Acworth's Landscaping Rules: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles landscaping rules a little differently. In Acworth, Georgia, there are 4 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.

Tree Removal & Heritage Trees

Acworth Ch. 73 + 2024 Tree Ordinance — tree removal permits required for significant removals. Licensed contractor with $500K per-incident insurance required. Specimen trees preserved; replacement plan required.

Key details: Ordinance: Ch. 73 + 2024 Tree Ordinance. Contractor Insurance: $500K per-incident + $2M general liability. Specimen Trees: 1.5x DBH credit for preservation. Replacement: Tree Replacement Plan required. Apply: Development Dept: 770-974-2032.

Unauthorized removal of protected trees subject to citation and restoration requirements.

Water Restrictions

GA Water Stewardship Act (2010) year-round restriction: no irrigation 10 AM–4 PM daily. Acworth served by Cherokee County Water/Allatoona Supply. EPD drought Level 1–4 restrictions escalate during declared drought.

Key details: Year-Round Restriction: No irrigation 10 AM – 4 PM daily. State Authority: GA Water Stewardship Act (2010). Water System: Cherokee County Water or Cobb County Water (depends on location). Drought Levels: EPD Level 1–4 escalating restrictions.

First offense: written warning. Second: $100 fine. Third: $250. Drought emergency violations: $500 and possible service restriction.

Grass Height Limits

Acworth Code Ch. 52 (Nuisances) / Ch. 98 (Vegetation) — overgrown yards are a code violation. 12 inches is the standard threshold. Code Compliance gives 3-day notice; fine up to $1,200.

Key details: Typical Max Height: 12 inches. Ordinance: Ch. 52 (Nuisances) + Ch. 98 (Vegetation). Compliance Window: 3-day notice before citation. Fine: Up to $1,200. Report: codecompliance@acworth-ga.gov.

3-day notice; citation up to $1,200 if not corrected.

Tree Trimming

Acworth homeowners may trim trees on private residential property without a permit. Tree ordinance (Ch. 73/98) focuses on development-related removal and specimen tree protection.

Key details: Trimming Permit: Not required for routine maintenance. Tree Ordinance: Ch. 73 + Ch. 98 (Tree Ordinance 2024). Development Removal: May require permit. Contact: Development Dept: 770-974-2032.

Unpermitted removal: $500 to $5,000 per tree. Replacement planting required. Civil liability for damage to neighbor's trees.

The rules around tree trimming in Acworth lean permissive, but that does not mean anything goes.

The Bottom Line

Acworth's landscaping 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 Acworth is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Acworth's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.