 3 to 6 (2023)
• Substantial penalties for violations
• Active monitoring and enforcement program
Key Strengths:
• Clear distinction between Specimen (3x) and Heritage (5x) categories
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
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• Economic disincentives make large tree removal prohibitive
• Recent update shows ongoing commitment to improvement
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 33 of 91
St. Petersburg, Florida
Overall Rating: ★★★★★ Exemplary (Estimated 285/330 points)
Why It's Exemplary for Centenarian Trees:
St. Petersburg has maintained Tree City USA designation for 35+ consecutive years
and established a 30% tree canopy goal by 2030. The Grand Tree ordinance creates
exceptional protections for the city's oldest specimens.
Protected Tree Thresholds:
• Protected trees: 4"+ DBH (shade trees), 8"+ DBH (understory)
• Grand Trees: 30"+ DBH (except Laurel Oaks)
• Signature Trees: Special recognition for non-natives (Banyan, Kapok 30"+;
Jacaranda, Royal Poinciana 8"+)
• 4-tier system including unique Signature category
100-Year Tree Protection:
• 30" Grand Tree threshold = approximately 120 years for Live Oak (growth factor
4.0)
• Grand Trees "must be preserved" - strongest language
• Total penalty for 30" Grand Tree: $6,855
Replacement Requirements:
• Payment in lieu for on-site planting: calculated per tree
• After-the-fact permit: $1,000
• Payment in lieu: $5,355 for 30" tree
• Fine: $500
• Comprehensive cost calculation deters violations
Program Quality:
• Tree City USA: 35+ consecutive years
• 30% tree canopy goal by 2030
• 2022 city-wide tree canopy analysis completed
• Community Canopy Initiative: 1,000 trees by 2025
• On-staff ISA Certified Arborist available to residents
Key Strengths:
• "Signature Trees" recognize culturally important non-natives
• Long-term commitment demonstrated by 35+ years Tree City USA
• Clear preservation mandate for Grand Trees
• Comprehensive penalty structure
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 34 of 91
Coral Gables, Florida
Overall Rating: ★★★★★ Exemplary (Estimated 280/330 points)
Why It's Exemplary for Centenarian Trees:
Coral Gables is frequently cited as having one of Florida's strongest tree ordinances.
The city employs a full-time city forester and uses sophisticated canopy-area
calculations rather than simple tree counts, ensuring ecological equivalency in
replacement.
Protected Tree Thresholds:
• Protected trees: 4.5"+ DBH or 12'+ height
• Specimen trees: 18"+ DBH
• Enhanced specimen: 24"+ DBH (double mitigation)
• Lowest basic threshold (4.5") provides broadest coverage
100-Year Tree Protection:
• 18" specimen = ~72 years (Live Oak, growth factor 4.0)
• 24" specimen = ~96 years (Live Oak, growth factor 4.0)
• Double mitigation at 24" recognizes near-centenarian status
• Certified arborist report required for 18"+ trees
Replacement Requirements:
• Canopy-based replacement calculation (not simple tree count)
• Replacement based on canopy loss area
• Double mitigation for 24"+ DBH trees
• If site cannot accommodate replacement: Tree Trust Fund contribution
• Most sophisticated replacement methodology reviewed
Administrative Process:
• Full-time city forester on staff
• Tree Preservation Agency reviews all applications
• Comprehensive tree survey requirements
• 10-day application review timeline
• Tree Trust Fund for off-site mitigation
Key Strengths:
• Canopy area replacement > tree count ensures ecological equivalency
• Very low 4.5" threshold protects young trees
• Professional staff resources (full-time forester)
• Requires permits for virtually all tree work
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 35 of 91
Tier 2: Strong Programs (★★★★)
Alachua County, Florida
Overall Rating: ★★★★ Strong (Estimated 265/330 points)
Protected Tree Thresholds:
• Protected trees: 8"+ DBH (all land uses)
• Heritage trees: Native trees 20"+ DBH (30"+ for laurel/water oak)
• Champion trees: Largest specimens of species
• Strong emphasis on native species protection
100-Year Tree Protection:
• 20" Heritage native tree = 80-100 years (most species)
• 30" Heritage oak = 120 years (Live Oak, growth factor 4.0)
• Champion trees require Tree Advisory Board approval
• Complete prohibition on removal without prior approval
Replacement Requirements:
• Mitigation required for all regulated trees removed
• High-quality shade species required
• Preference for on-site mitigation
• Tree mitigation fund for off-site when demonstrated infeasible
• $90 permit fee (covers multiple trees on same permit)
Administrative Process:
• Tree Advisory Board reviews champion tree removals
• Only Tree Advisory Board may approve champion tree removal
• Development Review Staff processes applications
• Natural emergencies: permits may be waived temporarily
Key Strengths:
• Strong native tree focus (20" Heritage threshold)
• Champion tree designation with Board oversight
• Applies to all land uses and zoning districts
• Tree Advisory Board adds accountability for significant removals
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 36 of 91
Gainesville, Florida
Overall Rating: ★★★★ Strong (Estimated 260/330 points)
Protected Tree Thresholds:
• Regulated trees vary by size and species
• Champion trees: special designation
• Heritage trees: protected designation
• Single-family exemption except champion/heritage trees
100-Year Tree Protection:
• Champion and heritage tree categories protect oldest specimens
• Only Tree Advisory Board may approve champion tree removal
• Single-family homes still require permits for champion/heritage
Replacement Requirements:
• Mitigation trees required for tree removal
• High-quality shade species from Gainesville tree list
• Installation of new trees may count toward mitigation except for high-quality
species removed
• Tree mitigation fund for off-site planting when no space available
Key Strengths:
• Champion tree protections survive single-family exemption
• Tree Advisory Board provides specialized review
• Tree mitigation fund allows flexibility
• Complements Alachua County ordinance in unincorporated areas
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 37 of 91
Section 3: Category-by-Category Implementation
This section examines how leading municipalities implement each of the eight
evaluation categories, highlighting innovative approaches and best practices.
How Communities Set Protection Thresholds
The size threshold at which trees receive protection is the single most important factor
in determining which trees are covered by an ordinance. Leading municipalities
recognize that tiered systems provide flexibility while ensuring comprehensive
coverage.
Municipality Basic Enhanced Specimen Heritage/Grand
Coral Gables 4.5"—18" / 24"—
St. Petersburg 4" / 8"——30"
Orange County ——Varies Varies
Alachua County 8"20" / 30"—Champion
Gainesville Varies ——Champion/Heritage
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 38 of 91
Section 4: Best Practices for 100+ Year Old Trees
Based on analysis of leading programs, the following practices most effectively protect
centenarian trees:
1. Use Science-Based Size Thresholds
For Atlantic Beach and Northeast Florida communities, protecting Live Oak trees
(growth factor 4.0) at specific thresholds:
• 30" DBH = ~120 years old (centenarian status confirmed)
• 24" DBH = ~96 years old (approaching centenarian)
• 20" DBH = ~80 years old (mature adult phase)
Recommendation: Adopt a 30"+ DBH threshold for "Grand" or "Heritage" designation
with preservation preference and 5x replacement requirements.
2. Implement Exponential Replacement Ratios
Linear replacement (1:1 regardless of size) fails to account for the irreplaceable nature
of centenarian trees. Leading programs use escalating ratios:
• Basic trees: 1:1 caliper inch replacement
• Specimen trees (18-24"): 2-3x replacement
• Heritage trees (24-30"): 3-4x replacement
• Grand trees (30"+): 5x replacement (Orange County model)
Example: A 30" Heritage Live Oak requiring 5x replacement would mandate 150" of
replacement trees. Using 2" caliper replacements, this equals 75 new trees—a powerful
deterrent that reflects true community loss.
3. Create Economic Disincentives
Without meaningful financial penalties, tree protection becomes optional. Leading
programs make illegal removal economically devastating:
• St. Petersburg: $6,855 total for 30" Grand Tree
• Orange County: $21,200+ for Heritage Live Oak removal
• Per-inch penalties that scale with tree size
Recommendation: Use formula-based penalties ($150-200 per inch of DBH) plus
replacement costs, ensuring minimum $5,000 penalty for Heritage/Grand trees.
4. Require Specialized Review for Heritage Trees
Centenarian trees warrant elevated review beyond standard administrative approval:
• Tree Advisory Board or Commission review
• Public notice and hearing opportunity
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 39 of 91
• Certified arborist assessment required
• Presumption of denial unless clear justification provided
5. Maintain Dedicated Staff Resources
Effective tree protection requires professional expertise:
• Full-time city forester or urban forestry staff (Coral Gables model)
• Multiple arborists on staff (Orange County doubled from 3 to 6)
• Regular site inspections and monitoring
• Active enforcement program with dedicated resources
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 40 of 91
Section 5: Recommendations for Atlantic Beach
Based on comprehensive analysis of leading Florida programs and consideration of
Atlantic Beach's coastal environment and native tree species, the following
recommendations would create an exemplary tree protection program:
Recommended Tiered Protection System
Category Threshold Approx. Age Replacement Key Species
Protected 8" DBH 32+ years 1:1 All natives
Specimen 20" DBH 80+ years 3:1 Live Oak,
Magnolia
Heritage 30" DBH 120+ years 5:1 Live Oak,
Magnolia,
Sweetgum
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 41 of 91
Implementation Priorities
Priority 1: Establish Heritage Tree Program (Years 1-2)
• Adopt 30"+ DBH Heritage Tree threshold for Live Oak, Southern Magnolia,
Sweetgum
• Implement 5x replacement requirement
• Create Tree Trust Fund with 80% spending mandate
• Establish formula-based penalties ($150+ per inch DBH)
• Hire or designate urban forestry coordinator
Priority 2: Broaden Protection Coverage (Years 2-3)
• Add Specimen Tree category (20-24" DBH) with 3x replacement
• Extend basic protection to 8" DBH trees
• Develop tree survey requirements for development
• Create Tree Advisory Board or Commission
Priority 3: Program Enhancement (Years 3-5)
• Pursue Tree City USA designation
• Complete urban tree canopy analysis
• Adopt 30% canopy goal by 2040
• Launch public tree planting program
• Develop educational materials and tree identification guide
Conclusion
Protecting centenarian trees requires deliberate policy choices that recognize these
irreplaceable community assets. The leading Florida programs demonstrate that
effective tree protection combines science-based thresholds, exponential replacement
requirements, meaningful penalties, and dedicated professional resources. Atlantic
Beach has the opportunity to join communities like Orange County, St. Petersburg, and
Coral Gables in establishing exemplary protections for its 100+ year old Live Oaks,
Southern Magnolias, and other native species that define the community's character.
The 30" DBH threshold recommended for Heritage Tree status captures trees
approximately 120 years old—specimens that have survived multiple generations of
development, countless storms, and represent living links to the community's past.
These trees cannot be replaced within a human lifetime, making their protection not just
an environmental imperative but a responsibility to future generations.
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 42 of 91
Valerie, please include as part of the minutes of the Dec. 17, 2025, ESC meeting.
As requested of me at the Dec. 17, 2025, ESC meeting, here are the observations and
recommendations of the developer of the property located at 1895 Hickory Lane to
strengthen the existing ordinances governing trees in Atlantic Beach as shared with and
understood by me in a Dec. 17, 2025, meeting. They include:
-Creating an overlay to provide greater protections for the most heavily treed
neighborhoods, which are unique due to large lots and large tree canopy . These areas
were originally developed with great care to preserve large oaks (i.e. areas west of
Seminole, such as Selva Marina). Overlay and historic corridor status would train
developers to take extra care because the citizens created this.
--ap note: this could include a test pilot for the prohibition of cutting down trees of a
certain DBH. The biggest trees shall not be removed.
--ap note: ensure these areas are designated as historic corridors
-There is a limit on inches granted for preservation credits (40 inches, I am told). Once
that limit is reached, there is no incentive to keep more trees. This can lead to the clear-
cutting we are seeing.
-Similarly, there is no distinction in terms of mitigation credit between trees preserved in
the interior of the lot and on the perimeter.
---It was noted that the City of Jax provides an incentive to preserve trees within the
interior of a lot by providing higher mitigation credit (double: 2 to 1 credit). This point in
the COJ code could be used as a model for CoAB.
-The exclusionary zone around trees meant to protect their roots makes siting a house
on a small lot challenging.
--ap research note: what do developers in heavily treed developments that work around
existing trees do on this point?
-Specialty foundations with piers meant to protect tree roots do exist, but are expensive.
How to incorporate these into building plans? Grant incentives?
-Granting variances to reduce front or side setbacks could save trees.
--If developers could meet with ESC through a formal process prior to engineering on
solutions to save trees by providing relief there would be greater appetite for the risk of
seeking a variance.
--Discussing this early in the process is key; otherwise, any wait time equals $.
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 43 of 91
- Without incentives, options for variances, or stronger rules, developers are left to their
own devices to either save trees or not. The above would level the playing field so that
all are subject to the same rules.
I will also reiterate my point of discovery that code appears to be silent on criteria for
granting variances in order to save trees.
Thanks,
Amy P.
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 44 of 91
treestrcc strati?ed-ve etation
—t-ha¥.These elements ‘Atlantic Beach with critical
iheThese tan ible benefits of health trees in our communit have been well documented
Sec.23-1.Purpose and intent.
Purpose.The provisions of this chapter are established for the purpose of
enhancing,conserving,restoring,protecting and preserving the natural environment,
specifically related to canopy,/-‘understory ‘and native coastal
dune vegetation provide ecosystem
s benefits.Priority shall be given
to the protection and preservation of existing resources.
Chapter 23 PROTECTION OF TREES AND THE NATURAL
ENVIRONNIENT1
ARTICLE I.IN GENERAL
City
City
.Reduce ?oodin and stormwater runoff.1m rove air ualit and reduce noise ollution.Buffer wind and reduce storm im acts
0 Provide shade and coolin
o Enhance aesthetics walkabilit and wildlife habitat
0 Increase ro ert values
Our uni ue maritime forest encompasses all of the trees within the and is an integral
and uniquely valuable part of the 7 ‘‘.The maritime forest
a critical element of the water management system,and is confirmed
to enhance overall property values.
(b)Intent.The provisions of this chapter are intended:
(1)To establish efficient and effective procedures,regulations and guidelines for the
protection of the natural environment.
