How Brookhaven Handles Landscaping Rules: A Practical Guide

Brookhaven maintains 40 local ordinances across all categories, and 4 of those deal specifically with landscaping rules. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Brookhaven falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Tree Trimming

Brookhaven's tree ordinance (Ch. 14, Art. III, §14-50+) prohibits pruning trees in a way not consistent with ISA/ANSI A300 standards. Trees 4+ inch DBH are protected. Pruning must not adversely affect tree health. Permits required for significant pruning near protected trees. Chapter 14, §14-55 covers tree protection during construction.

Key details: Ordinance: Ch. 14, Art. III (§14-50+). Pruning Standard: ISA/ANSI A300 required. Prohibited: Topping; excessive canopy removal. Protected Tree Size: 4 inches DBH or greater. Construction: §14-55 protection during construction.

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

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Brookhaven actively enforces its tree trimming requirements.

Water Restrictions

Brookhaven receives water from DeKalb County Watershed Management. Georgia Water Stewardship Act (2010) outdoor watering schedule applies. During EPD drought declarations, Level 1–4 restrictions limit or prohibit outdoor watering. Check DeKalb County Watershed for current status.

Key details: Water Provider: DeKalb County Watershed Mgmt.. State Law: GA Water Stewardship Act (2010). Even Addresses: Tue/Thu/Sat. Odd Addresses: Wed/Fri/Sun. Drought Restrictions: EPD Level 1–4 apply.

First violation: warning. Second: $100 to $250. Third: $500+. Water service restriction possible during severe drought.

Tree Removal & Heritage Trees

Brookhaven requires a permit for removal of ANY tree 4+ inches DBH (Ch. 14, §14-50). Maximum 2 live, healthy trees removed per 18-month period for residential. $0 permit fee for owner-occupied single-family homes; $25 for others. Apply via brookhavenga.gov Project Portal.

Key details: Ordinance: Ch. 14, Art. III, §14-50. Protected Trees: 4 inches DBH or larger. Residential Limit: Max 2 live trees per 18 months. Permit Fee: $0 owner-occupied SFR; $25 others. Apply At: brookhavenga.gov (Project Portal).

Unpermitted tree removal is a code violation requiring canopy replacement and potential fines.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Brookhaven actively enforces its tree removal & heritage trees requirements.

Grass Height Limits

Brookhaven requires residential properties to maintain grass and vegetation at a reasonable height. Excessively high grass and weeds are a code violation. Code Enforcement (404-637-0500) issues notices with a compliance period before citations are issued.

Key details: Max Height: 12 inches (general standard). Notice Period: Compliance period before citation. City Mowing: May mow and bill owner. Code Enforcement: 404-637-0500 or Code@BrookhavenGA.gov.

First notice: 7 to 14 days to comply. City abatement: $200 to $500 billed to owner. Lien placed for unpaid abatement.

The Bottom Line

Brookhaven is tougher than many cities when it comes to landscaping rules. Out of the 4 rules covered here, 2 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Brookhaven, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

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