City of Atlanta Tree Removal: Rules, Permits, and What Residents Need to Know

Tree removal in the City of Atlanta is not as simple as hiring a crew and cutting a tree down. Atlanta has one of the most detailed urban tree protection ordinances in the country, and many trees on private property are legally protected. If you live in Atlanta, are buying a home here, or are dealing with a hazardous tree, it’s important to understand how the process works locally.

How Tree Removal Works in the City of Atlanta

In Atlanta, most tree removal requires a permit, even on private property. The city’s Tree Protection Ordinance applies inside city limits and is enforced by the City of Atlanta Arborist Division (part of the Department of City Planning).

Key ideas to keep in mind:

  • The city regulates trees by size, not just location.
  • You usually cannot remove a healthy tree that meets certain size thresholds without approval.
  • Unpermitted tree removal can lead to significant fines and required replacement or recompense payments.

If your address is in the City of Atlanta (not just “Atlanta” in your mailing address), these rules likely apply to you.

Which Trees Are Regulated in Atlanta?

Atlanta’s rules are based on the diameter at breast height (DBH) — the trunk diameter measured about 4.5 feet from the ground.

Protected Trees (General Rule of Thumb)

On a typical single-family residential lot inside the City of Atlanta:

  • Most trees 6 inches DBH or larger are considered protected.
  • Very small trees, saplings, and certain ornamental species under that size may not be regulated.
  • Street trees and trees in the public right-of-way are almost always protected.

Because the ordinance is technical and can change, the most reliable step is to check with the Arborist Division before cutting any tree that looks mature.

When You Need a Tree Removal Permit in Atlanta

You will almost always need a City of Atlanta tree removal permit if:

  • The tree is 6 inches DBH or greater and:
    • It’s healthy and you want it removed for construction, views, or aesthetics.
    • It’s dead, dying, or hazardous, and you want official authorization.
    • It’s on a property that is subject to development, additions, or major renovations.
  • The tree is in the public right-of-way, near a sidewalk, street, or city-owned property.
  • Your project involves grading, building, or adding structures close to existing trees.

There are some emergency and exemption scenarios (for example, a tree that has already fallen in a storm), but you still may need documentation from the city afterward.

When a Permit May Not Be Required

Permit exemptions are limited and can change, but in general, a permit may not be required when:

  • The tree is clearly less than the protected size.
  • You are only performing routine pruning that:
    • Does not severely impact the tree’s structural stability.
    • Does not effectively “top” or destroy the tree.
  • You are removing low shrubs or small ornamental plants, not regulated trees.

Because fines for illegal removal can be costly, many Atlanta homeowners choose to call the Arborist Division or a certified arborist to confirm whether a permit is needed.

Who Oversees Tree Removal in Atlanta?

Within city limits, tree regulations are handled by:

City of Atlanta Arborist Division
Atlanta City Hall / City Planning Department
55 Trinity Ave SW
Atlanta, GA 30303
Main City Information: (404) 330-6000
(Ask to be connected to the Arborist Division.)

The Arborist Division:

  • Reviews tree removal permit applications.
  • Issues “dead, dying, and hazardous” (DDH) tree approvals.
  • Conducts site visits and inspections.
  • Enforces violations and penalties under the Tree Protection Ordinance.

Hazardous, Dead, or Dangerous Trees

If you have a tree that is leaning, splitting, dropping large limbs, or clearly dead, Atlanta has a specific process for that.

DDH (Dead, Dying, Hazardous) Trees

You will typically need:

  1. Assessment

    • Contact a certified arborist to inspect the tree, or
    • Request an inspection from the City of Atlanta Arborist Division.

  2. Documentation

    • Photos showing decay, cavities, fungal growth, or structural failure.
    • A statement or report from an arborist can help.

  3. City Review / DDH Approval

    • If the city agrees the tree is dead, dying, or hazardous, it may issue a DDH approval which functions as permission for removal, often with reduced or no recompense fees, depending on circumstances.

Emergency Situations

If a tree has already fallen or is posing an immediate threat to life or property (for example, on a house or blocking a driveway):

  • You may remove it as an emergency, prioritizing safety.
  • It is still wise to:
    • Take clear photos before and during removal.
    • Keep invoices and documentation.
    • Notify the Arborist Division as soon as reasonably possible, especially if a large regulated tree was involved.

In life-threatening situations, call 911. For dangerous but non-emergency utility line issues, contact Georgia Power or the relevant utility provider.

Applying for a Tree Removal Permit in Atlanta

Basic Steps for Homeowners

  1. Confirm You’re in the City of Atlanta

    • Look up your property in the City of Atlanta GIS / property records or review your tax records.
    • If your property is in another jurisdiction (e.g., DeKalb County, Fulton County outside city limits, Sandy Springs), different tree rules apply.

  2. Consult With a Certified Arborist or Tree Service

    • Many residents start with a certified arborist who:
      • Evaluates tree health.
      • Measures DBH.
      • Helps prepare documents for a permit.
    • Be sure the company is familiar with City of Atlanta tree rules, not just metro-area practices.

  3. Gather Required Information Commonly needed details include:

    • Address and property owner information.
    • Tree location(s) on the lot (often on a simple site sketch).
    • Species and DBH for each tree.
    • Reason for removal (e.g., construction, DDH, too close to foundation).
    • Photos, if requested.