...isMel-Imam
(gum——
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 45 of 91
(Supp.No.)
Created:2625-69—‘
(2)To promote and sustain community values by providing for an aesthetically pleasing
environment where a healthy maritime forest is maintained and regenerated.
(3)To protect natural systems and avoid impairment of their natural functions including
the provision of shade and cooling on lots ,sidewalks,streets
(4)To provide protection for environmentally sensitive areas.
(5)To ensure protection of healthy trees,recognizing that regulated trees that are lost
reduce the ,'resilience and overall economic value of the community,and
provide for replacement and/or relocation of trees which are permitted to be removed,
as set forth herein.
(6)Priority shall be given to the protection and preservation of the existing trees and
natural environment.
(Ord.No.95-21-119,§2(Exh.A),7-12—21)
Sec.23-2.Applicability.
All lands within the City of Atlantic Beach shall be subject to the provisions of this chapter.
(Ord.No.95—21—119,§2(Exh.A),7-12-21)
Sec.23-3.Relationship to land development regulations and the comprehensive plan.
This chapter contains specific and detailed provisions intended to implement the related
policies as set forth in the comprehensive plan,as may be amended.The provisions of this
chapter shall be implemented in coordination with chapter 24,Land Development Regulations,
of this Code of Ordinances,and in the case of any con?ict between the two (2)chapters,the
provisions establishing the higher standard shall prevail.
(Ord.No.95—21—119,§2(Exh.A),7—12—21)
Sec.23-4.Amendments to this chapter.
The .:.a ..'
.shall have the authority to amend this chapter as needed
to implement its intent,or to implement objectives and policies of the comprehensive plan,or
otherwise enact updates as may be appropriate.Amendment to this chapter shall be made in
accordance with the established procedures for amending any portion of this Code of
Ordinances.
(Ord.No.95—21-119,§2(Exh.A),7-12—21)
Secs.23-5—23-7.Reserved.
ARTICLE II.LANGUAGE AND DEFINITIONS
63—25 %3 3484312912 [EST]
eit-y—eemmkysienCitCommission
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 46 of 91
the-sitead-elFess-aHd—eaeh—individHBl—t-Feeeachindividual tree in uestion at the site alon with an
s ecific and sufficientl detailed evaluation to ermit confirmation of the assessment
Sec.23-8.Definitions.
For purposes of this chapter,the following terms shall have the meanings as set forth within
this section,and where interpretation is required,shall be interpreted so as to give these terms the
meaning they have in common usage.Where applicable and appropriate to the context,
definitions as set forth within chapter 24,Land Development Regulations,of this Code of
Ordinances,Florida State Building Codes or within Florida Statutes,as these may be amended,
shall be used in conjunction with these terms and the requirements of this chapter.
Administrator shall mean the representative of the .,‘1as designated by the
to oversee administration of this chapter.
Adversely a?ectedperson shall mean a person who is suffering or will suffer an adverse
effect to an interest protected or furthered by this chapter.The alleged adverse effect may be
shared in common with other members of the community but must exceed in degree the general
interest in community good shared by all persons in the community.
After-the-factpermit shall mean a permit issued after a violation has occurred for the
primary purpose of correcting the violation (if the activity would have been permittable)or for
the purpose of bringing the violator into compliance with existing regulations.
Appeal shall mean a request for the rehearing or review of a decision made pursuant to any
provision of this chapter.
Applicant shall mean the person(s)subject to or seeking a tree or vegetation removal permit
as required by the provisions of this chapter.
Approval shall mean written permission in the form of a tree or vegetation removal permit
from the administrator pursuant to a duly executed application submitted on a form as provided
by the 7 ',authorizing the applicant to proceed with an action as proposed within the
application.Such approval may consist of limitations or conditions specific to the project.
Arborist shall mean any person who is by the International Society of
Arboriculture (ISA)as an arborist and a member in good standing of the ISA.
Arborist report shall mean a report that is signed by -5.'a arborist,as defined above,
and that at a minimum clearly states the arborist's name,contact information,and qualifications,
and identifies .
Atlantic Beach Prohibited Species List shall consist of invasive .species listed by the
I in section 23-35(b).This list shall be updated on an as needed basis.
Atlantic Beach Recommended Species List shall consist of species that are best adapted to
the local ecosystem,which may provide the most desirable characteristics to the community.
Replacement credit may only be given for trees on the recommended species list in section 23—
33(f)(1)f.
Buildable area shall mean the area of a site,parcel or lot,excluding any area which is not
eligible for the issuance of a building permit by the a .jf.‘,such as building setback areas,
shoreline protection buffers,coastal construction setback areas,wetlands and other similar areas
Created:2625-‘697
(Supp.No.)5-150
[EST]
anaerti?ed
eeFti?edCel‘
managerCit Mana er
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 47 of 91
())O
Critical Root Zone CRZ shall mean the most Vital roots that trees need for survival and
that tend to exist in the to 6—18inches of soil in AB and which cannot be com acted cut or
dama ed.
required pursuant to the applicable provisions of this chapter and the land development
regulations.
Caliper shall mean the diameter of a tree trunk measured at a point six (6)inches above the
existing grade or proposed grade for trees four (4)inches in trunk diameter or smaller,and
twelve (12)inches above the existing grade or proposed planted grade for trees larger than four
(4)inches in trunk diameter.Caliper measurement is used in reference to nursery stock for new
plantings.For trees with multiple trunks,the sum of the caliper measurements of up to the four
(4)largest trunks shall be used.
Canopy shall mean the horizontal extension of a tree‘s branches in all directions from its
trunk.
City shall mean the City of Atlantic Beach.
Clear trunk shall mean the height of a palm tree measured from the ground to the point
where the lowest green frond is attached to the trunk.
Coastal dune vegetation shall mean the naturally-occurring,salt-tolerant native species of
grasses,shrubs,vines and trees that stabilize the dunes by holding existing sand and that serve to
repair the dunes of damage in?icted by either natural phenomena or human impact by trapping
wind-blown sand.
"”1
?:
8 Oaks-uercus Vir iniana Live Oak uercus michauxii Swam Chestnut Oak
(Supp.No.‘
99~;-r»“[EST]
Crown shall mean all portions of a tree,excluding the trunk and roots;specifically,the
branches,leaves,?owers,and fruit that grow above ground.
Designated maritime species shall mean those species that are among the most valuable and
desirable species in the and shall include the following species:
Bald Cypress (Taxodium distichum).
()Cedar "Juniperus siliciola (Southern Red Cedar),J.virginiaba (Eastern Red Cedar).
(,‘)Elm Ulmus alata ,(Winged Elm),Ulmus American ?oridana (Florida Elm).
;Hickory Carya Illinoensis (Pecan),C.tomentosa (Mockernut),C glabra (Pignut
Hickory).
(;)Loblolly bay (Gordanialasianthus).
(’)Magnolia -Magnolia grandiflora (Southern Magnolia"Magnolia Virginiana
(Sweetbay Magnolia)
()Maples Acer rubrum (Red Maple),Acer Barbatum (Florida Maple)
Created:2825
g1)(-H—American S camore Platanus occidentalis
{.
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 48 of 91
—Pinus tacda WWWL HPeaelH (Long
Lea:2,gPond
11 Sweet um Li uidambar st raciflua
99.x;[EST]
(9)Tupelo (Nyssa sylvatica)
(10)Pine "-'(Loblolly Pinus palustris
Pinus Serotina '..f)
Developed area shall mean that portion of a site upon which any building,structure,
pavement,or stormwater facility is placed.
Developed lot shall mean any parcel upon which any building,structure,pavement or
stormwater facility exists or is proposed but which does not fall under the definition of new
construction or vacant lot.
Development or development activity shall mean any alteration of the natural environment
which requires the approval of a development or site plan and issuance of a development permit;
shall also mean the removal of any regulated trees or vegetation,including without limitation
that carried on in conjunction with a forest management program,and the removal of regulated
trees and vegetation incidental to the development of land or to the marketing of land for
development and shall also include activities defined as development with section 24-17 of this
Code of Ordinances.
Diameter at breast height (DBH)shall mean the outside bark diameter of a tree measured at
a height of fifty—four(54)inches above the existing ground level.Trees with gross abnormalities
or buttressing at the breast height should be measured above or immediately adjacent to the
irregularity.Trees that fork at or above breast height should be measured below breast height and
recorded as a single trunk.For trees that fork below breast height or for trees with multiple
trunks,the sum of up to the four (4)largest trunks shall be used.
Diseased tree shall mean a tree with any fungal,bacterial,or viral infection that will
result in the ..death of the tree or has progressed to the point that treatment will not
prevent the death of the tree,as determined by the -'i T arborist.
Dripline shall mean the imaginary vertical plumb line that extends downward from the tips
of the outermost tree branches and intersects with the ground.
Ecosystem goods and services shall mean those goods and services that provide for health,
social,cultural,and economic needs and benefit all living organisms including plants,animals
and humans.Examples of ecosystem goods include clean air and abundant fresh water.
Examples of ecosystem services include purification of air and water,maintenance of
biodiversity,decomposition of wastes,soil and vegetation generation and renewal,pollination of
crops and natural vegetation,groundwater recharge through wetlands,seed dispersal,greenhouse
gas mitigation,and aesthetically pleasing landscapes.The products and processes of ecological
goods and services are complex and occur over long periods of time and the concern is that we
are losing them at an unsustainable rate.
Environmentally sensitive areas shall include lands,waters or areas within the City of Atlantic
Beach which meet one (1)or more of the following criteria:
Created:2625—
(Supp.No.)54$
near term
WWW certified
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 49 of 91
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
Wetlands determined to be jurisdictional,and which are regulated by the Florida
Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP),the US.Army Corps of Engineers,
or the St.Johns River Water Management District (SJRWMD);
Estuaries or estuarine systems;
Outstanding Florida Waters as designated by the State of Florida and natural water
bodies;
Areas designated pursuant to the Federal Coastal Barrier Resource Act (PL97-348),
and those beach and dune areas seaward of the coastal construction control line;
Areas designated as conservation on the future land use map;
Essential habitat to listed species as determined by approved methodologies of the
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission,the Department of Agriculture
and Consumer Services,the US.Fish and Wildlife Service,and the FDEP.
Equivalent value shall mean a monetary amount re?ecting the cost of vegetation to be
replaced.
Excavation shall mean the act of digging,cutting or scooping soil or in any way changing
the existing grade of the land.See "Grading"also.
maHHme—speeiesnon—invasivetree
eit-y—eemm'rssienCitCommission
Grading shall mean the placement,removal or movement of earth by use of
mechanical equipment on a property.See "Excavation"also.
Ground cover small means a plant material which reaches an average maximum height of
not more than eighteen (18)inches at maturity.
Grabbing means theeffective removal of understory vegetation from a site which _.
,,,,,does not include the removal of any trees with DBH greater than
three (3)inches-
Hardwood shall mean an angiosperm,a ?owering tree or a broad-leaved tree,as
distinguished from a gymnosperm or cone—bearingtree.
Hazard or hazardous shall mean a danger or risk of bodily injury or property damage.
Heritage tree shall mean any designated V._..
"that is thirty (30)
inches DBH or greater and declared by the .-"i 3 .:r;tobeof unique or
intrinsic value due to its age,size,species,and/or cultural,ecologicalorhistorical significance or
some other contribution to the *2 .or a neighborhood's character and which IS in good
condition,as determined by an arborist;also,any tree designated as a Florida State Champion,
United States Champion,or World Champion by the American Forestry Association which has
(Supp.No.,)
Created:2625-
eiieyisCity
[EST]
re uire a ermit even if this
shall
,often
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 50 of 91
he?tageHcrita e
heFi-tageHerita e eiiey-eemm‘rssienCitCommission
he?tageHerita e
awC—iw
on the Cit ’8 website
-)Florida
Invasive S ecies Council List of Invasive Plant S ecies
that are not native to our 3 eci?ed eo ra hic area and can cause
environmental or economic harm or harm human health
Legacy—treeLicensedlandsca e architect t—Fee—t—hat—ISerson who holds designated
Mme—spadesrasrde?nedlicensc to racticelandsca e architecture this-eha?tefTand—t-hat—ts—teH-
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eit—yCity
63-25 -2*3 11:93e31:29:12
tree-eensewa?ea—fu?dTrec Trust Fund
natural]eit—y—beunda?es-p?epte
(Supp.No.)
been designated to be a ,-tree by the ,.Heritage
trees may be located within parksor other public property On privateproperty,,"
trees must be voluntarilynominated by the property owner.The ,administrator shall keep
a record of all _,,'.t-rees so designated and their location '
Historic corridor shall mean a tree lined roadway or portion thereof that exhibits special
historic,architectural,or cultural value to the citizens of the as declared by the
International Society ofArboriculture (ISA)serves the tree care industry as a membership
association and a credentialing organization that promotes the professional practice of
arboriculture.ISA focuses on research,technology,and education to advance best tree care
practices and deliver educational publications,services,events,and credentials that provide
opportunities for tree care professionals to develop their knowledge,skills,and arboriculture
expertise.
Invasive plant shall mean
those plants
recognized on the Florida Noxious Weed and Invasive Plants List (F.A.C.5B—57.007
or listed on the Atlantic Beach
Prohibited Species List
Landscape materials shall mean living material,including trees,shrubs,vines,lawn grass,
and ground cover;landscape water features;and nonliving durable material commonly used in
landscaping,including rocks,pebbles,sand,and brick pavers,but excluding impervious surfaces
(pavement).
shall mean a a
in
Maritime forestshall mean the collection of trees,to include its canopy,the understory,and
ground cover in and around the ,.,including park and street trees on public property and
trees on private property.
Mitigation shall mean prorated payment for trees removed,either in terms of replacement
trees (newly planted),relocated trees,or preserved trees,or alternatively,deposit of a cash
equivalent value in the :-t .-',
Native shall mean a plant species occurring within the -
Naturalized exotic shall mean an exotic species that sustains itself outside cultivation.
Created:2625-''[EST]
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 51 of 91
)[
New construction shall mean the construction of a new principal building on a lot.For the
purposes of this chapter,this definition does not include construction proposed on vacant lots.
