When Do I Need a Tree Removal Permit? And Who Handles That?

If you’re a first-time homeowner, live in a historic neighborhood, or just haven’t dealt with tree removal before, you may be wondering what legal responsibilities you have during the process. The experts at Premier Tree Services are here to break it down!

City of Atlanta 

Within the city of Atlanta, permits are required by the Tree Conservation Commission, a citizen board appointed by the Mayor and City Council Members. The mission of this board is to “assist in the protection, maintenance, and regeneration of the trees and other forest resources of Atlanta.” 

Operating under the Atlanta Tree Ordinance, the Tree Conservation Commission’s site for removal permits lists requirements for the following: 

Public Property

You need a permit to remove, destroy, or injure any tree on city-owned property, regardless of size. 

Private Property

You need a permit to remove, destroy, or injure any tree of 6 inches or greater diameter-at-breast-height (DBH) on private property. There are no exceptions, either by species or present condition. 

Dead and Dying Trees

You need a permit to remove dead and dying trees from private property. These permits can be obtained free of charge by contacting the Arborist Division.” 

The application for removal is available here. If you are unsure whether your tree (or your property) qualifies, we can help you through the permitting process. Though we won’t be able to guarantee your permit will be approved by the city, we can provide inspection, consultation, and advice. 

Outside of Atlanta 

If you’re considering tree removal outside Atlanta, we recommend you check in with your city or county government offices to determine whether or not a permit is necessary, and how requirements may differ from those for Atlanta. 

  • In Roswell, GA, for example, an application is required for trees larger than 3” in diameter. 
  • The City of Decatur also has a Tree Canopy Conservation Ordinance, under which “property owners in residential zoning districts are allowed to remove up to 3 healthy, protected trees during an 18 month period.” A permit still must be filed with the City, to help track removal and consider potential replanting.
  • Private single-property homeowners of Marietta, GA, are not required to have a permit for tree removal, though the City’s Code of Ordinances spells out several restrictions for commercial and multifamily properties. 
  • Forsyth County just recently revised its Tree Protection and Replacement Ordinance, though they do not require a permit if residential property owners are interested in removing a tree. 
  • Norcross, GA’s Code of Ordinances meanwhile clearly states that “No person, corporation or association shall remove or destroy any tree either on public or private property with a DBH of six inches or greater without having first obtained a tree removal permit from the Community Development Department.” 

There are several other areas we serve that may have different tree removal permit requirements. If you’re in a location not listed here (or are simply still scratching your head over how, when, where, and why you might need a permit), call us at 404.252.6448 or reach out to us online for inspection and advice.

Best Places in Georgia for Leaf-Peeping

Autumn is just a few weeks away. Time for flannels, turtlenecks, pumpkin-flavored everything, and, of course, the changing of both light and leaves. 

Though determining the exact dates for peak fall foliage in Georgia isn’t an exact science, on average you can expect them toward the end of October and early November, when warm sunny days are coupled with chilly (but not freezing) temperatures in the evening. 

Once that combination becomes consistent, strike out to these destinations to experience some striking fall color. 

Brasstown Bald 

Georgia’s tallest mountain might be at the top of your list this year. Brasstown Bald provides dramatic views at any season, but especially in the fall. The paved Summit Trail leads from the parking area to the Visitor’s Center, and is only a 0.6 mile hike, but is also very steep. The park provides shuttle service daily as an alternative. Can’t make the trip? Live streaming webcams are also available. 

Cloudland Canyon State Park 

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources dramatically describes this park as “Home to thousand-foot deep canyons, sandstone cliffs, wild caves, waterfalls, cascading creeks, dense woodland and abundant wildlife.” Providing multiple stunning overlooks, Cloudland Canyon is also equipped with opportunities for horseback riding, fishing, picnicking, mountain biking, disc golf, and several overnighting options. 

George L. Smith State Park 

For a more unusual fall foliage experience, enjoy the deep orange of cypress trees reflecting off this park’s blackwater pond. Pack a thermos of cider and visit the refurbished Parrish Mill and Pond, originally built in 1880 with a combination gristmill, sawmill, covered bridge and dam.

Tallulah Gorge State Park, Tallulah Falls 

Whether you’ve visited before or are brand-new to this state park, you’ll be glad you took in the waterfalls and scenery of what Explore Georgia describes as “One of the most spectacular canyons in the eastern U.S.” Permits are required to access the gorge floor, but a suspension bridge swings 80 feet above the river, and there are several other activities as well. 

Unicoi State Park & Lodge 

If you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a little bit of both, Unicoi State Park and Lodge may fit the bill. With zip lines, hiking, paddle boarding, fly fishing, archery, scavenger hunts, plus a restaurant and lodge, you’ll find something for everyone — including breathtaking views of both foliage and falls. 

Victoria Bryant State Park 

Perhaps you’ve never heard of this secret Georgia gem, but if there’s a golfer in your family, you may want to add it to your list of fall destinations. The Highland Walk Golf Course is a beautiful—but challenging—course, while the stream and two hiking trail options will provide enjoyment for everyone else after tee time. 

No matter where you are in Georgia, you can experience a spectrum of color by looking out for red oaks, sweetgums, eastern redbuds and others right in your own backyard. And Georgia’s State Parks offer an online “Leaf Watch,” where others post their most fabulous fall finds. To care for your trees during this change of season — no matter their color — reach out to us online or give us a call at 404.252.6448.