Australian Pines, commonly referred to as A. Pines, are a tropical evergreen tree native to Australia, the South Pacific Islands, and Southeast Asia.

Australian Pines can grow up to 150 feet tall, consist of needle-like-branches in a grayish/green color with reddish brown to gray trunk and bark.

Australian Pines have an aggressive growth rate and are classified as an invasive exotic species as they hinder the growth of native vegetation.

Australian Pines also lose branches easily and topple in high winds due to shallow root systems. Root systems also encourage beach erosion by displacing deep-rooted vegetation and interfere with nesting of endangered species.

Information gathered from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission & the University of Florida Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plants.

The Town of Longboat Key authorizes the reimbursement of Australian Pine removals to qualifying property owners up to:

• $1,800 for those that could impact Gulf of Mexico Drive
• $1,250 for all other roads, buildings, and utilities
• Five (5) qualifying removal incentives annually

The Town has designated an annual maximum cap of $60,000 for the Australian Pine Removal Program.

Property owners interested in the program are encouraged to fill out a Request for Reimbursement Form.

All signed applications must be returned to the Town of Longboat Key’s Public Works Department for review and consideration. All applications shall be reviewed on a first-come first-serve basis.

Town staff shall inspect all subject properties and Australian Pines in determining eligibility based on potential impacts to roadways, buildings, structures, water & sewer lines, above and/or underground utilities.

Applications may be mailed, or delivered, to the Town’s Public Works Department located at:

Town of Longboat Key
Public Works Department
600 General Harris Street
Longboat Key, FL 34228

For further questions or to obtain a copy of the Application, please contact 941-316-1988.

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