This definition shall include construction proposed on lots that have an active permit for
demolition of the principal building;lots where the principal building has been demolished but
no building permit for a new principal building has been issued;and where trees are proposed to
be removed or relocated in preparation for demolition or development of a principal building.
2
and structural inte ril or
Non—native shall mean a lant s ecies that was introduced to Florida either u osefull or
accidental]from a natural eo ra hic ran e outside of Florida.
Noxious shall mean a lant that can directl or indirect]in'ure or cause dama e to cm s
includin nurser stock or lant roducts livestock oultr or other interests of a riculture
irri ation navi ation the natural resources of the United States the ublic health or the
environment.A ricultural Risk Protection Act Public Law No.106-224 2000 .114
of a tree.£9,446er meenbe in accordance with
(Supp.No.)
02—25 43;ki—zear‘SiJ 2g
O?siteshall mean any location outside the boundaries of the project site.
Onsite shall mean any location within the boundaries of the project site.
Person shall mean any landowner,lessee,consultant,contractor,developer or other entity,
including agents,employees,independent contractors,whether persons,firms,associations,
corporations,partnerships,joint ventures,estates,trusts,business trusts,syndicates,fiduciaries,
governmental bodies,agencies or officials.
Pest shall mean any organism,insect,rodent,fungus,virus,bacteria,or other agent that
causes any damage,abnormal growth or mortality of any tree,shrub,bush,grass or ground
cover,or woody vegetation.
shall mean the removal of dead,dying,diseased,weak or objectionable
branches in order to increase usefulness,beauty vigor»
.Pruning shall ,_,..'w the following:American
NationalStandard Institute,Standard for TreeCareOperations—Tree,Shrub and Other Woody
Plant Maintenance—Standard Practices (ANSI A300,current edition);American National
Standard Institute,Safety Standards for Tree Care Operators (ANSI 2133.1,current edition);
National Arborist Association Pruning Standards for Shade Trees (current edition).
Regulated tree shall mean any tree as follows:
Created:2625
Prunin im r0 er shall mean the substantial alteration of a tree such that there is
irreversible dama e or that it is like]to result in the tree's decreased structural intc rit decline
or death.
5-150
[EST]
#FunePrunin
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 52 of 91
3 An tree lanted as re uired miti ation.
with .
(Supp.No..
(1)Private regulated tree shall mean any tree on private property,except those species
listed on the Atlantic Beach Prohibited Species List
_
a DBH of eight (8)inches or more.
(2)Public regulated tree shall mean any tree on public property,except those species listed
on the Atlantic Beach Prohibited Species List.
Regulated vegetation shall mean vegetation located within any area designated as an
"environmentally sensitive area,"as defined by the City of Atlantic Beach Comprehensive Plan
including,but not limited to,all wetlands,all beach and dune areas seaward of the coastal
construction control line,and all areas designated as conservation on the future land use map.
Shade tree shall mean any self-supporting woody plant of a species that is generally well-
shaped,well-branched,and well-foliated which normally grows to a minimum average height of
at least thirty—five(35)feet with a minimum average mature crown spread of at least thirty (30)
feet,and which is commonly accepted by local horticultural and arboricultural professionals as a
species which can be expected to survive for at least fifteen (15)years in a healthy and vigorous
growing condition over a wide range of environmental conditions.
Shrub shall mean a self—supportingwoody perennial plant differing from a perennial herb by
its persistent and woody stems and from a tree by its low stature and habit of branching from the
base.
Site shall mean the total area within the property boundaries of a principal parcel to be
developed,or contiguous parcels intended for development under a common scheme or plan.
Stop work order,as used in this chapter,shall mean an order from the designated
administrative official to immediately halt all vegetation and tree removal,any form of site or
soil disturbance,or other activity with potential to impact trees or vegetation regulated by this
chapter.
Street shall mean a public or private thoroughfare,which affords the principal means of
access to abutting property,including but not limited to alley,avenue,drive,lane,place,road,
street,terrace,way,or other means of ingress or egress,regardless of the term used to describe it.
Tree shall mean any self—supportingwoody or fibrous plant which at maturity attains a trunk
DBH of at least three (3)inches or more and which normally attains an overall height of at least
fifteen (15)feet,usually with one (1)main stem or trunk and many branches.Trees shall be
classified as follows:
(1)Large:Having an average mature height of fifty (50)feet or more.
(2)Medium:Having an average mature height of at least thirty (30)feet but less than fifty
(50)feet.
(3)Small:Having an average mature height of at least fifteen (15)feet but less than thirty
(30)feet.
Created:2625-,“3 69-[EST]03-25 —2§112%}:29112
,1 III IIEII .,,1 'I'I?lll‘ll‘l
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 53 of 91
eeaservetabn—fundTrustFund eit-
yQilyyevidean—eppeptwmtemake-equwment—vauecollect tom ekypugpose of
re lacin or enhancin the maritime forest tree
steektrees
or its Critical Root Zone
At—the—d-isem?en—ef—the—adminis?ateeFortreeswith a lar 6 CR2 that makes
construction Virtual]im ossible there are alternatives for tern oraril rotectin roots such as
thick mulch addin and steel or wooden latin .A r0 osed re uest for these exce tions can
be made durin the ermittin so the the administrator ma determine if
spiking,girdling,chemical poisoning,
improper pruning=
.2
the ressure #Mee?enmen?y—ehanged—and—
Feeults?ktreedea?wdedinee
ui ment vehicles or
material
(Supp.No.
Created:2625—I L..6914 [EST]
Tree (tree fund)shall mean an account established by the
to cash payment _.the
in lieu of providing the required landscape or
on a site.
Tree protection plan shall mean the plan required pursuant to this chapter,identifying and
showing the location,type,size and health of existing trees,stating the ultimate disposition of the
trees,showing the type,size and location of any trees to be planted and setting forth measures to
protect trees before,during and after construction.
Tree protectionzone shall mean the area located around the perimeter of the dripline of a
tree ..ir ....in which no activity such as clearing,filling,excavating,storage of
materials,parkingofvehicles,or any other activity that 1n the opinion of the administrator may
damage the tree.
..the tree protection zone
may be reduced for trees located on smaller lots in order to reasonably protect the tree and
facilitate construction on the development parcel.
Tree removal shall mean any act that physically removes the tree or its roots from the earth
or causes a tree to die including,but not limited to,
changing the natural grade above or below the root system or around the
trunk or the
of
Tree or vegetation removal permit shall mean the written authorization issued by the
to proceed with vegetation or tree removal in accordance with the provisions of this chapter,
which may include mitigation requirements and other terms and conditions as needed to create
consistency with this chapter.The terms permit,tree permit,vegetation removal permit or tree
removal permit may be used interchangeably as appropriate to the context.
Understory vegetation shall mean assemblages of natural low-level woody,herbaceous,and
ground cover species not normally considered to be trees which exist in the area below the
canopy of the trees,including any tree that is less than three (3)inches DBH.
Vacant lot shall mean any property not previously developed with a structure of any kind or
a property where all structures were removed more than twenty (20)years prior to the date of the
tree/vegetation removal application.
Variance.A variance shall mean relief granted from certain terms of this chapter.The relief
granted shall be only to the extent as expressly allowed by this chapter and may be either an
allowable exemption from certain provision(s)or a relaxation of the strict,literal interpretation of
certain provision(s).Any relief granted shall be in accordance with the provisions as set forth in
3414b:03-25 -2%Ema-1:29:12
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 54 of 91
Sec.23-11.Scope.
The provisions of this chapter shall be administered as set forth within this chapter.
Administrative procedures,authorities and responsibilities of the
and the administrator are set forth herein.
(Ord.No.95—21-119,§2(Exh.A),7-12-21)
DIVISION I.IN GENERAL
ARTICLE III.TREE AND VEGETATION REGULATIONS AND PERMITS
section 23-25 of this chapter,and such relief may be subject to conditions as set forth by the City
of Atlantic Beach.
Vegetation shall mean any plant material including,but not limited to,trees,shrubs,vines,
herbs and grasses,including marsh grasses and any coastal dune vegetation.
Vegetation inventory shall mean a scaled drawing which delineates the location and
common and/0r scientific name of vegetation upon a parcel of land,including trees greater than
three (3)inches DBH and palms with an overall height of more than eight (8)feet.If necessary,a
survey or other professionally prepared document,certified as appropriate,may be required as
part of the vegetation inventory.
Viable shall mean having the capacity to live and develop.
(Ord.No.95-21-119,§2(Exh.A),7-12—21)
Secs.23-9,23-10.Reserved.
83-25 "B -1-1—:0-3:—3-1.29:]£
ei-t-y—eemmissienCitCommission
(Supp.No.)
Created:2625-09:[EST]
Sec.23-12.City commission.
The ''T ,'..shall have the following authorities and responsibilities:
(1)To establish fees and fines related to the administrative costs of carrying out the
requirements of this chapter.
(2)To establish a tree conservation trust fund to collect and disburse monies for the
purpose of growing and maintaining the '.1 ;‘
V
maritime forest.
(3)To amend this chapter as may be needed to accomplish the stated purpose and intent of
this chapter.
54$
ei-t-yisCiy
DIVISION 2.ADMINISTRATION
eity—eemmissienCitCommission
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 55 of 91
(4)To hear and decide appeals where it is alleged there is an error in any order,
requirement or decision made by the community development board in the
implementation of this chapter.
(Ord.No.95-21-119,§2(Exh.A),7-12-21)
Sec.23-13.Administrator.
The administrator shall have the following authorities and responsibilities:
(1)To accomplish all administrative actions required by this chapter,including issuance of
proper notices;receipt and review of applications;issuance of tree and vegetation
removal permits;receipt and processing of appeals and any stop work orders.
ei-t-y—eemmissxienCitCommission
'I .|..I I F F
eenservatien—iundTrust Fund
trust eity—eemmissienCitCommission
tree-eemewa?en—?emd—(ltFee-fbvnlerecTrust Fund
ePcvSLILX
vegetatienmse?a?manémeieetien?nhancin the tree cano
estab?shment—ef-vegetat-Ne-Fese?eesas described t-he—eit—y—and—an-y—et—hem?lkwee?s-asseeiaieed
(Supp.No.)
es—-[EST]
8 To recommend to the ro‘ects consistent with thePJ
purpose and intent of this chapter,
(9)To recommend to the amendments consistent with the
implementation of the purpose and intent of this chapter
(Ord.No.95—21-119,§2(Exh.A),7-12—21)
Sec.23-14.Tree
(a)Establishment of tree 3 ;fund.The 1 hereby recognizes and
reaffirms the prior establishment of the for
the purposes of accepting and disbursing monies paid to the L:‘1'I'as part of tree
mitigation and any other funds deposited with the for the purpose of '
,
This fund shall be used solely
Created:2625—'
eit—y—eemmissienCitCommission
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 56 of 91
DI)
eit+eemmissienCitCommission
and—ina-Fe-
te-gag);accordin 1
ei-t-y—eemmissieHCitCommission
W?iis section
(b)
(C)
((1)
Terms ofexistence.The tree fund shall be self—perpetuatingfrom year to year unless
specifically terminated by the
Tree .assets.All funds received shall be placed in trust for the public
use and environmental benefit of the .Said funds shall ‘be used and
distributed as designated by the
Tree fundadministration.
(1)Tree funds shall be used only for the purposes designated by the
'in accordance with the intent of this chapter and the applicable goals,
objectives and policies
(2)All mitigation funds collected pursuant to this chapter shall be deposited into the tree
fund,which shall be a separate account established and maintained apart from the
general revenue fund of the
Disbursal of tree fund assets.
(1)Expenditures for projects funded by the tree fund shall be made in accordance with the
established purchasing procedures of the .The .
(ESC)shall review and make
recommendations on the disbursal of tree fund assets to the
final approval
(2)Priority shall be given to the use of funds for projects that plant replace
trees vegetation public
private
provided
premeteyhelpt0
er—mapiement—Hae—geais—a?d—ebjeetwes-estabh?hed—mrotcct and romote the Cit ’s maritime
eit—yCity envirenmemal—stewaréship
eemmitteeEnvironmentalStewardshi Committee
&elt-y—een?maenJFhe-at-y
eemmissien—shaH—halveCitCommission for -9n—a+Ldi5bu-Fsa¥s-ef—t-he—tFee—f-u-nd
assets
49:;__,or rotect
ergllg alengintheCitincludin both FighE—Qf—WGV—GF—GH
—pFepeFt—ies
etheFand ‘1:pmpertylandsFundscanbe used to su ort the maintenance of trees.
Funds ma beusedfor ancillar tree rotection costs
t—heirent—yan—i—setbaeleareas—er—in—the—easethatsuchcostsshall not exceed twent 20
m Mme cost of1 1 »QWMWWWWWeanepy—m—neghbmheeds—wrd—
alengpubhereadways—Eamcular
project.
funded b the Tree Trust Fund
Seeenéa?yAs a secondar riorit
and/
I |I'l'
(Supp.No.
L\.V
«v.
For trees planted on private property ,the property
owner shall be responsible for maintaining the health of the tree(s).
,funds may be used for purchase of landscape
materials or equipment necessary .for the preservation,maintenance,
relocation -'.._"orrestoration of trees and ecosystems on any public land in the .,,
or for the funding of community educational programs which enhance
Created:2625-5.-93»2‘3 «23 1-1’93+3-1129:1Z [EST]
theof
Commission
City
fundFun
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 57 of 91
_thisforest.Funds ex ended under Wh may not exceed twengd 20)percent
of the total ex enditures from the tree fund annual]
(Ord.No.95-21-119,§2(Exh.A),7—12—
.I 6NQFHGHSH-H‘GSH‘E r“)S )7
InvasiveS CCICS FE-PJIG);FISC or
995%me
«ma certified
DIVISION 3.PERMITS
Sec.23-21.Permits required by this chapter.
Unless specifically exempted within following section 23-22,permits are required for
removal of regulated trees and vegetation on all lands within the City of Atlantic Beach.The
permit requirements are not intended to restrict or adversely affect a property owner's rights
under constitutional or statutory law,or otherwise preempt applicable Florida Statutes.
(Ord.No.95-21-119,§2(Exh.A),7-12-21)
Sec.23-22.Exemptions from the requirement for a permit.
