Mangrove Trimming and Protection Act Highlights
An inspection by the City’s Natural Resources staff is ALWAYS required prior to trimming mangroves.
However, certain mangrove trimming activities may not require a permit. These “exemptions” may be granted by the Natural Resources Department following proper notification and an on-site inspection. An exemption will only be granted for trimming of mangroves within the "riparian fringe"--a band of mangroves along a shoreline that is no more than 50 feet from the most landward trunk to the most waterward trunk.The height of the mangrove tree within the riparian fringe is critical in determining whether trimming is allowable.
To qualify for an exemption to trim within the riparian fringe, mangroves:
- Less than 6 feet in height may not be trimmed
- Between 6 feet and 24 feet in height may not be trimmed more than 25% in any one year AND may not be trimmed to a height of less than 6 feet
- More than 24 feet in height may not be reduced in height; however, 25% of the lateral foliage may be reduced annually
- More than 10 feet in height may only be trimmed by a Professional Mangrove Trimmer
Permits
To alter or trim mangroves outside the riparian fringe, a permit from the City Planning Department is required.
Professional Mangrove Trimmers (PMT)
Mangroves greater than 10 feet in height may only be trimmed by a Professional Mangrove Trimmer (PMT). The state has delegated to the City of Sanibel the authority to set standards for the certification of Professional Mangrove Trimmers. To become certified, a contractor must already hold a valid vegetation contractor's Certificate of Competency and, in addition, must pass a special test establishing familiarity with the City and State mangrove trimming and preservation standards.