Gulf Shores, Ala. — (OBA) — In a lengthy and sometimes emotional discussion, the Gulf Shores City Council voted Monday to reduce a $1,500 fine levied against a homeowner for removing trees without a permit—while signaling possible changes ahead for the city’s tree protection ordinance.

Homeowner Kevin Walker appealed the fine after removing trees on his lot at 1449 East Fairway Drive before receiving a building permit. While staff initially recommended upholding the full fine and denying a request to remove an additional pine tree under relaxed rules, the council disagreed.

Citing a tree survey and clear building plans already in place, council members voted to define Walker’s lot as “developed,” allowing a 1:1 tree replacement instead of the usual 6:1. They also reduced the fine to $750, acknowledging his effort to follow the rules despite a premature start.

The decision prompted a broader conversation about how to enforce tree protections fairly while supporting reasonable residential development. Staff confirmed that revisions to the ordinance—including a clearer definition of “developed lot”—are already in the works.

“This ordinance has done a lot of good,” one council member noted, “but we’re still learning how to make it work fairly in every case.”