Landscaping Rules in Decatur, GA: What Residents Actually Need to Know

If you live in Decatur or are thinking about moving there, landscaping rules are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Decatur has 4 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of landscaping rules, and some of them might surprise you.

Tree Removal & Heritage Trees

Tree removal in Decatur is strictly regulated under UDO §9.1.17. A permit is required to remove any protected tree (6+ inch DBH). Residential property owners may remove up to 3 healthy protected trees per 18-month period with a Tree Information Permit. Minimum 60% canopy coverage required for single-family lots.

Key details: Ordinance: UDO §9.1.17. Protected Trees: 6+ inch DBH, structurally sound. Residential Allowance: Up to 3 trees per 18-month period. Min. Canopy Coverage: 60% for single-family lots. Permit System: communitycore.com.

Unpermitted removal of protected trees: 2x canopy replacement required. Canopy loss fee based on annual tree benefit value.

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

Grass Height Limits

Decatur's Code of Ordinances prohibits excessively high grass and weeds as a nuisance. Grass and vegetation on residential lots must be maintained at a reasonable height (typically not to exceed 12 inches). Violations are enforced by Code Enforcement through the Public Works Department.

Key details: Max Height: 12 inches (general standard). Enforcement: Decatur Code Enforcement / Public Works. Remedy: Notice to mow; city may mow and bill. Report Violations: Public Works 678-553-6700.

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

Water Restrictions

Outdoor water use in Decatur is supplied by DeKalb County Watershed Management. Georgia Water Stewardship Act (2010) and EPD drought-level restrictions apply. During drought, outdoor watering may be restricted to specific days and hours. 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 Bans: EPD Level 1–4 restrictions apply.

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

Tree Trimming

Decatur has strict tree protection ordinances under UDO Article 9 (Environmental Protection), Section 9.1. Trimming of protected trees (6+ inch DBH) may require notification or a permit. Damaging a protected tree without authorization results in mandatory canopy replacement at 2x the area removed.

Key details: Protected Tree Size: 6 inches DBH or greater. Ordinance: UDO §9.1 (Tree Protection). Pruning Standard: ANSI A300 recommended. City Arborist: 678-553-6527. Unauthorized Damage: 2x canopy replacement required.

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. Decatur actively enforces its tree trimming requirements.

The Bottom Line

Decatur 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 Decatur, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

All of the above reflects Decatur'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.