As a homeowner in Central Florida, your trees are valuable assets that provide shade, beauty, and increased property value. However, trees can also become liabilities when they’re damaged, diseased, or structurally compromised. At We Do It All Trees & Landscape, we’ve helped countless property owners throughout Polk and Hillsborough Counties identify and safely remove hazardous trees before they cause damage or injury.
Knowing when a tree needs removal isn’t always obvious, especially to untrained eyes. This guide will help you identify the warning signs that indicate your tree may need professional removal, understand the risks of ignoring these signs, and navigate the permit process in Central Florida.
7 Warning Signs Your Tree May Need Removal
1. Significant Lean or Recent Change in Angle
While some trees naturally grow at an angle, a sudden lean or one that has recently developed is cause for concern. This often indicates root damage or instability in the tree’s foundation.
What to look for:
- A tree that suddenly leans after a storm
- Soil heaving around the base of the tree
- A lean of more than 15 degrees from vertical
- Cracks in the soil near the tree’s base
Robert from our team recently responded to an emergency call in Lakeland after a 40-foot tree had shifted dramatically following a heavy rainstorm. “The homeowner noticed the tree was suddenly leaning toward their house. We removed it the same day, and when we examined the root system, it was severely compromised from recent flooding. This could have resulted in catastrophic damage had it fallen.”
2. Multiple Dead or Hanging Branches
A few dead branches can be normal and may only require proper trimming. However, if more than 25% of the tree’s branches are dead or hanging, this could indicate a serious health issue.
What to look for:
- Branches with no leaves during growing season
- Brittle, easily broken branches
- Multiple hanging or broken limbs
- Branches that have already fallen around the tree
3. Trunk Damage and Decay
The trunk is the lifeline of your tree. Significant damage or decay here often means the tree’s structural integrity is compromised.
What to look for:
- Vertical cracks or splits in the trunk
- Large sections of missing bark (not just small pieces)
- Soft, crumbly wood
- Fungal growth on the trunk
- Large cavities or hollow sections
In Hillsborough County, we frequently encounter oak trees with extensive trunk decay due to improper pruning techniques used years earlier. These wounds become entry points for decay organisms that gradually hollow out the trunk, often invisible until the tree fails during a storm.
4. Root Problems
Root issues can be harder to spot but are among the most serious problems trees face, especially in Florida’s sandy soils.
What to look for:
- Fungi or mushrooms growing around the base
- Exposed, damaged, or decaying roots
- Recent construction that may have severed roots
- Signs of root lifting or soil heaving
- Dead branches starting at the top of the tree (indicates root problems)
5. Pest Infestations or Disease
Central Florida trees face numerous pest and disease challenges that can ultimately require removal.
What to look for:
- Unusual leaf drop or discoloration
- Holes in the trunk or branches with sawdust-like material
- Insect activity around the trunk or branches
- Cankers or unusual growths on branches or trunk
- Wilting or dying sections despite adequate water
“We recently handled a severe case in Valrico where a homeowner’s pine trees were infested with bark beetles,” shares our arborist. “By the time they noticed, the infestation had spread to neighboring trees. Early detection could have saved several trees in their landscape.”
6. Signs of Internal Decay
Trees can appear healthy on the outside while suffering from internal decay that compromises their structural integrity.
What to look for:
- Conks or shelf mushrooms growing on the trunk
- Carpenter ants or termite activity
- Hollow sound when tapping the trunk
- Cavities or hollows visible in damaged areas
- Cracks that extend into the wood
7. Location Issues and Hazardous Positioning
Sometimes a tree’s location, rather than its health, necessitates removal.
What to look for:
- Trees growing too close to structures or foundations
- Trees interfering with power lines
- Roots damaging sidewalks, driveways, or underground utilities
- Trees blocking necessary access to your property
- Multiple trees growing too close together, causing competition
The Dangers of Ignoring Tree Hazards in Central Florida
Florida’s unique climate creates specific risks when it comes to hazardous trees:
Hurricane and Storm Risks
Florida’s hurricane season brings high winds and saturated soils, creating perfect conditions for tree failure. Trees with existing issues are significantly more likely to fall during storms, potentially causing:
- Damage to homes, vehicles, and other structures
- Injury to people or pets
- Power outages from downed lines
- Blocked emergency access
- Additional expense and hassle when removed under emergency conditions
Lightning Strike Vulnerability
Central Florida is the lightning capital of the United States, with more strikes per square mile than anywhere else in the country. Trees damaged by lightning may not show immediate signs of failure but can develop serious structural issues over time.
Rapid Decay in Florida’s Climate
Our warm, humid climate accelerates decay processes. What might progress slowly in other regions can advance rapidly here, causing trees to deteriorate faster than many homeowners expect.
When to Call a Professional Tree Service
While some tree issues can wait, others require immediate professional attention:
Emergency Situations Requiring Immediate Action
Contact a professional tree service immediately if you notice:
- A tree leaning toward your home, especially after a storm
- Large hanging limbs over areas where people walk or park
- Trees touching power lines
- Cracked or split trunks following storms
- Sudden leaning with soil upheaval at the base
Our 24/7 emergency tree service is available throughout Polk and Hillsborough Counties for situations that can’t wait.
Benefits of Professional Assessment
Even when the situation isn’t an emergency, professional assessment offers several advantages:
- Expertise in Tree Biology: Professional arborists understand how trees grow, respond to damage, and show signs of decline.
