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 Activities that will result in the alteration or removal of native vegetation must obtain an approval to do so prior to vegetation clearing activities. Most development projects will receive this approval when they go through the County’s Development Review Officer (DRO) Process. However, for those projects that do not have to go through the DRO Process, an approval must be obtained from ERM. This would include the following types of projects:
Whether a project receives an approval through DRO or from ERM to remove native vegetation, the ultimate goal of the approval process is to limit the amount of native vegetation removed, implement preserve set-asides if applicable, facilitate the maintenance of tree canopy in Palm Beach County, and ensure the removal of prohibited invasive non-native vegetation. Native vegetation that is removed is required to be relocated on site, offered up for donation, or mitigated. Mitigation is the actual replacement of native vegetation canopy lost to development with Florida Number One or better natives. This is accomplished by incorporating mitigation on site in the Landscape Plan, off site to a public entity, or through a voluntary contribution to the “Palm Beach County Natural Areas Fund”. Native trees that are mitigated on public lands in Palm Beach County could include but are not limited to parks, public schools, libraries, public management tracts, and natural areas. Mitigation in this manner must include acceptance and a clear understanding of vegetation maintenance responsibilities for both parties until the mitigated vegetation is self sustaining. Mitigation through voluntary contribution to the “Palm Beach County Natural Areas Fund” is utilized for purchasing, enhancement, and maintenance of large tracts of natural areas throughout Palm Beach County. To find out more about Palm Beach County’s Natural Areas, click here. The cost per mitigation tree is determined annually by an average cost for purchase, installation and maintenance of the tree for one year. Prices are adjusted annually to reflect market conditions. REQUIRED DOCUMENTS FOR ERM’S “PROTECTION OF NATIVE VEGETATION" APPROVAL * PROJECTS NOT SUBJECT TO THE DRO PROCESS*
TECHNICAL RESOURCES
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 Coastal Resources |
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Lakes,
Estuaries and Lagoons |
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Mosquito Control |
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Natural Areas |
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Permitting and Regulation |
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