Miami Tree Protection Bond Guide
The City of Miami, Florida requires a tree permit and tree protection bond for anyone performing development work that impacts protected species. Learn how they work and get a free quote with this guide.
Bond Overview
- Purpose: To preserve protected trees during development projects
- Who Needs It: Developers working on land containing protected trees
- Regulating Body: The City of Miami
- Required Amount: Varies depending on value of the affected trees
- Premium Rates: Usually 1–3% of the bond amount, credit-based
What Is a Miami Tree Protection Bond?
Miami tree protection bonds guarantee the preservation of specific trees in development projects. This type of surety bond is required under Section 17-2 of amended city code to receive a tree permit. If bonded trees are harmed, the surety reimburses the city for losses.
How Much Do Tree Protection Bonds Cost in Miami?
Your bond amount will be equal to the value of the specimen trees being removed, worked around or relocated. With good credit, you can expect to pay a rate of 1–3% of the total bond amount.
These bonds are subject to surety underwriting so prices will vary depending on credit score. Apply now to get your free quote.
SuretyBonds.com offers the lowest available rates from our nationwide provider network with no fees.
How Does a Miami Tree Protection Bond Work?
A tree protection surety bond creates a financial guarantee by binding three parties in a legal contract:
- Principal: The developer or contractor performing work involving protected trees
- Obligee: The State of Miami requiring the bond
- Surety: The provider issuing the bond
As the principal, you are responsible for paying financial damages to the city if you harm a tree. The surety will validate and pay claims on the bond up to the coverage limit. However, you must pay the surety back for claims.
Who Needs a Tree Protection Bond?
The Miami Tree Protection Ordinance requires anyone working on a construction project that requires a tree permit to file a surety bond equal to the value of the specimen trees to remain and/or be relocated.
This includes all non-exempt development work including the following:
- Tree removal on public property or the public right-of-way
- Work involving mangrove trees
- Projects involving trees in natural forest communities, environmental preservation districts or wetlands
If you need a payment and performance bond as well, visit our Florida Contractor License Bond Guide to apply.
How Do I Get a Tree Protection Bond in Miami?
SuretyBonds.com provides the fastest and easiest way to get a Miami tree protection bond. Make you have the following information from the city to complete your online application:
- Tree permit number
- Address of the permit location
- Species of tree(s)
- Tree number(s)
- Individual bond amount for each tree
- If married, spouse’s date of birth, SSN and email for indemnification
Just complete our quick request form to get started. A surety expert will contact you within one business day or less to provide your no-obligation invoice.
How Fast Can I Get My Bond?
We process most bonds in 24 hours or less. Purchase your bond today and select from overnight, two-day or three-day FedEx shipping options.
Upon receipt, sign and file the physical bond form with the city at the address below:
City of Miami
Department of Building
444 SW 2nd Avenue, 4th Floor
Miami, FL 33130
Attention: Environmental Resources Division
How Do I Renew My City of Miami Tree Protection Bond?
Tree protection bonds are valid for one year. Your bond must remain in effect until the building permit number is issued and finalized and the trees are inspected by an arborist. Then, the City will provide a written release of the bond.
If you need to renew your bond for an additional year, simply pay your renewal invoice when prompted. We’ll begin contacting you 90 days before your bond expires with reminders and a new invoice.
The surety can also cancel the bond at any time by providing 30-days written notice to the City of Miami.