In addition to the provisions of section 23—21,the following activities shall be exempt from
the requirements to apply for and receive a tree or vegetation removal permit.
The person(s)claiming any exemption shall have the burden of proving entitlement to such
exemption.The administrator may require consultation with or documentation from a certified
arborist to verify certain conditions.
(1)Emergency situation.The removal of trees destroyed or severely damaged during or
immediately following an emergency (i.e.,hurricane,tropical storm,tornado,?ood or
any other act of nature)shall be granted an exemption when the administrator
determines that normal permitting requirements will hamper private or public work
which will compromise public safety.
(2)Safety hazard.The removal of trees that pose imminent danger to the public health,
safety and general welfare shall be granted an exemption upon inspection and
determination by the administrator that immediate removal without delay is required.
(3)Diseased or pest-infestedtrees.The removal of diseased or pest--infested trees shall be
granted anexemptionupon inspection and determination by the administrator
or 5 ,.arborist that removal 1s needed for the purpose of preventing the spread
of diseaseorpests.
(4)..‘
"
.-:.trees The removal of 1nvasive trees,as currently
listed bythe FloridaDepartmentofAgriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS),
FloridaDepartmentofEnvironmentalProtection(FDEP),Florida ;.“
~
Council (_‘the Atlantic Beach Prohibited SpeciesList
‘
‘
‘shall be granted an exemptionuponinspection and
verification by the administrator or .arborist.
(Supp.No.)
Created:2625-
ra—feFestef-y and certified
O
[EST]
u
Secs.23-15—23-20.Reserved.
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 58 of 91
l’V
VD
DY.2
MAI]efforts will be
made to make that area aestheticall leasin to avoid dama in tree roots and to
leave trees structurall sound.The Cit
eityCi y
(5)
(6)
(7)
(8)
Utility operations.The pruning and/or removal of trees or understory vegetation by
duly authorized communication,water,sewer,electrical or other utility companies or
federal,state,county or .agencies,or engineers or surveyors working under a
contract with such utility companies or agencies,shall be exempt,provided the
removal is limited to those areas necessary for the maintenance of existing lines or
facilities or for the construction of new lines or facilities in furtherance of providing
utility service to its customers,and provided further that the activity is conducted so as
to avoid unnecessary removal and,in the case of aerial electrical utility lines,is not
greater than that specified by the National Electrical Safety Codes as necessary to
achieve safe electrical clearances.Notwithstanding this exemption,any such entity
shall provide adequate prior notice to the before commencing such work
Surveyors/engineers.The pruning of trees and/or removal or understory vegetation by
a Florida-licensed land surveyor or engineer in order to provide physical access or
View necessary to conduct a survey or site examination for the performance of
professional duties related to land surveying,soil percolation and/or soil bore tests
shall be exempt provided that such alteration is limited to a swath of ten (10)feet or
less in width.Any pruning or removal of trees or vegetation shall be as minimal as
possible at the direction of the administrator.However,any land clearing for the
purpose of surveys shall not authorize the removal of any regulated trees or regulated
vegetation.
City crews.The shall have the right to plant,prune,maintain and remove trees,
plants and shrubs within public rights-of—way,within any utility or drainage easements
or within the illumination areas of street lights,and other public lands as may be
necessary,and shall not be subject to mitigation assessment.
shall not have the responsibility to maintain,
prune or remove any damaged,deador diseased trees on any private property within
the
Exemptions Applicable exemptions in accordance with Florida Statutes.
Sec.23-23.Permits procedures.
(a)Application required.The applicant for a tree or vegetation removal permit shall submit the
established fee along with the application form as created and provided by the ,','1'to the
designated administrative department.The application shall contain all required narrative
and graphical information necessary to determine compliance with this chapter.If the
applicant is not the property owner,proper owner‘s authorization shall also be required.
(Supp.No.51)
Created:2625-69-23 11:63:31 [EST]
al
eit-yCity and
make eve effort to retain as much tree cano to avoid dama in tree roots and to
rune in a wa that leaves trees safe and structurall sound
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 59 of 91
eitylsCity's
WWWEnVimnmemal Stewardshi Committee
Tree Subcommittee
69$;[EST]
(1)
(2)
(3)
Existing lots or parcels.When a tree or vegetation removal permit is required,
applications for tree or vegetation removal shall be made prior to removal and prior to
any site disturbance or grading on a lot or parcel.
New or re—plattedsubdivisions.Applications for tree or vegetation removal that will be
part of a new subdivision plat or a re-plat shall be submitted along with the preliminary
subdivision plat application so that due consideration may be given to the protection of
regulated trees and regulated vegetation during the site planning and subdivision
process.Trees to be protected shall be noted on the final subdivision plat,and
subsequent applications for individual lots or parcels shall be consistent with the
approved final subdivision plat,or application for a new tree removal permit shall be
required.
After-the—factpermits.Any person(s)engaging in the removal of regulated tree(s)or
regulated vegetation prior to obtaining a permit will be required to apply for and obtain
an after-the-fact permit,and meet mitigation requirements as assessed.
(b)Su?ciency review ofapplications.
(1)
(2)
(3)
Upon receipt of the application and appropriate fee,the administrator shall conduct a
preliminary review within five (5)business days to determine that all required
information has been submitted and is sufficient for review purposes.The applicant
shall be notified of any deficient items.Upon submittal of deficient or missing
information,the administrator shall again review the application.If the requested
information has not been provided or is insufficient,the applicant shall be notified in
writing that no further review will be performed until the requested information is
provided and found to be sufficient.
The administrator shall upload all tree permit applications to the website and
send to *
..(ESC)
within three (3)days of being deemed sufficient in accordance with this section.
The ESC .1 may review any permit application for compliance with
this chapter and may provide recommendations to the administrator regarding the
permit application.
_The administrator may refer the application to other
‘
.department(s),the
ESC»or a consultant during preliminary review.The applicant shall be notified if
extended review by other departments and/or professionals is required.
()An application shall be deemed abandoned thirty (30)days after the date the
administrator notifies the applicant of any deficiencies contained in the application if
the applicant has failed to submit all of the deficient or missing information.The
administrator may,upon written request and justification by the applicant,grant not
more than one (1),"Z:1:r'—dayextension.At the expiration of the extension,the
application shall automatically become null and void.In such cases,the application
review fees will not be refunded.
(0)Review by other agencies.At the discretion of the administrator,relative to the
environmental sensitivity of the site,appropriate written sign-offs,permits or consents from
(Supp.No.
Created:2925-‘i
54-)
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 60 of 91
()p q 421)p
,gun
I)z p
pp m:
(f)x 17 pp p v(
v n 2 D
()0 YR
LL—\
()D D vp
()pp v gpy
n 2.D g
any v rvv
(d d Ins ections re uz'red.The a licant shall schedule all re uired ins ections in accordance
with Section 23-24 followin a lication submittal.
e Miti ation calculations.U on com letion of the re uired ins ections staff shall rovide the
a licant with the a licable tree miti ation calculations ursuant to Section 23-33.
Miti ation lan submittal.The a licant shall submit a miti ation lan within thin 30
calendar da 3 of recei t of the miti ation calculations.The miti ation lan shall:
1 Include a site lan identif in the location of all reserved trees relocated trees and
r0 osed new treeS'
2 Indicate the s ecies and cali er size of all relocated and new]lanted treeS'
3 If the a licant elects to satisf miti ation re uirements throu h a ment in lieu of on—
site lantin include documentation detailin the number of cali er inches to be miti ated
throu h a ment as well as an other information deemed necessa b the Cit .
and an a roved miti ation lan has
been submitted ?r-eeg?
ereylsCity's
)
the agencies listed below which have jurisdiction may be required prior to regulated tree or
regulated vegetation removal from sites contiguous to or containing environmentally
sensitive areas or lands.The applicant shall obtain the written approvals,permits,or
consents and submit the agencies'written verification to the "
(1)Army Corp of Engineers (ACOE);
(2)Saint Johns River Water Management District (SJ RWMD);
(3)Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP);
(4)Any other applicable governmental agencies extending jurisdictional controls over the
site.
Compliance review and approval ofapplications.When the administrator's application
review process and inspections have been completed
,
'z".,the administrator shall distribute the approved .-permit to the
applicant and all members of the .upload the draft permit to the -J ”website.
(.)Expiration ofpermits.Work pursuant to the permit shall commence within six (6)months
()
of the date of issuance,or the permit shall expire.If the tree removal permit is in connection
with a development permit,compliance with the tree removal permit shall be determined
before the applicable development permit's final inspection,or issuance of certificate of
completion or certificate of occupancy,as applicable.
Content ofpermits.The permit shall be issued in such form as may be prescribed by the
administrator and shall set forth in detail the conditions upon which the permit is granted
and specifically identify which land areas shall be cleared and/or which trees shall be
permitted to be removed.One (1)permit may cover several trees or groups of trees as long
as the trees or groups of trees can be clearly identified thereon;provided,however,no
permit may be issued for more than one (1)lot,parcel or area of land unless such lots,
parcels or areas of land shall be contiguous to one another and considered as one (1)parcel
for the purpose of development.
Created:2825-89»:
(Supp.No.
03~25 —B +1»:93+31:29:12
5-1:)
[EST]
ESC and
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 61 of 91
1()Posting ofpermits.The permit shall be posted in a conspicuous and visible place at the front
of the property by the applicant prior to any tree removal.The permit shall remain posted on
the property during all applicable tree and vegetation removal activity and until final
inspection by the _
'.It is the responsibility of the applicant to maintain the permit in a
clearly visible manner at all times.
(1)Amendment ofpermits.Requests for minor changes to approved plans shall be made as an
amendment to the applicable permit.Additional information submitted with a request for
permit amendment shall be adequate to fully document the nature of the proposed change
and the effect it will have on all aspects regulated by this chapter.All plans,reports,
calculations,and other information affected by the proposed amendment shall be updated so
as to maintain an accurate record of the development activity.Review time for any changes
to plans approved for a permitted site shall be the same as specified for the review of a new
application.An amendment to a permit shall not automatically extend the expiration date.
Substantial changes,including significant increases in the number of trees to be removed or
land to be cleared,increases in impervious surface area,changes to intended land use,
modification of stormwater management systems,or any other change that constitutes a major
modification to a site plan or subdivision,new phases of development or other additions,shall
not be treated as amendments,but shall require a new permit application and fee.
(i)Revocation ofpermits.
(1)By administrator.The administrator may revoke any permit issued pursuant to this
chapter,following notice in writing to the permittee and after providing the permittee
opportunity to respond to the notice,in either of the following circumstances:
a.The administrator finds that the permittee has continued with any development
activity on a site for which a permit was issued,while the site is under a stop work
order which has not been reversed,canceled or suspended pursuant to this chapter,
except for specified remedial work required to bring the Violation into compliance
with the approved permit;or
b.If the administrator finds that the approval of the permit was based on incorrect
information furnished by the applicant for the permit.Based upon such finding,
however,the administrator may make reasonably necessary accommodationsto
the conditions of a permit in lieu of revoking it.
(2)Discontinuance of work.Revocation of a permit may also result in a stop work order in
accordance with section 23—48.
(Ord.No.95—21—119,§2(Exh.A),7-12-21v .)
Sec.23-24.Inspections and site preparation.
(a)Inspections.The following inspections shall be conducted in conjunction with all
development activities subject to the requirement for a tree or vegetation removal permit.
Created:2825-69-4
(Supp.No.5-1-
[EST]
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 62 of 91
IheU on recei tof a com 16th a lication the
pFieHe-ap-pmva-l-ef—anvtoverif the information
list on the
(Supp.No.‘
(1)Initial inspection.'
,
-administrator shall
conduct an initial inspectionofthe site
'
.application.
(2)Protective barricade inspection.A protective barricade inspection shall ensure proper
installation of measures prior to the initiation of any other development activity where
required as a condition of the permit.’
(3)Final inspection and notice ofcompletion.A final inspection and notice of completion
shall occur when all development activities permitted for the site have been completed.
N0 certificate of occupancy shall be issued,nor any building or premises occupied,
unless and until the administrator has determined after final inspection that all work,
including land clearing,regulated tree or regulated vegetation removal,tree protection
and tree replacement,has been done in accordance with the approved permit and plan.
(4)Maintenance inspections.The administrator shall have the authority during the
required three (3)year maintenance period to conduct on-site maintenance inspections
subsequent to final inspection and notice of completion,and to require correction of all
deficiencies and violations in accordance with this chapter.
(b)Site preparation.Prior to requesting initial and/or protective barricade inspection,the
applicant shall prepare the site
to
ensure clear understanding between the property owner,contractor,administrator and other
inspectors that may be involved.
(1)The address or legal description of the property shall be displayed in a conspicuous
manner.
(2)The property corners shall be marked according to survey with wooden stakes.Each
stake shall be ?agged with surveyor‘s tape or with bright colored paint.
(3)All trees to be preserved during development activities,including
,shall be barricaded according to
(4)All trees proposed for removal shall be identified with red or orange surveyor‘s
tape or paint.
(5)All trees proposed for protection as mitigation for removed trees shall be
identified with blue or green surveyor's tape or paint
(Ord.No.95—21—119,§2(Exh.A),7-12-21)
Created:2825-
clearly
laccd ate 6 level throu hout the
construction eriod
03—25 B—li—Z?éi?lgtll
5-!50
[EST]
Barricadcs shall be installed in accordance with
Section 23—
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 63 of 91
tree—subeemmi-t-
subeemmitteeTreeSubcommittee
eemmu-Hit—y—develepmen-t—be?dcommunitDevelo ment Board
Hee—subeemmi’eteeTl‘eeSubcommittee
Sec.23-25.Appeals and variances.
(a)Appeals.Appeals of final decisions by the administrator made under the authority of this
chaptermay be made by the applicant,any member of the ESC
,or an adversely affected party in accordance with the following provisions.Anyappealfiledpursuant to this section shall stay all work on the premises and all
proceedings 1n furtherance of the action appealed unless the appropriate administrative
official certifies that a stay would cause imminent peril to life or property.
