Click here to see the Mangrove Trimming Permit.
Mangroves are a natural part of our tropical environment, but when they proliferate on canal banks and interfere with navigation, they can be a serious problem. Monroe County Code of Ordinances (Section 26-4) prohibits property owners from “causing or permitting trees to interfere with vessels upon any manmade water body" and requires canal front property owners to keep their shoreline vegetation (including mangroves) trimmed. A hazard is defined as “vegetation extending by more than ten percent of the overall width of the water body.” Violations are punishable by fines up to $500 and/or up to 60 days imprisonment.

We encourage all property owners to trim their property on the canals to allow for the safe passage of boats. The trimming of mangroves requires a permit from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, which BBECA acquired and can be viewed below. The permit covers all properties on the interior canals but does NOT include open water lots/houses.  Owners of open water property can apply for and receive permission to trim by contacting the DEP in Marathon at 305-289-7070. 

If property owners have further questions, contact Paul Gerson, BBECA board member at 305-872-2780 or [email protected].

Florida DEP Mangrove Frequently Asked Questions
Monroe County Code of Ordinances/Chapter 26 Waterways
Monroe County & DEP Contacts
PROFESSIONAL MANGROVE TRIMMERS
-  State Authorized PMTs
-  PMT Status Through Professional Certifications