FAQs
What is Chapter 10?
Chapter 10 of the Hernando County Code contains the County's Community Appearance Regulations, including standards related to landscaping, tree preservation and protection, buffers, land clearing, irrigation, invasive plants, and fences.
Why is the County rewriting the entire chapter?
The proposed changes are extensive enough that the draft would repeal the current Chapter 10 and replace it with a reorganized, updated chapter. The rewrite is intended to improve clarity and enforceability, reflect current practices and state law, and establish standards that support sustainable growth and community character.
Where would the proposed regulations apply?
In general, the draft applies to development in unincorporated Hernando County that requires site plan, construction drawing, subdivision, planned development project, or rezoning approval. The draft contains specific exemptions and qualifications, so readers should review the proposed ordinance for details.
Will this change the rules for homeowners removing dangerous trees?
The draft recognizes the residential-property provisions of Florida law. It states that qualifying pruning, trimming, or removal of a tree on residential property does not require County notice, application, approval, a permit, a fee, or mitigation when the property owner has documentation meeting the requirements described in the draft and state law.
What subjects are included in the proposed rewrite?
The draft addresses general applicability; landscaping; tree surveys, retention, protection, and mitigation; buffers; street trees; land-clearing permits; landscape plans; irrigation; prohibited invasive plants; alternative compliance and administrative deviations; enforcement; and fence standards.
Has the ordinance been adopted?
No. The document is a proposed ordinance and remains subject to public input, staff review, revision, and action by the Board of County Commissioners.
What has happened so far?
County staff previously presented proposed Chapter 10 changes on March 3, 2026. Because the current proposal is more extensive, the Board discussed the repeal-and-replacement draft and received public comment on August 4, 2026.
What happens next?
The County will host a public town hall and community roundtable on August 20, 2026. Staff will review community input, and the proposed ordinance is scheduled to return to the Board of County Commissioners for an advertised public hearing on September 1, 2026. Meeting dates and materials are subject to change; check the County's official calendar for updates.
How can I participate?
Attend the August 20 hybrid meeting either in person or via an online meeting portal, submit comments through the engagement page, and participate in the advertised BOCC public hearing. Comments submitted before the town hall may be grouped by topic and addressed by staff during the discussion.
Where can I read the draft ordinance?
On Engage Hernando under the documents tab includes the draft ordinance and the official agenda item.
Who can I contact for more information?
Email: Planning@HernandoCounty.us
Phone: (352) 754-4057