(1)Appeals of a final action or decision by the administrator shall be filed in writing with
the administrator within five (5)business days after rendition of the decision or final
order being appealed.Upon receipt of a timely filed appeal,the administrator shall
place the matter on the agenda of the next ESC .
meeting or request a special meeting within a reasonable period of time with proper
public notice,as well as due notice to interested parties.ESC
..shall review the application for compliance with the requirements ofChapter23andshall,by majority vote,recommend that the administrator either
approve,approve with conditions,or deny the appeal.If the appellant is a member of
the ESC ‘‘
1 ,,,,.'1--,that member shall not participate in the
decision.The administrator,upon considering the tree subcommittee recommendation,
shall issue or deny the permit within five (5)business days after the ESC
meeting.
(b)Variances.The .‘is authorized to
grant relief from the strict application of this chapter where,due to an exceptional situation,
adherence to the regulations of this chapter results in "exceptional practical difficulties or
undue hardship"upon a property owner.The
,must determine that granting the request will not cause substantial
detriment to the public good and will not be inconsistent with the general intent and purpose
of this chapter.The applicant has the burden of proof.Any request for a variance pursuant
to this section shall stay all work on the premises and all proceedings in furtherance of the
action appealed,unless the appropriate administrative official certifies that a stay would
cause imminent peril to life or property.
(1)A request for a variance shall be submitted on an application form as provided by the
(Supp.No.
""and shall contain each of the following:
A legal description of the property for which the variance is requested.
b.A reasonable statement describing the reasons and justification for the variance.
c.A survey or site plan indicating existing,removed,and/or proposed trees;existing
and proposed construction,as well as other significant features existing on the lot.
(1.The signature of the owner,or the signature of the owner's authorized agent.
Written and notarized authorization by the owner for the agent to act on behalf of
the property owner shall be provided with the application.
Created:2625—69
)
[EST]-,-‘H
Develo ment Board
Hee—subeemmit—teeTICeSubcommittee
Subcommittee
tree-sabeemmmit—
Subcommittee
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 64 of 91
Board
03‘25 “3%415-9381219?2
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
(Supp.No.
Upon receipt of a complete and proper application,the administrator shall within a
reasonable period of time schedule the applicationforapublic hearing before the
following the required
public notice as set forth in section 24-51 Atthepublichearing,the applicant may
appear in person and/or may be represented by an authorized agent.
a.Applications for a variance shall be considered on a case-by-case basis and shall
be approved only upon findings of fact that the application is consistent with the
definition of a variance and consistent with the provisions of this section.
b.Variances shall not be granted solely for the personal comfort or convenience,for
relief from financial circumstances,or for relief from situations created by the
property owner.
Grounds for approval of a variance.The
shall find that one (1)or more of the following factors exist tosupportanapplicationforavariance:
a.Existing topographic elevation changes that would result in the likelihood that
preserved or planted materials would not survive.
b.Existing electrical lines or utility easements that prevent or restrict the
preservation or planting of landscape materials.
c.Barrier island or dune ecosystem planting conditions that cannot support certain
hardwood species.
(1.Designs and plans that,to the greatest extent feasible,avoid encroachment upon
preservation areas and/or trees.
In the event the community development board finds that none of the above exist,then
the community development board shall deny the variance.
Approval of a variance.To approve an application for a variance,the
'shall find that the request is in
accordance with theprecedingtermsandprovisions of this section and that the
granting of the variance will be 1n harmonywith the purpose and intent of this chapter.
I11granting a variance,the ,
may prescribe appropriate conditions in conformance with and to maintain consistency
with .~.Code.Violation of such conditions,when made a part of the terms under
which the variance is granted,shall be deemed a Violation of this chapter,and shall be
subject to established code enforcement procedures.
Approval of lesser variances.The
,shall have the authority to approve a lesser variance than requested if a lesser
variance shall be more appropriately in accord with the terms and provisions of this
section and with the purpose and intent of this chapter.
Nearby nonconformity.Nonconforming characteristics of nearby lands,structures or
buildings shall not be grounds for approval of a variance.
Created:2625-69--‘
)5-1-
[EST]
develepment—beardCOmmunitDevelo ment Board
(gammy—WComnmnit Develo ment Board
Dcvelo ment Board
eemmunit—y—éevelepmeni—beaFdCOmmunit
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 65 of 91
eemmu-nityommunit
eerrmunit—y—devel-epment—beardCOmmunitDevelo ment
Board eity—eemmissienCit Commission
eit—
yCity
eit—y—
Commission
eit-y-eemmissienCit Commission
Created:2625-,“[EST]
(7)Waiting period for re—submittal.If an application for a variance is denied by the
(8)
(9)
community development board,no further action on another application for
substantially the same request on the same property shall be accepted for three hundred
sixty-five (365)days from the date of denial.
Time period to implement variance.Unless otherwise stipulated by the
’',the work to be performed pursuant
to a variance shall begin within twelve (12)months from the date of approval of the
variance.The planning and 'development director,upon finding of
good cause,may authorize a one-time extension provided that an associated building
permit is active.
Appeals of a decision by the
'
..related to this chapter may be made to the "by
any adversely affected person(s),any officer,board or department of the
affected by any decision of the community development board made under the
authority of this chapter.Such appeal shall be filed in writing with the .
’within thirty (30)days after rendition of the final order,requirement,decision or
determination being appealed.The appellant shall present to the
.a petition,duly verified,setting forth that the decision being appealed is
in con?ict with or in violation of this chapter,in whole or in part,and specifying the
grounds of the con?ict or violation.A duly noticed public hearing,which shall be de
novo,will be held by the ,.at a date and time set by the
...,,or his/her designee,shall be scheduled within ten (10)
business days from the date the appeal is filed.
(Ord.No.95—21—119,§2(Exh.A),7-12-21 )
Sec.23-26.Fees.
(a)Application fees.The hereby establishes the following fees
related to the administrative costs of carrying out the requirements of this chapter.These
fees shall be payable to the t .,_'.upon submittal of an application for approval,
amendment,or extension of a permit required by this chapter,or for each required re-
inspection,or when a final action or decision by the administrator is appealed.Applications
for tree and vegetation removal related requests shall not be considered as complete
applications until such time as required fees have been paid in full.
(1)
(Supp.No.
Tree and vegetation removal permit application.The tree and vegetation removal
permit application fee shall cover the processing and review of the application as well
as one (1)initial inspection,one (1)protective barricade inspection,one (1)final
inspection and one (1)maintenance inspection per year.Any additional inspections
required due to inadequate site preparation or reports of violation of the provisions of
this chapter will be charged a reinspection fee as-provided below:
a.or two-family residential uses (per lot "",.00
)
SingeDevelo ed sin lc
63-25 u}?1i -04-—3
5%50
)$-12§)§150‘il
ei-t—y—manageFCitMana er
ei-t-y—eemmissienCi‘LCommission
develepnmnyeeaFdCommunit Develo mcnt Board
Clerk
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 66 of 91
9
3
(D
AppeaJs—HéAppealS$500
WeesseoVariances 500
59E
New construction or vacant sin le—or two-famil residential uses
$500.00
usesQéOuseS $250
asesaéauses 250
{7159525999
er lot
Multifamily residential
Commercial or industrial
Institutional and any other
.00
.00
.00
Created:2625-7.7-»[EST]
(3).00
(4).00
(b)Reinspection fees..00
(c)Research or extensive time fees (per h0ur)50.00
(Ord.No.95-21-119,§2(Exh.A),7-12-21)
Secs.23-27—23-29.Reserved.
DIVISION 4.GENERAL PROVISIONS
Sec.23-30.Minimum tree requirements.
These minimum tree requirements shall apply to all property within the '.Credit will
be given for trees on the Atlantic Beach Recommended Species List,but none will be given for
trees on the Atlantic Beach Prohibited Species List.Section 24-176 of this Code of Ordinances
also provides additional landscaping requirements for nonresidential uses.
(1)Residential uses.For each parcel upon which a single-family,two-family or
multifamily dwelling unit,or associated residential accessory unit is proposed,or
where the primary activity is residential in nature:
One (1)minimum four-inch caliper tree shall be planted and/or preserved for every two
thousand five hundred (2,500)square feet of development parcel area or portion
thereof,excluding therefrom preserve areas and water bodies.Of the minimum
required trees,at least one (1)tree shall be a shade tree planted or preserved within the
required front yard.A cluster of three (3)palm trees,subject to other conditions of this
chapter,may be used to meet the requirements of a single shade tree within required
front yards on oceanfront lots only.
(2)Commercial uses.For each parcel upon which a commercial structure or associated
accessory use is proposed,or where the primary activity is commercial in nature:
One (1)minimum four—inchcaliper tree shall be planted and/or preserved for every
eight thousand (8,000)square feet of parcel area or portion thereof,excluding
therefrom preserve areas and water bodies.
(Supp.No.)5-150
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 67 of 91
mat—tom
eFfFem-
or otherwise dama in a tree’s root 5 stem
root disturbance
dama e
eit-yCity
without a Cit ermil
(Supp.No.‘
Created:2925-‘69 '[EST]83—25 —?'}«}}593~:—3§:29:12
(3)Industrial uses.For each parcel upon which an industrial structure or associated
(4)
accessory use is proposed,or where the primary activity is industrial in nature:
One (1)minimum four-inch caliper tree shall be planted and/or preserved for every ten
thousand (10,000)square feet of parcel area or portion thereof,excluding therefrom
preserve areas and water bodies.
Public/semi-public (governmental or institutional)uses.For each parcel upon which a
government structure or associated accessory use is proposed,or where the primary
activity is public/semi-public in nature:.
One (1)minimum four-inch caliper tree shall be planted and/or preserved for every ten
thousand (10,000)square feet of parcel area or portion thereof,excluding therefrom
preserve areas and water bodies.
(Ord.No.95-21—119,§2(Exh.A),7-12-21)
Sec.23-31.General prohibitions.
Except as provided in sections 23—21and 23-22,the following general prohibitions shall be
applicable.
(a)
(b)
(C)
Excessive or improper pruning.It shall be unlawful for any person to engage in
excessive or improper pruning techniques on trees required '5,an approved
tree protection plan.Trees intended for shade purposes shall be allowed to reach their
mature canopy spread.
Pruning 'I ,or removal of ._trees.It shall be unlawful for any
person to trim,prune,or remove any tree which is within the .rights-
of—wayor upon any other _property Without the permission of the as
evidenced by the appropriate permit.
Tree *-.T '.It shall be unlawful for any person to subject a
tree to any danger from poison or reactive material,'girdling with wire,cable or
similar material,-5‘inserting metal or chemicals into a tree "
(d)Attachments.It shall be unlawful for any person to attach anything,including signs,
(6)
permits,nails or spikes that may be injurious or cause damage,to a tree.Exceptions are
protective wires,braces or other devices used to support a tree.
Unauthorized clearing of lots.It shall be unlawful for any person to clear the trees
from any lot 'v :'x;a such that the minimum requirements of section 23-
30 are not maintained.
(Ord.No.95-21-119,§2(Exh.A),7—12—21)
eit-
yls‘vCity'eit—
or cuttin com ressin
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 68 of 91
()()
(V
DD
DV
EDDV
1v
‘
E
tempm
steregetem orar or ermancnt lacement
soils or stones or lacement
,I E 'I I .
preteet—ien—zeneCriticalRoot Zon 49:1
or trees on an ad'oinin r0 ert or ri ht—of—wa
that—the
Wmmmmme rotection of
there airs im rovements and/or an .The
owner s and a ent 3 shall ensure full corn liance with the measures described in,this section to
rotect the Critical Root Zone trunks and cano of trees
mThis includes rohibitin the tem orar
lacement of ef—these—er—et—heFS—uch soils
water and/or may-net—beauewed-te-sit-emern__ear
-er—whe+=e—plan¥mg—bedsa¥e—te-
be—sit-uat-ed.—_WPro er Owner res onsibili or Way-W;
shewn—en—t—he—vegeta?en
carefull
eit-yCity
developmeM—erder
promptly a—
Femedialae?en—as—required-by—this—ehapterSection23-34
Pretee?veSturd rotective
the Critical Root Zone of
HM nBarriersshallremain
publieheel—byintactthrou hout l Wura?on *Wonstructio
n
an-y
WWWumil all risks to the rotected trees have
been miti ated as determined 49%.Removal or relocation
of barriers rior to written a roval shall constitute a violation of pamCode.
(Supp.No.)
Created:2825-”;‘[EST]
Sec.23-32.Tree protection during development and construction.
properties ,regardless of whether or
not a tree removal permit is required,the property owner(s)and their agent(s)shall ensure
':all regulated trees
that may be impacted by development activities
(a)Restrictions during construction.
(1)Placement ofmaterials,machinery,or soils.It shall be unlawful for any
person(s)to cause or allow the 1 i of
construction materials,.
‘
.the passing of :or use of
heavy equipment or machinery within the
of any regulated tree group of trees to be
preserved .
‘
(2)Disposal ofwaste materials.It shall be unlawful for any person(s)to cause or
allow the disposal of waste materials such as paint,oil,solvents,asphalt,concrete,
or mortar on any private property.
‘.‘any .materials that may be harmful to the 2
.life of a regulated tree on or the soil
within the tree protection zone
(b)tree protection The
property owner(s)and their agent(s)shall ensure that any tree
for which a tree removal permit has not been obtained is to be
protected.The property owner shall .guarantee survival of preserved,relocated,
and replacement trees for no less than three (3)years from the date the accepts
the trees and landscaping as complete
.If a preserved,relocated or replacement tree dies during that time
period,the property owner shall ._.."replace the tree in accordance with
(c)Protective barriers and signage required.‘:»barriers and
signage shall be installed around '._A..‘?.every tree or group of trees
to be preserved prior to commencement of construction _,
,in
and .'
