Mangrove Trimming

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.

On December 19, 2001 the Monroe County Commission adopted an ordinance “prohibiting the owners of real property from causing, suffering or permitting trees or other vegetation from their property to interfere with vessels traveling upon navigable canals.”  This ordinance requires canal front property owners to keep their shoreline vegetation (including mangroves) trimmed back to the canal bank, and calls for prosecution of violations as misdemeanors, punishable by fines up to $500 or up to 60 days imprisonment.

Prior to this, trimming of mangroves required a permit from the Department of Environmental Protection, which BBECA acquired several years ago. The volunteer mangrove trimming team went through the canals on a barge to assist property owners. If you need assistance trimming your canal front trees, call the Association president to find out if a trimming project is planned or can be initiated.