If you’re a Florida homeowner or a tree service provider, you’ve probably heard whispers about House Bill 1159. But what exactly is this bill, and how does it affect you? Let’s dig into the roots of this legislation and uncover its far-reaching implications for tree management in the Sunshine State.
The Birth of HB 1159: A New Era for Tree Management
Effective July 1, 2019, House Bill 1159 sprouted from a need to streamline tree management processes for Florida property owners. Gone are the days of wrestling with a forest of paperwork just to trim a troublesome tree. This bill aims to clear the path for homeowners to address potential hazards without getting tangled in red tape.
Related Blog: https://gbatreeservice.com/understanding-house-bill-1159-impact-on-tree-services-florida/
Key Changes Brought by HB 1159
- Local Government Restrictions: The bill clips the wings of local governments, prohibiting them from requiring notices, applications, approvals, permits, fees, or mitigation for pruning, trimming, or removing trees on residential property.
- Documentation Requirements: Don’t reach for that chainsaw just yet! The bill still requires documentation from a certified arborist or licensed landscape architect to prove that a tree poses a significant risk.
- HOA Exemptions: While local governments have their hands tied, Homeowners Associations (HOAs) can still require architectural reviews or replacement tree plantings.
The Ripple Effect on Property Owners and Tree Services
For property owners, HB 1159 is like a breath of fresh air. No more navigating through a jungle of permits and fees to address potentially hazardous trees. This streamlined process not only benefits homeowners but also allows tree service providers to operate more efficiently.
However, with great power comes great responsibility. The bill raises concerns about potential over-removal of trees, which could have adverse environmental effects. It’s crucial to strike a balance between safety and conservation.

The Role of Certified Professionals
While HB 1159 doesn’t directly address licensing, it underscores the importance of certified professionals in tree management. For instance, in Broward County, tree trimmers must have a UF/IFAS Broward County Tree Trimmer Certification or be ISA Certified Arborists until July 1, 2025.
Why is certification so important? Certified arborists and landscape architects are trained to:
- Accurately assess tree health and risk
- Provide proper documentation as required by HB 1159
- Ensure that tree removal is only done when absolutely necessary
The Historical Context: Why HB 1159?
To understand the motivation behind HB 1159, we need to look back at Florida’s tumultuous history with trees:
- The Citrus Canker Crisis: This disease outbreak highlighted the need for quick action in tree management.
- Hurricane Irma in 2018: The aftermath of this storm emphasized the importance of addressing storm-damaged trees promptly.
- The 2019 Hurricane Season: This further reinforced the need for homeowners to quickly mitigate tree-related hazards.
These events collectively painted a clear picture: Florida property owners needed more autonomy in managing potentially dangerous trees on their land.
Legal Clarity in the Sunshine State
HB 1159 brings a ray of legal sunshine to the sometimes murky waters of tree management. By clearly delineating the roles of local governments and property owners, the bill aims to protect homeowners’ rights while ensuring responsible tree management.
What This Means for You
If you’re a Florida homeowner:
- You have more freedom to manage trees on your property
- You must still obtain proper documentation before removing trees
- Your HOA may still have tree-related regulations
If you’re a tree service provider:
- You can operate more efficiently without navigating multiple local permits
- Ensure you’re properly certified to provide the necessary documentation
- Be prepared to educate clients about the importance of responsible tree management

The Environmental Balancing Act
While HB 1159 offers numerous benefits, it’s essential to consider the environmental impact. Trees play a crucial role in Florida’s ecosystem, providing shade, reducing energy costs, and supporting wildlife.
To maintain this delicate balance:
- Only remove trees when absolutely necessary
- Consider planting replacement trees when removal is unavoidable
- Educate yourself and others about the importance of urban forests

Conclusion: Branching Out into a New Era
House Bill 1159 represents a significant shift in Florida’s approach to tree management. By simplifying the process for property owners and tree service providers, it aims to create a more efficient and responsive system for addressing potential hazards.
However, with this newfound freedom comes the responsibility to act wisely. As Floridians, we must strive to balance safety concerns with environmental stewardship. By working together – property owners, tree service providers, and local communities – we can ensure that Florida remains the lush, green paradise we all know and love.
Remember, when in doubt, always consult with a certified arborist or licensed landscape architect. They’re your best resource for navigating the intricacies of HB 1159 and ensuring that your tree management practices are both legal and environmentally responsible.
So, Florida, let’s embrace this new era of tree management. With HB 1159, we have the tools to create safer communities while preserving our state’s natural beauty. It’s time to branch out and grow into a greener, more harmonious future!