'"the L of ‘or
.by the administrator
>23471+G&s3<1229212
5-}50
this
further
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 69 of 91
---I01‘SVISIBLE
D
2
J l3 D V 5’(l
J?D
n 0
V V
——.g_:
—L—’_D_
E_—L_-
—IZL4V_«I;
v 2 ’1 u
p )
(1)
,'protective barriers shall be placed feet
from the base of any tree
shall encompass at least fifty (50)percent of the area under the
of wood
two—by—four posts
eight (8)feet apart with a
IempeFar-yMinimumbarrier distance.For all rotected trees to be reserved on site
tempor?at—least—six—télnotless than 10
read.Further for all trees that are 30 inches DBH or
reater the barrier shall be laced not less than 15 feet from the base of an
treeand dripuneet
theadmtntstraterunnruneddrib line of a tree
Where com liance with the above revisions is h sicall not ‘
ossible a re uest
to rovide an alternative for art of the area such as a thick ine straw mulch or
addin that is maintained at no less than 6 inches dee for art of the rotection
distance ma be considered b the Administrator.
lemperaiwreteetiveBarrier construction standards.Protective at
least—three—(sl—feet-high?stablishedasfollows:
a.Be not less than 42 inches in hei ht't ahaH-eensisg
b.Be constructed _either—a—“tenee—wit-h-OI‘metal fencin that rovide
rotection and durabilit 'and
c.Be su orted b steel or $2 X 4)*ptaeed—a—max'imumefsaced no
more than and secured >it,WWW '
,rope
I .II I l"i;
(d d.Have clearl visible si na e statin “DO NOT ENTER”or “NO ACCESS”
laced on or above the barrier at least ever ei ht 8 feet.
(Supp.No.)
93-25 -2-3—-Fx~:93:31:29:12Created:2625-69 [EST]
barriers shall be
top rail
and
(2)
‘llu
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 70 of 91
_g__v
uP1‘1’
I:
p
Diameter At Breast Hei ht DBH
I |.|I I'l I l'l
3c—hem-aEeeH'-t-ee+4ngFeateF WW
(Supp.No.
Created:2625—.[EST]
)Adjacent properties.The property owner(s)and their agent(s)shall ensure protective
barricading of all regulated trees located ,..,on adjacent properties,
that have root or branch systems that encroach upon the subject property,and that may
potentially be impacted by development activities.
(Ord.No.95-21-119,§2(Exh.A),7—12—21)
Sec.23-33.Mitigation to be assessed.
(a)Mitigation required.Replacement or relocation shall be the preferred methods of mitigation.
Unless mitigation in the form of payment into the tree conservation fund has been approved
in accordance with section 23—37,mitigation in the form of tree replacement,relocation or
preservation shall be required to offset any impacts resulting from the removal of regulated
trees/vegetation as a condition of the tree or vegetation removal permit.
(b)Mitigation assessment.In general,mitigation shall be assessed according to the ratios given
in the following table,such that the number of inches removed (first number)are
proportional to the number of inches required to be replaced,relocated or preserved (second
number):
TABLE 1.STANDARD MITIGATION ASSESSNIENT
CLASSIFICATION OF CATEGORY OF REGULATED TREE
PROPERTY
Heritage
6315 43»1§-:64:-3-1:
The u ose 0f miti ation is to incentivize rotection of existin trees and where that is not
feasible ensure sufficient lantin and care of 3 r0 riate new ones.
the ri ht of wa or
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 71 of 91
1:1 1:3
1:4
1:41:2 1:3
(-L49—inehe5than—feu?eengreaterinehes
(-Mé—mehes remade
Wed-as W Genressed—as
to 13 W in.or more
i-nehes
Femeyede
Metres-owed
14 to 29 in.
'Other ublic
ro ert environmentall
areas‘area historic
corridors
1:2
1:3
Developed lot2 120.
5
New construction3 1215
I .l ..,p ....
pmpesedemndemnaummmmmmma buildin or home exists and will be
retained.
Where a property falls under the of a vacant lot and new construction,the
mitigation requirements for a vacant lot shall apply.
1 Vacant lot shall mean any property not previously developed with a structure of any kind or a
property where all structures were removed more than twenty (20)years prior to the date of the
tree removal application.
2 Developed lot shall mean any parcel upon which
3 New construction shall mean the construction of a new principal building.For the purpos
es
of
this chapter,this definition does not include construction proposed on vacant '..»
definition shall include construction proposed on lots that have an active permit for demolit
ion
of
the principal building;lots where the principal building has been demolished but no building
permit for a new principal building has been issued;and where trees are proposed to be removed
or relocated in preparation for demolition or development of a principal building.
Created:2025—
(Supp.No.L)
X15 2.
83 ’25
Wmlotshis
[EST]
Wefinitions both
sensitive
1n.
Vacant /
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 72 of 91
ED
V(
4 Environmentally sensitive areas shall include lands,waters or areas Within the City of Atlantic
Beach which
Feteeated-ensitershallnot re uire miti ation.Relocated trees that do not survive the three 3
ear maintenance and monitorin eriod under Section 23—34shall be re laced accordin to
the then current miti ation uidelines within sixt 60 da 5 of that determination.
e?25 -£&-—Hr:-6-32-31:29:12Created:2625-“[EST]
5 Historic corridor shall mean a tree lined roadway or portion thereof that exhibits special
historic,architectural,or cultural value to the citizens of the .
”as declared by the
(C)
(d)
(e)
(0
General conditions.Mitigation shall be in the form of preservation of existing
trees,successful relocation of existing trees,replacement with new trees,or payment into
the tree fund as authorized by this chapter shall occur within thirty (30)days,or prior to
issuance of a certificate of occupancy or other final approval if it is in association with a
development permit.The applicant assumes all duties,risks and costs associated with
mitigation.
Tree preservation.Only residentially zoned parcels that currently have an active building
permit for a new principal building may receive preservation credit in accordance with
following.For each existing onsite trees that is a designated maritime species,as defined in
this chapter,and that is ')inches DBH or greater that is preserved onsite,
the total number of inches required for mitigation shall be reduced by twenty-five (25)
percent,up to a maximum reduction of fifty (50)percent or forty (40)inches,whichever is
less.For example,if one hundred (100)inches of mitigation is required and one (1),twenty-
inch DBH live oak tree is preserved on—sitethe required mitigation would be reduced by
twenty-five (25)percent to seventy-five (75)total inches of mitigation required.
Tree relocation.Existing trees onsite that are three (3)inches DBH or greater that are
relocated and that would otherwise be removed from the site because of development
Tree replacement.
(1)Replacement quality and size.To help ensure that they grow to maturity quickly,new
replacement trees shall be the same quality of "Florida Number One",as defined in the
most current edition of the Grades and Standards for Nursery Plants,published by the
Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services,Division of Plant Industry.
(Supp.No.)
|U'1
Wight (8
Cit Commission
rotected
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 73 of 91
p_2/_
.2
ry
TY
ry
QEQ
W4g4)ea?peFDBl-I
nearb
or Florida
Oaks shall have a minimum four-inch and twelve-foot height at time
of installation.
All other new replacement trees shall have a inch
and ten—footheight at time of installation.
Palms shall have a minimum clear trunk height of eight (8)feet at time of
installation.
New replacement shade trees shall be of a species typically yielding an average
mature crown spread of no less than thirty (30)feet in Northeast Florida and shall
be chosen from the Atlantic Beach Recommended Species List.Upon approval of
the administrator,alternate species not appearing on the recommended list may be
utilized,but in no case shall trees from the Atlantic Beach Prohibited Species List,
also maintained and published by the ,be utilized for mitigation credit.
In the event that a property cannot reasonably accommodate required mitigation
on site,the property owner can get replacement credit for planting trees on an
immediately adjacent neighbor's property.For vacant lots only,the property
owner may get replacement credit for planting trees on any private property
within one-quarter (1A)mile of the vacant lot.This shall only be done as an
alternative to payment into the tree fund when it can be proven that a site cannot
fit required replacement plantings.A signed letter from the property owner
accepting ,.
-off-site mitigation plantings and maintenance obligations shall
be attached with the tree permit application.
Atlantic Beach Recommended Species List.Replacement trees shall [be]selected
from the following list.This list was created based on hardiness,disease and pest
resistance,availability,and size variance.No mitigation credit will be approved
for trees that are not on this list,unless approved by the administrator.
CITY OF ATLANTIC BEACH RECOMMENDED TREE LIST
SHADE TREES
Common Name Botanical Name
Ash,Green
Ash,Water
Fraxinus enns lvanica
Fraxinus caroliniana
Ba ,Lobloll Gordonia lasianthus
Cedar,Southern Red Juni erus silicicola
C ress,Bald Taxodium distichum
C ress,Pond Taxodium ascendens
Elm,American Ulmus americana
Hicko
Hicko
Hicko
Hicko
(Supp.No.
,Mockernut Ca a Tomentosa
,Pecan Ca a illinoensis
,Pi nut Ca a labra
,Water Ca a a uatica
)
Created:2625-‘69031':‘—2%—+1+6%:—[EST]
and Red
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 74 of 91
an
GD
0:
\‘ID
”y
nLouatJaane.c Plum Eriobotr a a onica
(Supp.No.)
Created:2625-,V:.69-[EST]
Ma nolia,Southern
Ma nolia,Sweetba
Ma le,Florida
Ma le,Red
Oak,Live
Oak,Shumard Red
Oak,Swam Chesnut
Pine,Lobloll
Pine,Lon -leaf
Pine.Pond
Pine,Slash
Su arbe
Sweet um
S camore
Tu elo
Common Name
Palm,Cabba e
Palm,Canar Island Date
Palm,Pindo
Palm,S lvester Date Palm
Palm,Washin ton
Common Name
Cedar,Red
Cra e M rtle
Elm,Win ed
H011 ,American
Holl ,Dahoon
Holl ,East Palatka
Holl ,Yau on
Oak,M rtle
Oak,Sand Live
Ma nolia randi?ora
Ma nolia Vir iniana
Acer barbatum
Acer rubrum
QuercusVir iniana
Quercusshumardii
uercus michauxii
Pinus taeda
Pinus alustris
Pinus serotina
Pinus elliottii
Celtis laevi ata
Li uidambar st raci?ua
Platanus occidentalis
N ssa s lvatica
PALM TREES
Botanical Name
Sabal almetto
Phoenix canariensis
Butia ca itata
Phoenix s lvestris
Washin tonia robusta
Botanical Name
Juni erus Vir iniana
La erstroemia indica
Ulmus alata
?ex 0 aca
Ilex cassine
Ilex attenuata
Ilex vomitoria
uercus In rtifolia
Quercus eminata
.3"4463.
UNDERSTORY OR ORNAMENTAL TREES
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 75 of 91
%
i
Redbud
Chionanthus Vir inicus
Salix caroliniana
Riverbirch
White Frin etree
Willow Carolina
Bctula ni ra
Cercis canadensis
Wax M rtle M rica cerifera
(2)Selection criteria.
a.All oaks removed pursuant to a permit shall be mitigated with the preservation,
relocation,or planting of oaks,unless payment is made to the tree fund in
accordance with section 23-37.Replacement credit for oaks shall be limited to the
species of oak trees listed on the Atlantic Beach Recommended Species List.
Upon approval of the administrator,hardwood species yielding similar canopy
may be used to mitigate removed oaks.
b.The planting or relocation of palm trees may only be used as mitigation for
removed palm trees.
0.When a Designated Maritime Species is removed,mitigation credit shall only be
given for the planting,preservation,or relocation of a Designated Maritime
Species.This shall not be limited to the exact same species.When a Designated
Maritime Species is removed,at least twenty-five (25)percent of mitigation shall
be provided on site in the form of replacement.Incentive credit shall be granted
for the use of Designated Maritime Species when replacing regulated trees that are
not a Designated Maritime Species.The incentive credit is equal to two (2)times
the normal replacement credit.For example,if one(1),ten-inch DBH southern
magnolia tree is removed,any tree(s)planted for mitigation credit must be one (1)
of the Designated Maritime Species.However,if one (1),ten—inchpalm tree is
removed,any tree planted for mitigation credit that is a Designated Maritime
Species will receive double credit (i.e.one (1),four-inch caliper live oak will
receive eight (8)inches of mitigation credit).
(3)Placement criteria.
a.Avoidance of underground utilities.No trees except those with a normal mature
height of less than thirty (30)feet may be planted within five (5)linear feet of the
centerline of any utility easement.
b.Avoidance ofaboveground utilities and public facilities.No trees may be planted
closer than the following distances to any curbs,curb lines,sidewalks or
aboveground utilities than the following,except for plans demonstrating no
con?ict with existing aboveground utilities or public facilities,and approved by
the administrator:
Created:2625—09
(Supp.No.)
83-25 -23 >1§+932§~1>z29212
5-150
[EST]
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 76 of 91
1.Small trees or palms with normal mature height of fifteen (15)to thirty (30)
feet shall have a minimum setback of three (3)feet.
2.Medium trees or palms with normal mature height of thirty (30)to fifty (50)
feet shall have a minimum setback of six (6)feet.
3.Large trees with normal mature height of fifty (50)feet or more shall have a
minimum setback of ten (10)feet.
c.Spacing.The following spacing requirements shall serve as general guidelines for
the growth and viability of trees
1..trees
of
thirty (30)
feet shall be spaced at least ten (10)feet
ept-ima-I-?beagh—tpemnay—be—planted—eleser—teget—her
I [E I I ..
smauA_ll eralms—with—neFmal—matu-Fe—heightshallbesaced not less than
five 5 feet a art from other trees and be no less than five 5 feet awa
measured from the base .?f-‘éeen—H—SHethCtreefrom homes 001s
drivewa s and other im ervious areas.
2.Medium and lar 6 trees with normal mature hei ht reater than
a art and and not less than 10 feet
from homes or other built structures
Spacing of two (2)or more trees of differing sizes shall be based upon the
spacing requirements of the largest tree.
(Ord.No.95-21—119,§2(Exh.A),7—12-21)
Sec.23-34.Maintenance and monitoring requirements.
The property owner shall be responsible for maintaining the health of any preserved,
relocated or replacement trees for three (3)years from the date of the final inspection approving
the work.Failure to ensure the viability of the tree(s)is a violation of this chapter and subject to
section 23-46.
(1)Determination ofsuccess.The property owner shall analyze the condition of each tree,
three (3)years after the tree was preserved,relocated or planted.This analysis shall be
submitted to the ,for inspection and approval within thirty (30)days of being
made.
Should any tree die or be in a state of decline within three (3)years of being preserved,
relocated,or,the property owner shall be required to replace the tree within sixty (60)
days of that determination.The three—yearmonitoring and approval period shall begin
anew whenever a tree is replaced.If that replacement tree is found not to be viable at
the end of the second monitoring period,the property owner may pay the appropriate
Created:2825-.2 69 [EST]
(Supp.No._)
-‘l.+IL .,:
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 77 of 91
W771"?
