AFFORDABLE TREE REMOVAL SERVICE IN Fernandina Beach, FL

What Are the Most Common Tree Issues in Fernandina Beach?

Perhaps the most pressing tree issue in the Fernandina Beach area is the presence of invasive plant and insect species. One such non-native plant is Paederia foetida, which is commonly referred to as skunkvine. This vine’s stems can grow over 35 feet long. Skunkvine damages native trees by covering them and blocking out the sunlight. In addition, the weight of some skunkvines is so heavy that a covered tree will topple over during heavy rain or wind. 

As its name suggests, skunkvines emit a strong, unpleasant odor that some people liken to sewage. This plant is native to Asia and was brought to Florida in the 1800s as a potential fiber crop. It’s clear by their invasive presence that skunkvine is not easy to eliminate. The plant must be pulled out by its roots or treated with an herbicide.

And one invasive insect that poses a threat to the area’s citrus trees is the Asian citrus psyllid, which can create a condition called citrus greening. When these pests infect a citrus tree, the fruit becomes green, misshapen, and bitter. While citrus fruit is synonymous with Florida, only a few cold-hardy varieties will actually grow this far north. Satsumas, mandarins, and Meyer lemons will do well throughout Nassau County – if you can keep the Asian citrus psyllids at bay. Unfortunately, most infested trees will die within a few years. Homeowners who grow their citrus fruits are advised not to transport these fruits and instead consume them at home. 

Does the City of Fernandina Beach Provide Any Assistance in Tree Removal Problems?

The city prioritizes the preservation of its trees. It states that “All healthy, non-invasive trees measuring five (5) inches or greater in diameter at breast height (DBH) are protected trees within the City.” Fernandina Beach does require a tree removal permit. Permits are issued if the tree “is dying, diseased, or hazardous to property.” In most cases, removal is considered a last resort. The city may recommend measures to preserve a tree or refer the homeowner to a certified arborist, like Tree Triage. The city’s Department Of Planning & Conservation issues tree removal permits and can be reached at 904-310-3480.

If a tree needs to be removed as part of a construction project, you do not need to fill out a separate tree removal permit. You can indicate these types of tree removal requests on the general building permit application.

The city may remove “dangerous” trees if a homeowner does not act in a timely manner. According to Section 42-1 of Fernandina Beach’s ordinances, the city will notify the owner in writing that a tree on their property has been deemed “dangerous.” If the homeowner does not remove the tree within the specified time frame, the city will remove the tree and place a lien on the property. 

Who Is Responsible For Fallen Tree Removal in Fernandina Beach?

The vast majority of homes in Fernandina Beach are owner-occupied, at 75%. This is a noteworthy statistic because homeowners are ultimately responsible for fallen tree removal. And according to local attorneys, it’s the location of the tree’s trunk – and not the branches – that determines ownership. Once in a while, we come across a tree whose trunk grows on more than one person’s property. These trees are called “boundary trees.” All property owners share equal responsibility for any boundary trees that are in their yards. 

While it’s difficult to account for every single tree issue that may arise, here are some guidelines for who is responsible for fallen tree removal in Fernandina Beach.

If you’re a homeowner?

If the fallen tree grew in your yard, you’re responsible for removal. This is true even if the tree landed off of your property, like in the road or on your neighbor’s patio. If one of your trees fell, your first call should be to your homeowner’s insurance. Most policies have some coverage for fallen trees, especially for weather-related causes.

If you’re a renter?

Unless your lease agreement explicitly states that you are responsible for fallen tree removal, it’s not your responsibility. Even if you take care of routine lawn chores like mowing or raking, tree removal is typically considered above and beyond these tasks.

One exception to this is if you did something to cause the tree to fall. In that case, your landlord may turn to you to help cover the bill. And, you may also be in hot water with the city as a permit is required for tree removal. If you remove a tree without a permit, you might be responsible for replacing the tree and have to pay a fine.

If you’re a landlord?

If you’re a landlord, you own the property, so you are responsible for any tree removal. If you manage the property but do not own it – as is the case with a property manager – the responsibility lies with the property owner.

If you’re a neighbor?

If your neighbor’s tree falls in your yard, they are responsible for removing it off of your property. Hopefully, they will act quickly. If you and your neighbor cannot resolve a tree dispute on your own, you should turn to the City Commission for help.

How Does the Soil Affect Trees in Fernandina Beach?

In 1987, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) conducted a comprehensive soil survey of Nassau County. This survey revealed that there are numerous soil types found throughout the county. These soils vary greatly in terms of clay content, pH levels, and drainage. Before you plant any new trees, you may want to talk with our certified arborists. 

Portions of the city lie within a flood zone, and many forms of root rot favor high-moisture soil. Pine trees in this area are especially susceptible to annosum root rot. While this is an endemic problem in northern Florida, incidences of annosum increase after the thinning and harvesting of forest stands.

Does Weather Affect Tree Health in Fernandina Beach?

Fernandina Beach is in USDA Plant Hardiness Zone 9a. That means that the “extreme minimum temperature” residents could expect to experience in the winter is 20 to 25 degrees. Any trees that are planted here must be able to thrive in this plant hardiness zone. Trees that are native to the area will always fare better than growing trees from other parts of the country. 

Trees near the coast are always susceptible to tropical storm wind damage. However, there are some actions that homeowners can take to protect their trees. Research has proven that certain forms of pruning can prevent wind damage. In addition, selecting a storm-resistant tree variety is important. Palm trees, live oaks, spruce pine, and gumbo limbo have been proven to withstand severe weather in northeastern Florida.

What if Dead Trees Are Near Power Lines in Fernandina Beach?

Removing a dead or dying tree that is near a power line is not a DIY task! Keep everyone, including yourself, safe and give us a call. We work with the local utility companies to ensure that tree removal is conducted in a secure manner.

We know that nothing is more nerve-wracking than waiting for your neighbor’s dead tree to fall. If a tree on someone else’s property looks like it’s going to fall onto the power line, you can contact Florida Public Utilities. If you think the tree falling is imminent, you may also call the Fernandina Beach Police Department. They can send someone out to block off the area and will contact the utility company. 

How Much Does Tree Removal Usually Cost in Fernandina Beach?

You can expect tree removal in Fernandina Beach to cost between $469 and $640, with an average of $554. Keep in mind that the prices we estimate here do not include taxes or permit fees, and your total may be significantly higher, sometimes up to or over $1,500. Much of the price of removal depends on the tree’s circumference and height. But other factors will affect the final price tag.

Stump Removal

The price of our tree removal services in Fernandina Beach typically does not include stump removal. After we cut a tree down, you have three options for what you want to be done with the stump: leave it as-is, pull the stump out of the ground, or grind the stump down. 

It won’t cost you anything extra to leave the stump as-is, but this option is not always practical. Grinding the stump is the cheapest removal option while pulling it out of the ground will cost you more. The average cost for stump grinding in Fernandina Beach is $99.

Overall Tree Health

A strong, healthy tree typically costs more to remove than a sick or dying one. So while it’s sad to have to remove a tree that’s succumbed to annosum root rot, at least it will be easier on your wallet. And if you ever need us to remove a fallen tree off of your property, you can expect to pay less than if we had to cut the tree down ourselves.

Tree Accessibility

In some city lots, getting our equipment to the tree can be a tight squeeze. We also have to protect surrounding trees, buildings, pools, sidewalks, and roadways. So if you live in one of the densely populated neighborhoods off of Will Hardee Road, you may pay a little more for tree removal.