Mangroves

Mangroves

The 1996 Mangrove Trimming and Preservation Act (sections 403.9321-403.9333, F.S.) defines a mangrove as any specimen of the species Laguncularia racemosa (white mangrove), Rhizophora mangle (red mangrove) or Avicennia germinans (black mangrove). The Mangrove Act does not distinguish between living and dead mangroves, so the same trimming regulations apply to each.

Mangroves are important for many reasons, and mangrove trimming is regulated under the Mangrove Act. Mangroves serve as a key ecological component in several ecosystems, including serving as a nursery for many game and sport fisheries. For more information about mangroves, their adaptations, and their importance to both the environment and people, please see our YouTube video, Identification and Ecological Functions of Mangroves or the Mangrove Trimming Guidelines for Homeowners.

Applications to Trim or Alter Mangroves 

DEP district offices and delegated local governments are responsible for processing applications for mangrove trimming or alteration activities.  

Please contact your local district office with any mangrove trimming questions. Mangrove Trimming Applications may be submitted to the district offices directly at the email addresses provided below.

Mangrove Coordination

The Submerged Lands and Environmental Resources staff located in Tallahassee coordinate the implementation of this program for the department, district offices and delegated local governments. This includes interpreting and providing guidance on the statutory language, providing oversight of local governments that have been delegated to implement the program, and reviewing applications from persons who wish to be designated as professional mangrove trimmers. 

Please send requests to become a professional mangrove trimmer (PMT) to SLERC@FloridaDEP.gov.