P PP
eit-yCity
El"'ll‘III I:
(-H—Plalq?ng—ef—speeies-en—t-he-A-?ant-ieBeaeh-Speeies—EMS CCieSlisted in this section
aeeemedused
(-2-)—nen—Hati’Je-invasivethelisted #enrnemeaden?al-pmpemes-(exeluwng
amount into the tree fund in lieu of planting a third replacement tree.If the property
owner fails to replace the tree or to pay the appropriate amount into the tree fund
within sixty (60)days,the property owner shall be in violation of this chapter.
(2)Large-scale projects.If a permit includes the relocation of ten (10)or more trees,or
the planting of one hundred (100)or more replacement trees,the determination of
success for the overall mitigation effort shall be based upon a percent survival rate.A
successful project shall be one (1)in which ninety (90)percent or more of the newly
planted or relocated trees are determined to be viable after a period of three (3)years.
If a large-scale project is determined to be successful on this basis,additional
replacement trees will not be required.If this success rate is not met,then section 23
—34(1)shall apply.
(Ord.No.95-21—119,§2(Exh.A),7—12-21)
Sec.23-35.Elimination of undesirable species.
(a)Guidelines The natural vegetative communities existing within the shall be
protected by the control and elimination of non—nativeinvasive species.
Prohibited
shall not be for mitigation credit.
Removal of ,4 species
.be completed as a requirement for
approval of any development permit issued by the
invasive species shall
harm
(b)Atlantic Beach Prohibited Species List.The following species or sub—speciesof trees are not
regulated trees under this chapter,and are exempt from mitigation.The trees on this list
shall not be accepted for mitigation credit.
Australian ine casuarina cunnin hamiana
Australian ine thicket casuarina lauca
Bischofia bischofia 'avanica
Brazilian e er schinus terebinthifolius
Cam hor tree cinnamomum cam hora
Carolina laurelcherr runus caroliniana
Carrotwood cu anio sis anacardioides
Castor bean ricinus communis
Catclaw mimosa mimosa i ra
Created:2025-
(Supp.No.)
93 25 32$4472633:
5&9
[EST]
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 78 of 91
’35y:
P
g P
P
p g y
yyg
g rP
P
q q
l
E
_p V 2?"
FY
P
Pa er mulbcrr Broussonetia a rifera
Li ustrum sinensisChineserivet
5-
Chinabe tree
Chinese tallow
Chinese wisteria
Climbin cassia
melia azedarach
sa ium sebiferum
wisteria sinensis
senna endula
Earleaf acacia acacia auriculiformis
Golden Raintree koelreuteria aniculata
Guava sidium ua ava
Jambolan s z ium cimini
Laurel fi ficus microca a
Lead tree leucanea leucoce hala
Melaleuca tree melaleuca uin uenervia
Mimosa tree albizia ’ulibrissin
Orchid tree bauhinia varie ata
Schef?era schef?era actino h lla
Seaside mahoe thespesia nopulnea
Shoebutton ardesia ardisia elliptica
Strawberrv guava sidium cattleianum
Woman's ton ue albizia lebbeck
(Ord.No.95—21-119,§2(Exh.A),7-12-21)
Sec.23-36.Elimination of contagious diseased and pest-infested trees.
The natural and cultivated vegetative communities existing within the shall be
protected by the control and elimination of trees af?icted with rapid-spreading contagious
diseases and pests.Upon identificationand/or confirmation of such infection or infestation by a
certified arborist,the shall give notice to the property owner to remove the af?icted tree.
Such tree removal shall beexemptfrom the permit application requirements,as set forth 1n
section 23—22.Further,mitigation shall not be required,provided however,the subject property
is in compliance with minimum tree requirements,as set forth in section 23—30.
(Ord.No.95-21—119,§2(Exh.A),7-12-21)
Sec.23-37.Payment in lieu of replacement/relocation.
It is the intent of this chapter that all reasonable methods be used to replace or relocate trees
onsite.Payment to the tree fund in lieu of replacement or relocation shall not be construed as a
routine mitigation option.Rather,it shall be reserved for cases where the ability to replace or
relocate trees onsite is restricted by circumstances related to federal,state or local regulations
and requirements including but not limited to con?icts with rights—of—way,utilities,stormwater
facilities,septic fields and environmentally sensitive areas.The value to be paid into the tree
Created:'99
(Supp.No._)
:a—:I»-[EST]2e25-g;
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 79 of 91
and—aéeptedto be not less than the Cit of Jacksonville’8 annual tree
miti ation rate and be reviewed eiPy—eenWssienraHd—pa-y-ment-SESC.Pa ments
DIVISION 5.AREAS OF SPECIAL CONCERN
fund shall be established
by the to the tree fund
may be approved in accordance with the following provisions:
(1)Applications for tree or vegetation removal permits for all uses and development shall
replace or relocate required mitigation onsite,except in cases where the administrator
finds,based upon the above stated conditions,that onsite mitigation is not possible.
Upon approval of a mitigation plan by the administrator,a permit shall be issued by the
administrator,and the remaining balance of the required mitigation shall be payable to
the tree fund prior to permit issuance.
(2)Where payment in lieu of preservation,relocation,or replacement is approved,as set
forth in preceding subsections (1)or (2),the applicant shall pay the equivalent value of
the portion not mitigated,to the .‘
‘
.tree fund.The approved mitigation payment
shall be payable to the tree fund prior to permit issuance.
(Ord.No.95-21—119,§2(Exh.A),7-12-21)
Secs.23-38,23-39.Reserved.
WCH Commission.
(Supp.No.)
Created:2625—89 I ''[EST]
Sec.23-40.Applicability.
There exist within the certain areas which contain trees or vegetation of special
value and concern,or areas of such substantial social,cultural,historical,ecological,
environmental or economic significance that they may warrant added measures of protection.
(Ord.No.95-21-119,§2(EXh.A),7-12-21)
Sec.23-41.Historic corridors and heritage trees.
(a)Designation.The may by resolution designate historic
corridors or individual heritage trees.In doing so,the '.shall
specifically identify those streets,or portions thereof,or trees,whichshallbeso designated.
Trees,tree groups,or landscape groupssodesignatedmaybemarked by signs or markers of
a type to be determined by the;..,‘
_._Said signs or markers shall
contain the words "Heritage Tree"or "HistoricPreservecorridor"and shall denote the date
of designation and the historic significance of the tree,tree group,or landscape group.Upon
designation of corridors,professional tree surveys shall be obtained and placed in the public
record.
historic
colonnade of palms in the .:_':"right—of—wayon the east and west sides of both
Ocean Boulevard and East Coast Drive from Atlantic Boulevard to Tenth Street.
Public
-£3 1}58%;31 :29 .12
5-150
eity—eemmissie?Cit Commission
eit+eemm+ssienCi1Commission
eity15Ciy
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 80 of 91
()
W
V
V J
eneyCity
eityisCity s
2 Public colonnade of alms in the Cit ri ht—of—waon 7thStreet between Ocean
Boulevard and East Coast Drive.
from emeFt—iens—
thereefrherita6sites
Commission
Remeval—is—neeessaw—fmsecialcircumstances to allow a roved te-and74
ref
{5}s 'I'_I.,I‘I .I;
.This exce tion does not include mere]3 referred buildin desi n.
H ¥I
.I _.|'I'I,I ..E l-l3l
(Supp.No.)
Created:2625-2,"69 [EST]
“in,‘
("J
(b)Criteria.In considering whether a tree shall be designated as a heritage tree,the
commission may consider the intrinsic value of the tree due to its age,size,species,and/or
cultural,ecological or historical significance or some other contribution to the g or
a neighborhood's character.
In considering whether roadways or portions thereof shall be designated as historic
corridors,or when a private propertyowner desires to protect a 1 colonnade on private
property,the .,1 may consider the following criteria:
(C)
(1)The presence of historically or culturally significant tree coverage or landscaping,as
individual plants or in groupings.
(2)The presence of significant historic or architectural structures with associated tree
coverage or landscaping.
(3)Requests from private property owners may be made for colonnades on their property.
In the event that colonnades on private property are designated as a historic corridor or
a portion thereof,it shall be the responsibility of the private property owner to record a
restrictive covenant as is necessary to make such designation binding on subsequent
owners of their property.
Documentation.The administrator shall maintain a record of all historic corridor and
heritage tree designations and their location shall be re?ected on ,
‘maps as such.
(d)Mitigation.Mitigation required for the removal of designated heritage trees and trees within
(6)
designated historic corridors,shall be at a higher rate than removal of nondesignated tree(s),
as specified in section 23-33,as an extra measure to strongly encourage protection of such
irreplaceable trees.
Effectof historic corridor designation.Trees,colonnades,and landscape areas
roadways,'
,which have been designated as historic corridors
..
'shall not be damaged,mutilated or removed from public or private property by
any personorentity,public or private,without prior approval of the
,except in the event of an emergency Removal shall be permitted 1n thefollowingconditions:
(1)When safety of the general public or adjacent residents or property is threatened
by such historic trees;or
(2)ingress or egress
from the property
such as "handicap accessibility
5-150
Eve effort should be made to reserve a tree that meets the definition
of a Herita 6 Tree.
eity—
eit—y—eemmissienCitCommission
tree
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 81 of 91
(Ord.No.95—21-119,§2(EXh.A),7—12-21)
Secs.23-42—23-45.Reserved.
DIVISION 6.VIOLATIONS,ENFORCEMENTAND PENALTIES
Sec 23-46.Violations.
Violations by any person of this chapter,including without limitation failure to make proper
application for a tree or vegetation removal permit as required by these provisions,or failure to
implement any requirements or conditions of a tree or vegetation removal permit,shall be
deemed a violation of this chapter,and except as expressly provided in this chapter,shall be
subject to code enforcement procedures as set forth within chapter 2,article V,division 2 of this
Code of Ordinances and any other remedies available under applicable law.
(1)
(2)
(3)
Development activity.It shall be a violation of this chapter for any person(s)to engage
in development or other activity,which has the potential to damage,destroy or remove,
or cause the destruction or removal of any tree or vegetation as regulated herein,
without complying with all applicable provisions of this chapter.
Compliance with approved permit.It shall be a violation of this chapter for any person
who has obtained a permit from the '
,y 'pursuant to the requirements of this chapter
to fail to comply with the requirements of the approved permit and any conditions
attached thereto.
Compliance with general conditions ofpermit.The following minimum conditions
shall apply to every permit issued pursuant to this chapter,and violation of or failure to
comply with any such condition(s)shall be a violation of this chapter:
a.Permit and plans onsite.Approved permits and plans shall be available onsite at
all times during development or tree removal activity.
b.Responsible individual onsite.Whenever site work is ongoing,there shall be an
individual at the site who shall be responsible for the ongoing work and who shall
have the familiarity with the project to ensure work is proceeding according to
approved plans.This provision is not intended to require that a single individual
remain onsite during all operations,only that at all times there shall be a
designated person in responsible charge.
(4)Maintenance requirements.It shall be a Violation of this chapter for any person(s)who
is engaged in development activity on property located within the 1’'or in
accordance with a permit issued by the "
.i :'
‘
pursuant to this chapter,or who has
obtained title to property upon which such activities have taken place,to fail to comply
with the minimum standards and maintenance requirements set forth herein.
(Ord.No.95-21-119,§2(Exh.A),7-12—21)
(Supp.No.
Created:2625—;[EST]
)
83-25 2%1}$3'=31:29:12
5-
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 82 of 91
Wat Mana er
Sec.23-47.Notice of violation.
Whenever the administrator determines that a violation of this chapter has occurred,the
administrator shall immediately issue written notice to the person(s)in Violation,identifying the
nature and location of the violation and specifying that remedial action is necessary to bring the
violation into compliance.The person(s)in violation shall immediately,conditions permitting,
commence remedial action and shall have j seven (7)calendar days after the receipt of
notice,or such time as may be specified in the notice,to complete the remedial actions
required to bring the violation into compliance with this chapter.
(Ord.No.95-21-119,§2(Exh.A),7—12—21)
Sec.23-48.Stop work order.
(a)Authority to stop work.The or designee of the
',shall have the authority to immediately issue a stop work order in any of the
following circumstances:
(1)Whenever land is being cleared without an approved permit or in a manner inconsistent
with the approved permit;
(2)Upon the failure of the permittee,or failure of the property owner if no permit exists,
to take immediate corrective action when there is a danger to life or property;
(3)Whenever ongoing noncompliant work is not immediately and permanently stopped
upon receipt of a written or oral notice of violation;
(4)Whenever protection measures have not been implemented or maintained and danger
to regulated trees or regulated vegetation exists or may be imminent;
(5)Whenever remedial work required by notice of violation pursuant to subsection (a)of
this section is not completed in the time period specified;or
(6)Upon failure to post or have the approved permit and plans available onsite.
(b)Content and scope of stop work order.The stop work order shall specify the circumstances
that have resulted in issuance of the order.It shall also direct that all work be stopped other
than such remedial work as is deemed necessary to bring the Violation into compliance,or it
may specify the cessation of specific work by functional nature,such as land clearing,
regulated tree or regulated vegetation removal,grading,roadway construction,building
erection or utility construction.The order may apply to the entire project or to geographical
portions of the project that may be individually specified.
(c)Failure to comply afternotice ofviolation and stop work order.If the person(s)in violation
fails to complete the required remedial action within the prescribed time,or continues any
development activity in violation of a stop work order,the administrator may initiate code
enforcement action pursuant to chapter 2,article V,division 2 of the Code of Ordinances,or
other remedies as authorized by law.
(Ord.No.95-21-119,§2(Exh.A),7-12-21)
Created:2625-
(Supp.No..)
63-25 Ilia??aiailg‘lZ
5-
[EST]
Mana er
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 83 of 91
(Supp.No.I)
Created:2625-’~.[EST]
Sec.23-49.Requirement for emergency or immediate corrective action.
