ST. JOHNS COUNTY, Fla. – St. Johns County commissioners recently discussed proposed changes to local tree ordinances aimed at enhancing tree preservation and regulating land development.
The Growth Management Department presented proposals that included preventing the removal of all trees on properties exceeding one acre and increasing the required conservation of natural vegetation in planned unit developments (PUDs) from 5% to 20%.
“We cannot continue on the path of clear-cutting like we have been doing,” Commissioner Ann Taylor said.
Clearcutting refers to the practice of removing all trees in an area, often leaving the land barren for extended periods.
County Chair Krista Jospeh illustrated the issue of clearcutting during the meeting, presenting slides that showed the consequences of such practices.
“I have a series of slides from clearcutting. This was in 2022. 207 Deerfield preserve, and it was clear cut in 2023. It is still clear cut in 2024. And it is still sitting there, February 7th, 2025,” she said, emphasizing the long-term impact of such actions.
Currently, there are sites in St. Johns County that are being developed, visually demonstrating the impact of tree removal.
Commissioners and residents expressed concerns about the economic impact of these regulations.
Commissioner Murphy questioned whether the new requirements would burden property owners, while Commissioner Arnold emphasized the need to balance environmental protection with property rights. Austin Nicholas from the Northeast Builders Association said they were not consulted on the tree ordinances.
Public sentiment largely favored stronger tree preservation measures.
But Taylor highlighted the urgency for better communication.
“People need to know ahead of time before a bulldozer is right outside their kitchen window,” Taylor said.
The commissioners agreed to send the proposals to INSPIRE, a consulting group, for further analysis. The agenda item concluded with a 3-2 vote.
