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Invasive Plant Rules

Atlanta's Invasive Plant Rules: The Rules That Matter

By CityRuleLookup Editorial Team

Every city handles invasive plant rules a little differently. In Atlanta, Georgia, there are 2 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Prohibited Species

Atlanta's vegetation code names kudzu and Chinese wisteria as regulated "weeds" and bars letting them grow past 12 inches on abandoned or vacant lots, backed by notices, city abatement, and liens.

Key details: Regulated species named: Kudzu, Chinese wisteria. Height limit: 12 inches. Applies to: Abandoned or vacant lots. Repeat-violation penalty: $250 then $500. Enforcement: Bureau of Neighborhood Conservation.

Unabated weeds draw a written notice giving 20 days to comply; the city can then abate and bill the owner, with a lien plus 8% annual interest if unpaid. A second notice within 12 months adds a $250 penalty, a third adds $500, and repeat cases can go to the city attorney for injunctive relief.

Tree-of-Heaven Removal

Atlanta classifies Tree of Heaven as an invasive species under its tree ordinance. Removing one 6 inches DBH or larger still requires a city arborist permit, but skips the replacement and recompense fees healthy trees owe.

Key details: Permit trigger: 6 inches DBH or greater. Governing section: Atlanta Code § 158-47. Replacement/recompense: Not required for invasive removals. Public posting: Not required. Permit validity: 6 months, extendable once.

Removing a regulated tree without the required permit is enforced as an illegal tree removal under Chapter 158, which can trigger recompense and fines calculated per DBH inch under Sec. 158-86(b), separate from the invasive-species exemption that applies only to permitted removals.

The Bottom Line

Atlanta's invasive plant rules rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Atlanta is broadly strict or permissive.

This guide is based on Atlanta's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.