Where it is determined by the .:that failure to maintain storrnwater management
facilities,erosion,sediment or tree/vegetation protection controls,or failure to conform to the
provisions of this chapter or permit conditions,is resulting in danger or damage to life or
property,the may require immediate corrective action.Protection controls which are
breached due to development activity,wind,rain or other factors shall be repaired within twenty-
four (24)hours of breach.Failure to take such immediate corrective action when notified shall
constitute a Violation of this chapter.If immediate corrective measures are not taken by the
permittee or property owner and the conditions of the site are such that there is danger or
hardship to the public,the :",may enter upon lands,take corrective actions,and place a lien
on the real property of such person(s)to recover the cost of the corrective measures.In addition,
the administrator may revoke any permit issued pursuant to this chapter.
(Ord.No.95—21—119,§2(Exh.A),7-12-21)
Sec.23-50.Code enforcement action.
Failure to complete remedial actions required to bring the violation into compliance with
this chapter shall result in code enforcement action pursuant to chapter 2,article V,division 2 of
the Code of Ordinances as well as other remedies available under applicable law.
(Ord.No.95-21-119,§2(EXh.A),7-12-21)
Sec.23-51.Penalties.
(a)General provisions.Any person(s)violating a provision of this chapter shall be punishable
according to the law or in accordance with the findings of the duly appointed special
magistrate.
(1)Violations of this chapter are considered irreparable and irreversible in nature.
(2)Each day any violation continues shall constitute a separate offense.
(3)Each regulated tree removed from a site in Violation of these regulations shall
constitute a separate offense.
(4)Each acre or fraction thereof,of land cleared in violation of these regulations shall
constitute a separate offense.
(5)Person(s)charged with Violations of this chapter may include:
a.The owner,agent,lessor,lessee,contractor or any other person(s)using the land,
building or premises where such Violation exists.
b.Any person(s)who maintains any land,building or premises upon which a
violation exists.
0.Any person(s)who knowingly commits,takes part,or assists in such Violation.
B?25 -234—1703241~:“3.12
5&50
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 84 of 91
prior
mete—n 510
available hotos
(b)Building permits.No building permit shall be issued for a site while any violation of this
chapter exists on the subject site.
(0)Injunction.Any affected person(s)may seek an injunction against any violation of the
provisions of this chapter and recover from the violator such damages as he or she may
suffer including,but not limited to,damage to property as a result of development or failure
to maintain,in violation of the terms of this chapter.
((1)Sanctions forfailureto obtain a permit.
(1)Regulated trees or regulated vegetation removed in violation of this chapter shall
require an after-the-fact permit,the fee for which shall be two (2)times the normal
established application fee specified in section 23-26.In addition,as a condition of the
permit,the applicant shall immediately complete all remedial work as necessary to
stabilize the site and mitigate all damage to the site and adjacent properties.
(2)Regulated trees removed in violation of this chapter shall be assessed at two (2)times
the normal established rate of mitigation specified in section 23-33.
(3)If a lot,parcel,site or portion thereof,has been cleared such that the administrator is
unable to determine with reasonable certainty the number and size of regulated trees
and/or regulated vegetation removed in violation of this chapter,analysis of ..aerial
photography ..
"or other ,methodology shall be used
to make a determination as to the loss of canopy and/0r land cover for the purpose of
assessing mitigation.A civil fine of .dollars ($.00)per square foot of canopy
or land cover lost ~.,-’be assessed by the administrator,and shall be payable to the
tree fund within seven (7)days of such assessment.No further work or development
shall proceed until the :
'
.1 is in receipt of any such assessed fine.
(4)Any person(s)exhibiting a documented history of chronic or repeated violations of this
chapter shall,upon third offense,be reported to the Florida Department of Business
and Professional Regulation,as well as any other authority governing licensing,
registration or certification of individuals or businesses.
(Ord.No.95—21—119,§2(Exh.A),7-12-21)
(Supp.No.)
Created:2825-‘1 995.:[EST]
DIVISION 7.ENVIRONNIENTALSTEWARDSHIP COMNIITTEE
63-25 ~£3 1158-}.3312942
shaumay
Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
Page 85 of 91
see-
ei-t-
WMWWEnvimnmental
eit-ylsCiy
Wat Commission
Stewardshi Committee
environmentai—stewa-Fdship-eemn?t-teeEnvironmenmlStewardshi
Committee
eemmissienCit Commission
Commission
eemmitiéeeiscommiltee’s
eemmissienCit Commission
eit—y—manage?CitMana er.eit-y—eem??ssienCity
''Commission
eemmitteelsconlmittee’s.w‘.
.u,
Sec.23-55 Purpose.
The maritime forest in Atlantic Beach is core to the identity as a small coastal
village.The tree canopy creates beauty,provides a home for wildlife,functions as an element of
the water management system and enhances property values.It is in the best interest for this
committee to be the stewards of the tree canopy through advocacy,assessment,maintenance,
planting and preservation of this natural resource.The J parks provide open spaces for
recreation,exercise,wildlife habitat,relaxation and encounters with the natural world.This
committee intends to support the community to provide a variety of park spaces that are well
maintained,accessible and secure.This committee shall take the lead and set high community
standards in the beautification and maintenance of public spaces located within the ;::“.The
Atlantic Ocean,the St.Johns River and the Intracoastal Waterway have a great deal of in?uence
on the micro climate,drainage issues and the diverse vegetation and wildlife that thrive within
the ,‘.'.The care and health of the coast and marsh must be paramount in every
recommendation made by this committee about the use of our land,water system and tree
canopy.
()It shall be the purpose of the
To study and make recommendations to the and
1 staff with respect to the
Maritime forest;
Parks,preserves and open spaces;
Beautification of public and private spaces;and
Environmental stewardship.
To act as a motivating and coordinating body to encourage joint public and
private participation in promoting these purposes.
Sec.23 56.Duties and responsibilities.
Scope ofactivities.The
.shall provide guidance,support,and suggest priorities and projects to the _.
.,_..and..._The .
will have an annual joint .j .:,'.and ESC workshop to discuss
the _‘“priorities,suggested projects,and annual workplan.The
will prioritize the work plan related to
these recommendations:
(1)Maritime forest
a.Clarifying and strengthening the processes and all tree and
landscape related codes and ordinances;
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sit-visiysMonitoringtheappropriateadministrationandenforcementofthe
ordinances;
Promoting transparency through online access to relevant information;
Developing and maintaining environmental education and outreach programs
about the maritime forest and relevant codes;
Promoting appropriate planting and care of trees on private property to
owners,developers,builders,and tree/landscape service contractors;
Developing and maintaining a long-term tree plan that includes an
assessment of the tree canopy,projecting future needs,and developing a
calendar and budget for tree planting in parks,public spaces and along streets
and rights-of—way;
Promoting tree canopy advocacy including upholding the status as
a bona fide "Tree City USA;"
Developing a process for systematic,review of the enforcement of
the existing tree codes,including the long-term health of trees planted for
mitigation;and
Developing and maintaining a process for citizens to communicate possible
violations to the
(2)Parks and open spaces
a.Developing and maintaining a long-range plan to protect,improve and
beautify parks,preserves and open spaces;
Improving access to and amenities for parks including disability
accommodations,bike paths,parking,signage and other user friendly
features;
Expanding the inventory of parks and conservation land through
acquisition or other means;and
Maintaining a web-based,publicly accessible inventory of parks including
their history,archeological value,rules of use,deed restrictions and
conservation easements.
(3)Beautification of public and private spaces
a.Enhancing public spaces,including public rights-of—way,roadsides,
buildings,beach accesses and other publicly held properties with art,
carefully maintained landscape design and plantings;
Incentivizing and advocating for beautification of private and commercial
spaces;
Reducing the number and appearance of degraded or blighted public
properties;and
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(1.Developing a design theme/community branding for signage,bus shelters,
lighting and other elements of the built environment.
(4)Environmental stewardship
a.Utilizing best practices,including a science based approach,when making
any decision about development and its impact on our environment;
b.Protecting the beach,dunes,marshlands and wetlands as critical defenses in
hurricane,erosion and ?ooding conditions;
c.Communicating the dynamics of tidal drainage and ?oodplain with the goal
of preserving the .'?ood management system;
(1.Reviewing the environmental codes and ensuring enforcement of
rules including,but not limited to,dumping,septic tanks and commercial
pollution;and
e.Reviewing,updating and maintaining the Marsh Master Plan for adherence
to current research about sea level change and wetlands preservation.
Sec.23-57.City staff administration supports.
Staff will be assigned by the or designee to provide
technical and administrative support.Staff will assist the "by
preparing agendas,proper notice and minutes of meetings,and other administrative
and technical services,as needed.The minutes will be filed with the
_:‘office.
Staff will be responsible for the collection and expenditure of any funds
in accordance with purchasing guidelines.
Sec.23 58.Membership,terms,appointments,geographic requirements,composition.
(a)Membership.The committee shall consist of nine (9)members.The majority of the
filled seats of the committee shall constitute a quorum.Regardless of the number of
committee members in attendance,it shall take an action of the majority of the seats
filled in the affirmative to pass or fail an item.No member of the committee shall
hold any other public office in Violation of Article ‘"i,Section 5(a),Florida
Constitution.
(b)Terms.
‘
All members shall serve three-year terms.Members shall not serve more
than three (3)consecutive three—yearterms on the committee.All terms shall expire
on December 31 of the proper year,provided,however,that members whose terms
expire shall continue to serve until replacement appointments are effective.Any
committee member who wishes to resign should submit a letter of resignation to the
chairman and ::Any vacancy during the unexpired term of an
appointed member shall be filled for the remainder of the term.Should the length of
Created:2825-69-23 11:63:32 [EST]
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Agenda Item #5.B.
11 Feb 2026
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(I
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resilience
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tel—Gamma»—e Ca acit and com osition re uirements.The evaluation and
recommendations of otential members to the Commission will be based on a
defined candidate criteria matrix includin how well the res ective candidate
demonstrates the skills ex erience ex ertise and educational back round
documented in the Com osition section below.
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the unexpired term be less than one (1)year,then such appointment shall not count
towards the maximum number of consecutive terms.
(0)Appointments.Committee members shall be recommended by the board member
review committee and shall be approved by the commission.
((1)Geographical requirements.There shall be at least one (1)member representing
each district on the .Each committee member must be a
full time resident of the *
.or own real property in the ‘'..For the purpose
of this section,full time residency shall be defined as the person's principal place of
abode.Any member must immediately notify the -
'_.:,and chair in writing upon no longer meeting the membership
qualifications.
To the extent possible,committee members should demonstrate at least one (1)of the
following skills,experience,expertise,educational background or interests:
Knowledge of best practices in environmental management and
sustainability;
Land development and building construction;
Urban planning and design;
Arboriculture and horticulture;
Landscape architecture;
Environmental policy;
Environmental law;
Community engagement;and
Educational programming.
(t)Procedures and rules;,of
__.The shall schedule no more than two (2)monthly
meetings in the or other public
venue.
,Special meetings may be called by the or
designee,with at least a forty—eight(48)‘notice.
(3)7Allmeetings of the shall be properly noticed and open to the
public.
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(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)
(8)
The .
'and each member shall comply with the Florida
Government 1n theSunshineLaw,Florida Code of Ethics for Public Officers and
Employees,Florida Public Records Law,and related provisions of the
Code of Ordinances and applicable resolutions,as may be amended from time to
time.
The -shall elect a chair and vice-chair at the regularly-
scheduled meeting in January each year.
In all cases involving points of parliamentary law,"Robert's Rules of Order"
shall be the book of reference,and its rules,so far as they are applicable and not
in conflict with the provisions of the ,.'“:'Charter,Code,or other
ordinances,shall be the rules of this .
1 The committee shall establish a tree subcommittee in accordance with
subsection (h)below.The tree subcommittee shall develop and recommend
policies,programs,education,and incentives aimed at preserving,protecting,and
enhancing the ."tree canopy.
The committee shall not create subcommittees
(g)Removal ofmembers.Any member on the committee may be removed for cause by the
upon written charges and after public meeting.Any
member who fails to attend three (3)ESC meetings in three (3)consecutive months
without prior notice to the director of planning and community development or his/her
designee and without reasonable cause shall have their seat declared vacant by the
committee.The vacancy shall be promptly reported to the and filled
by the ,
(h)Establishment of membership,terms.
(1)There is hereby established a 1:2 of the
(Supp.No.51)
,referred
to in this subsection as the subcommittee.The subcommittee shall systematically
review tree permits submitted to the ,1 for completeness and to determine
compliance with the provisions of this chapter23as more particularly descri
bedinthissubsectionThesubcommitteeshallproducea''’
e .report
on tree permitting process.The subcommittee shall consist ofthree (3)
membersandone (1)alternate member.The alternate shall serve in the case of the
absenceofany of the three(3)members.The members of the .
’may volunteer to serve on the subcommittee and shallbeappointedtothesubcommitteebythe""'‘-''“
,
5 All,
of the members of thesubcommittee shall bemembers ofthe
The .'g .
'shall appoint
or remove the members ofthe subcommitteebyasimple majority vote.Filling
vacancies shall take place at the next regular scheduled meeting of the
after a seat on the subcommittee has
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WenmentaLstewaFdsth-eemmitteeESC
treesubeemmitteeTree Subcommittee.
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tree-subeemmitteeTree Subcommittee
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become vacated.Members of the subcommittee may serve for as long as they
serve on the
(2)Organization of
a.The shall establish a regular meeting
schedule of the
b.The administrator or designee shall attend all meetings of the subcommittee.
A -.
’staff member designated by the 5 shall act
as clerk for the subcommittee.The clerk shall be responsible for the clerical
administration of the subcommittee.The clerk shall also be responsible for
the maintenance and preservation of all records of the subcommittee in
coordination with the ,,..,
,office.
c.The subcommittee shall utilize the rules of the
.Robert‘s Rules of Order shall be followed to conduct
meetings.All meetings shall be open to the public.The subcommittee shall
keep minutes of the proceedings,recording the vote of each member upon
each question or if absent or failing to vote,indicating such facts.It shall
keep records of its examinations and other official actions,all of which shall
be promptly filed with the '''office and shall become
public record.The subcommittee will operate in compliance with Florida's
Government in the Sunshine Laws.
Sec 23-59.Liability to
The shall consider the recommendations proposed
by the ,.,but nothing in this section or
otherwise shall be construed as authorizing or empowering the to
impose any liability of any nature,financial or otherwise,upon the ,without
approval.
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