- Safety Evaluation: Professionals can assess the risk level more accurately than untrained observers.
- Treatment Options: Sometimes removal isn’t necessary, and treatments or proper trimming can save the tree.
- Proper Equipment: Professional services have specialized tools to safely handle tree removal without property damage.
- Insurance Protection: Reputable services carry insurance to protect your property.
Tree Removal Permits in Central Florida: What You Need to Know
Before removing trees in Central Florida, it’s important to understand local permit requirements, which vary by location:
Polk County Tree Removal Regulations
Polk County has specific regulations regarding tree removal on residential and commercial properties:
- Permits are generally required for removing trees over a certain size (typically 4 inches in diameter at 4.5 feet above ground)
- Protected tree species have additional restrictions
- Exemptions may exist for dead or hazardous trees, but documentation is often required
- Fines for unpermitted removal can be substantial
Hillsborough County Tree Removal Regulations
Hillsborough County has its own set of regulations:
- Grand trees (those over 34 inches in diameter) have special protections
- Permits are required for most tree removals
- Hazardous tree exemptions exist but require proper documentation
- Replacement trees may be required depending on the circumstances
“We recently helped a Lithia homeowner navigate the permit process to save them over $300,” shares our team member. “We walked them through applying for the permit themselves rather than having us handle it, which was a significant savings while ensuring they remained compliant with local regulations.”
At We Do It All Trees & Landscape, we’re familiar with the permitting requirements across all the areas we serve and can help you navigate this process correctly.
DIY Tree Assessment: What You Can Do Before Calling a Professional
While professional assessment is always recommended for potential tree hazards, there are steps homeowners can take to monitor their trees:
Regular Visual Inspections
Perform these simple checks regularly, especially after storms:
- Walk around your trees looking for changes or damage
- Check for leaning or soil upheaval after heavy rains
- Look for dead branches or areas without leaves during growing season
- Inspect the trunk for wounds, cavities, or fungal growth
- Note any changes in the tree’s appearance or condition
Document Changes
If you notice potential issues:
- Take dated photos to track changes over time
- Make notes about when you first observed the issue
- Monitor how quickly changes progress
- Share this documentation with tree professionals when they assess your tree
Safe Distance Precautions
If you suspect a tree might be hazardous:
- Keep children and pets away from the area
- Don’t park vehicles beneath the tree
- Avoid spending time under or near the tree during windy conditions
- Consider temporarily roping off the area if there’s an immediate concern
What to Expect During Professional Tree Removal
When you hire a professional service like We Do It All Trees & Landscape for tree removal, here’s what you can expect:
Assessment and Planning
- Professional evaluation of the tree and surrounding area
- Discussion of removal options and potential challenges
- Clear explanation of the process and timeline
- Written estimate for the work
The Removal Process
- Setup of safety perimeters
- Strategic cutting to control the tree’s fall
- Careful removal of branches and sections
- Protection of surrounding landscape features
- Complete cleanup of debris
After Removal Options
- Stump grinding to remove the remaining stump
- Wood chip repurposing for mulch or removal
- Recommendations for replacement tree planting if desired
- Site preparation for new landscaping
Preventative Measures: Keeping Your Trees Healthy
The best way to avoid tree removal is to maintain healthy trees:
Regular Professional Maintenance
- Schedule periodic inspections by certified arborists
- Maintain proper tree trimming schedules
- Address minor issues before they become major problems
- Follow professional recommendations for tree care
Proper Tree Selection and Planting
- Choose tree species well-suited to Central Florida’s climate
- Plant trees with adequate space for mature growth
- Consider proximity to structures, utilities, and other trees
- Follow proper planting techniques to encourage strong root development
Storm Preparation
- Have trees inspected and pruned before hurricane season
- Remove dead or weakened limbs that could become projectiles
- Consider cables or bracing for valuable trees with structural issues
- Know who to call for emergency tree services
Why Choose We Do It All Trees & Landscape for Your Tree Concerns
As a family-owned business serving Polk and Hillsborough Counties since 2013, we bring a unique combination of expertise, reliability, and personal service to every job:
- Local Experience: Our team understands Central Florida’s unique tree challenges and regulations
- Comprehensive Services: From assessment to removal to stump grinding and new tree planting
- 24/7 Emergency Response: Available when storms or unexpected situations create hazards
- Licensed and Insured: Professional service with proper protection for your property
- Customer-Focused Approach: We treat your property as if it were our own
- Satisfaction Guaranteed: Our job isn’t done until you’re completely satisfied
Our team, led by Robert Warren, has earned a reputation for fair pricing, quick response times, and exceptional cleanup after every job. As one recent customer from Lakeland shared: “They did such a great job cutting down some dead limbs, and the cleanup was great. Highly recommend!” – Becky Scott, May 2024
Take Action Before It’s Too Late
Don’t wait until a storm turns a hazardous tree into an emergency. If you’ve noticed any of the warning signs mentioned in this article, contact We Do It All Trees & Landscape for a professional assessment. Our experienced team serves Lakeland, Valrico, Lithia, and surrounding areas throughout Polk and Hillsborough Counties.
Call or text us today at (813) 588-0120 for a free estimate, or request an estimate online. Remember, when it comes to potentially hazardous trees, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
