That big oak or pine next to your house may have been there for decades, but trees grow — and so do the risks. A tree too close to your house can damage your roof, crack your foundation, clog your gutters, and become a serious hazard during storms.

How Close Is Too Close?

As a general rule for Central Florida:

• Small trees (under 30 feet tall): at least 10 feet from your house
• Medium trees (30-70 feet): at least 20 feet from your house
• Large trees (over 70 feet, like mature live oaks): at least 30 feet from your house

These are minimums. The bigger the canopy and root system, the more distance you need.

Warning Signs the Tree Is a Problem

• Branches touching or scraping the roof during wind
• Roots lifting your driveway, walkway, or foundation
• Leaves and debris constantly clogging your gutters
• The trunk leans toward your house
• Large limbs hang directly over the roofline
• You can see root damage to underground pipes (slow drains, sewer backups)

Trimming vs. Removal

Not every close tree needs to come down. A professional tree trimming can reduce the canopy, remove risky limbs, and create safe clearance from your roof. Crown reduction and directional pruning keep the tree healthy while reducing risk.

However, if the tree is leaning, diseased, has major root damage, or is simply too large for the space, removal may be the safest option.

Foundation and Root Damage

Tree roots in Central Florida can extend 2 to 3 times the width of the canopy. Large trees near your house can crack foundations, break sewer lines, and lift concrete. If you see cracking in your foundation or heaving in your driveway, tree roots may be the cause.

Get a Professional Assessment

DeAngelos Land Services provides free tree risk assessments across Lake Mary, Sanford, Orlando, Deltona, and Central Florida. Our certified arborists will evaluate the tree and give you honest options.

We are BBB A+ rated, Google Guaranteed, and backed by 211+ five-star reviews. Veterans receive a 10% discount.

Call (386) 675-2303 or request a free estimate today.