  4. Submit Application to the Arborist Division

    • Applications may be submitted online, by email, or in person, depending on the city’s current process.
    • Check with the Arborist Division or City Planning Department for the most up-to-date submission options.

  5. Wait for Review and Approval

    • An arborist from the city may:
      • Review the application.
      • Request additional details.
      • Visit your property for inspection.
    • After approval, you may receive a permit or official notice authorizing removal and any conditions (such as replacement or recompense).

  6. Post and Keep Permit On-Site

    • Some permits must be posted visibly during removal.
    • Contractors often need to show proof of permit if questioned by inspectors.

Tree Recompense and Replacement in Atlanta

Atlanta’s ordinance is designed to preserve the city’s tree canopy, so when healthy protected trees are removed, the city often requires recompense.

What Is Tree Recompense?

Recompense usually means one or more of the following:

  • Planting new trees on your property (meeting specific size and species standards).
  • Paying into the city’s Tree Trust Fund, used for planting and maintaining trees elsewhere in Atlanta.
  • A combination of planting and payment, depending on how many and what kind of trees you remove.

The exact amount of recompense depends on:

  • The size and type of tree removed.
  • Whether removal is for construction or another reason.
  • Whether the tree is considered dead/dying/hazardous or healthy.

Construction, Renovations, and Tree Protection

If you’re planning a new build, addition, driveway, or major renovation in Atlanta, trees become a central part of permit review.

Trees and Building Permits

For development projects, you may need:

  • A tree survey/plat showing:
    • All protected trees.
    • DBH, species, and location.
  • A tree protection plan, indicating:
    • Which trees will be preserved.
    • Protective fencing and root zone protections during construction.
  • A recompense calculation if any trees are removed.

The City of Atlanta Arborist Division will often review building and grading permits to ensure trees are handled according to the ordinance.

Public Trees, Street Trees, and Sidewalks

Trees in the public right-of-way (between the sidewalk and street, or near curbs and city streets) are often considered public trees.

Important points:

  • Do not remove or heavily prune street trees on your own.
  • The city, or in some cases a utility, is responsible for certain maintenance and removal decisions.
  • If roots or branches are damaging a sidewalk, curb, or underground utilities, contact:
    • The City of Atlanta Department of Public Works, or
    • Your utility provider (for utility conflicts).

Tampering with public trees without permission can result in fines and enforcement actions similar to unauthorized removal on private property.

Typical Tree Removal Costs in Atlanta (What to Expect)

Actual costs are set by individual companies, but Atlanta residents often find that prices depend on:

  • Tree size and height
  • Access (tight backyards, near power lines, over structures)
  • Risk level (close to houses, leaning over roofs, difficult rigging)
  • Stump grinding or removal needs
  • Hauling and debris cleanup

Because city rules are strict, many homeowners expect to:

  • Pay more for complex, hazardous, or large specimen trees.
  • Potentially pay additional recompense to the city beyond contractor fees if healthy protected trees are removed.

Requesting multiple written estimates from insured, reputable tree services familiar with City of Atlanta requirements can help you understand a fair price range.

How to Choose a Tree Service in Atlanta

When looking for a tree removal company inside Atlanta city limits, consider:

  • Familiarity with the City of Atlanta Tree Protection Ordinance
    Ask directly whether they handle permit applications or assist with the process.

  • Credentials and Insurance

    • Certification by a recognized arborist organization.
    • Proof of liability insurance and workers’ compensation.

  • Local References

    • Experience working in neighborhoods similar to yours (Grant Park, Buckhead, West End, Kirkwood, Midtown, etc.) can indicate familiarity with tight spaces and local enforcement.

  • Written Estimates and Scope

    • Clear description of:
      • Which trees will be removed.
      • Whether stump grinding is included.
      • Cleanup expectations.
      • Who is responsible for obtaining or showing the city permit.

What Happens If You Remove a Tree Without a Permit?

In the City of Atlanta, unauthorized removal of protected trees can lead to:

  • Fines and penalty fees
  • Required recompense payments to the Tree Trust Fund
  • Potential stop-work orders on construction projects
  • Delay or complications in future permits for your property

If you bought a property where previous owners removed trees without permits, issues can sometimes surface during renovation or permitting. Keeping copies of permits and approvals is helpful for future reference.

Key Contacts for Atlanta Residents

Use these as starting points (verify current numbers and office hours before visiting):

City of Atlanta – General Information
Phone: (404) 330-6000
Ask for the Arborist Division or Department of City Planning.

City of Atlanta City Hall
55 Trinity Ave SW
Atlanta, GA 30303

For hazardous trees affecting power lines or electrical service:
Georgia Power – Customer Service (check your bill for the current number).

For trees tied to sidewalks, curbs, and streets:
City of Atlanta Department of Public Works
Accessible via the main City Hall line or the city’s general information channels.

Practical Tips for Atlanta Homeowners and Renters 🌳

  • When in doubt, ask first. A quick call or consultation can prevent expensive violations.
  • Document everything. Photos and notes before and after tree work can be useful if questions arise.
  • Keep permits and approvals. Store them with your property records.
  • Plan ahead for projects. Tree review can add time to your building or renovation schedule.
  • Prioritize safety. If a tree looks dangerous, contact a professional or the city promptly.

Understanding how tree removal works in the City of Atlanta helps you protect your property, respect local laws, and support the city’s canopy that gives Atlanta its “city in the forest” character.